Morganisms

Starting Again

2011-05-03T21:08:00.001-07:00

Time flies and then you get a big stupor of thought. I've been planning and thinking, and thinking and planning. I think I'm in the real planning now. So, we'll just see where I end up. Time to make some changes......

Jenn =)

My First Concert

2009-10-20T01:05:00.000-07:00

Well, while everyone was off getting rained on in Hillsboro, Oregon or listening to Elder Bednar, in person! I had my very first Concert!!

It was amazing to be performing with these other teachers. I have become more active in the Spokane Music Teacher's Association and that has opened doors for me. This summer I performed with other teachers at Becca's music camp and then this past weekend. These are associations that I am truley grateful for. I have learned so much and have been inspired to be more, for myself, my students and my collegues.

We played the Waltz from Faust. It's an Opera, but the waltz is the most famous and has been arranged for many different instruments. Our arrangement being for 2 painos, 8 hands. I played with 3 other ladies, my partner was Mary. We had so much fun! Although the other piano skipped a measure and threw Mary and I off, I hit all my runs and my trouble spots! That was good enough for me. I ordered a DVD and CD of it, and we had pictures taken just like professionals. Oh, wait, they consider themselves professionals! I felt honored to be considered their friend.

I wasn't as nervous as I thought I would be. Some of the others were. I decided that it was just like Recitals for my students. There is no more preparations that you can do, you perfrom how you practice and I felt it would turn out ok. And it was, thank goodness!!!

I played in the first half and the second half was one number. It was Rachmaninoff's Second Concerto, about 40 minutes long, duet. One piano playing the piano score and the second piano playing the orchestral reduction. It was fascinating to watch, anytime one part had measures of rest, the pianist would change, so there was a rotating exchange of about 12-15 performers, I should have counted but didn't.

I enjoyed playing with Mary a lot. She wants me to do a duet with her for the Food Bank Benefit that she organizesm for Second Harvest. That is sometime early next year I think. She is amazing to play with.

Jenn's Tomato Bisque

2009-10-09T23:31:00.000-07:00

Tonight was out dinner group. This is what I made and posted on out dinner group blog. I (and my family) really liked this, and I even have non-tomato eaters in my family.

"Yes, I called it my tomato bisque because I totally made this up after browsing my recipe books and "wingin' it".

5 lbs. Tomatos
Olive oil
1 tsp. dried basil
1 tsp. dried oregano
1 tsp. salt
1 tsp. black pepper
1/2 tsp. garlic powder
8 cups vegetable broth or bullion
3 cups Half & Half

Toppings: shredded chicken, saute'd mushrooms, cut avacados, cheese

1. Cut tomatos in quarters, and place open side down on a greased cookie sheet. Combine spices, sprinkle on top of tomatos. Drizzle with oilve oil. Bake in a 450 oven for 25-30 minutes.

2. When the edges start to brown and juices are being released, remove from oven. Let then cool slightly and remove skins.

3. In a large pot, combine vegetable broth with tomatos. Blend tomatos with hand blender or in batches in a blender or food processor. Slowly add half & half and blend together.

That is the bisque recipe. Then I treated it like a tortilla soup. Shredded chicken, saute'd mushroons, cut avacados, parmesan cheese. Place toppings in bottom of bowl, ladle soup on top. This does make a full pot, so if you have a small family, you might want to half it. I did discover, as my family ate the leftovers that it thickened up too, so yummy! Hope you all enjoyed it! Love, Jenn =)

Catch Up

2009-10-08T10:52:00.000-07:00

It has been a while and I decided that I can't play catch up, just start from where I am. We have had some great letters from Jacob and he was actually transferred today. His new area is Las Sendas, still part of Mesa. He sounds good and is excited to have a new area and people to work with.

My pictures for today are from this past weekend. Richy is marching with the Central Valley Marching Band. He is not really marching, he is in the pit and has to push a lot of equipment. I was ableto chaperone this weekend, which is always fun. These are the warmups for Pre-lims. Richy is sporting the new uniforms, they hang the gauntlets on the back, so they hook them on the back to help keep their form.

With his back to Mead's performance, he starts his focus time!

Richy and Brandon, on the field, ready to go.....

They performed well, not their best, but hopefully they got all the nerves shook out. CV scored ok, came in 2nd in the Prelims with Mead ahead by 1.2! As the kids finished, it started to sprinkle.....and sprinkle....and sprinkle....then rain...rain....rain....then pour...pour....pour. It poured for hours and in the end CV & Mead pulled out. It was too dangerous with our equipment and electronics, and the turf was flooding, I think Parker didn't want kids to get hurt (sprained ankled, or break something, damage instruments, etc) in Tri-cities, when we have bigger fish to catch later in the month. Pouring! Pouring! Pouring! Who knew it ever rained there.

Italian Seasoning

2009-08-13T23:30:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, I made homemade Mayo and used it in my homemade pasta salad and homemade ranch dressing. I made homemade Honey BBQ sauce, and chocolate chip cookies. Needless to say it was a busy day in the kitchen and I didn't take any pictures! It was a crazy day and I ended up with an entire load of dishes just from my messing around. Part of all the homemade stuff is out of necessity, but at least I enjoy it!

Today, as I'm making dinner, at least I thought to take pictures of the "already-done" homemade Italian Seasoning. This came about from a last minute need (ie, running out in the middle of another recipe), and being pretty sure I had the right combination on-hand, but not knowing what it all entailed. So, here is what I found:

Italian Seasoning

3 Tbs. dried basil

3 Tbs. dried oregano

3 Tbs. dried parsley

1 Tbs. garlic powder

1 tsp. onion powder

1 tsp. dried thyme

1 tsp. dried rosemary

1/4 tsp black pepper

1/4 tsp. red pepper flakes

Mix together in a spice grinder or put into a small bowl and crush with the back of a spoon. (http://www.recipezaar.com Recipe # 82770)

I love the look of all the spices! It smells so yummy! Like walking into an herb garden (no, I don't have one, but in my next house I will)!

Tips:

1. As you can see from the picture, I use a Mortar and Pestle. This recipe is actually too big, so I kind of do a few ingredients at a time and then blend together with a spoon.

2. Makes about 7 Tbs.

3. Great for Italian foods, pizza, etc. Also great for Oven Fried Zucchini. Slice your zucchini, dip into beaten egg, then bread crumbs mixed with Italian Seasoning, bake on a sprayed cookie sheet at 400 degrees for 25 - 27 minutes.

As a side note, I served the zucchini with my ranch dressing. Becca had to get in on the fun and take a picture of her cereal bowl. How creative and silly! Those of you who know her, will appreciate it the most. This is Classic Becca. Enjoy! Love, Jenn =)

DCI fun!

2009-08-10T16:07:00.001-07:00

Mallory & I spent the last 2 days in Indianapolis, IN, living out a dream of Mal's for her Graduation present. We were there for the DCI (Drum Corp International) Championship. Other than the jet-lag that killed us West coasters, it was a lot of fun.

Our parking was just a block from Lucas Oil Stadium, in some guys backyard. Hey, it was half of what the stadium parking was, what a deal! We watch Open & World Class Corps and in between walked to a park a few blocks away, where the corps warm up. It was a FanFair! Booths of the local attractions where we made our own fan buttons, a free cup from a local university, free frizbee, pen, stuff like that.

Mallory looks excited!!! We met a couple who had come from England just for Finals. That is dedication! We also met some old cronies that meet together every year, parents of kids in different Corps, a lady that wouldn't stop talking during the shows, and a local couple that only stayed for the first half (if we had known, we would have told them it gets better at the end!).

Our favorite Cavie DrumLine! Mallory is friends with the Center Snare, although there are 8, he is on the left (the short one). He graduated from CV and visits during camp sometimes. We found the venue where they practiced and caught a little bit of that. The corps were spread all over the area and we tried to find ones that were close and by the time we got there, they would be finished. But, we did get a little of the Cavies.

Mallory took almost 300 pictures, so I won't bore you with all of them, I'm sure she will pick the best ones and post them onto her Facebook, if anyone is interested it them.

This is the "V" of the Vanguard. Very famous, usually the end of their show has the cymbal line flashing the "V", this year they ended with a Guard member being lifted and her standing on the cymbals. No "V", so this was the only one we got. =(

And the final retreat.

It was a great trip, I think we had White Castles everyday, if not twice! At least I grabbed an apple from the Hotel, otherwise we would have officially eaten junk the entire trip. I slept for 9 hours when I got home, then had a full nights sleep. It felt great, now that I'm back on track for the week. Love, Jenn =)

Summer Relaxing

2009-08-05T23:43:00.000-07:00

I got some great pictures at the lake this summer. It has been fun experimenting with the settings on my camera and fussing with different ideas for projects. My wheels are turning, I just have to get caught up on them. I always feel behind. But here are a few for your enjoyment.

Look at this cute little buttercup, just begging to have her picture taken!!

And this daisy...

Mystery flower? Reminds me of the Cockle-shell nursery rhyme....

And this beauty!!

Can you see the dragon fly on the twig?

Then he flew around for a while, and I got this one, with my Macro-zoom!

Got some of Becca playing and she noticed........

A Woodpecker hole, high in the tree!

And who should peek out of his home?

When he flew around I got a shot of him. He wasn't very cooperative in turning around to get his best side!

I have really enjoyed taking picture with my new camera from my birthday. It has been fun, I have a few more sunset pictures, but I need to get them all in the same file! Love, Jenn =)

14 & 18

2009-06-27T23:33:00.000-07:00

It has happened. Another birthday, May 11. Yes, I have 2 children who share the same birthday exactly 4 years apart. Trust me, you can't plan that, as all my mom-friends know. Every year Mal and Richy have cake together.

It has been a journey of different ways to celebrate. Richy has moved from crackers, egg & milk free cake, real cake, and in 3rd grade a giant chocolate chip cookie. Mallory has had a real cake for most of her years. In high school she has had variety, DQ ice cream cake, assorted cheese cakes, and this year, yep, a giant chocolate chip cookie. Nice for mom, 2 kids agreeing.

Soon, the candles will over-take the cookie. I'm glad they like each other. They do have fun together.

Any unique birthday situations in your families? Love, Jenn =)

Track April 30

2009-06-21T18:10:00.000-07:00

Richy doing the high jump. He did pretty good, he has good form, body-type and all, but needs help with technique and of course patience.

Getting the baton passed to him. Not as good as the first race.

Getting caught up, Love, Jenn =)

Prom!

2009-06-17T16:29:00.000-07:00

Mal was so excited to go to Prom this year. It was on April 25th, the theme was "Masquerade". So, the black and white dress Mal found was perfect! There were a few snafus with a date, but her friend Mitchell Dumais came through for her! He is a Junior and the Jr. Drum Major past year, and a great friend. They also call him "Nigel"........he-he, band kids.

Mal and her friends, Courtney Wasata (left) and Randi Wilson. Their dresses were really pretty, Mal was the only one who was warm with the freezing weather that night. The whole gang. Senior girls with the Junior boys, Courtney & Ian, Mal & Nigel, Randi & Shaun. They had a lot of fun. They went to Couer d' Alene for dinner, the floating restaurant, The Cedars and then the dance at the Fox Theater. She had a lot of fun and wasn't worried about her dress falling down, being able to breathe, or being cold!

Gotta love my Mormon girl! Love, Jenn =)

I'm back in the Blog World!!!

2009-06-14T16:40:00.000-07:00

Well, it seems like forever since I've checked in. My friends are like, "where are you?" Life has been so busy and now that school is getting out on Wed, (yes, thank you Winter snow and too many snow days that we are now paying for....) I can start to get caught up on the 439 pictures I just downloaded to my computer. I put them in a "Clear Camera" folder and will post as I move them to the right file. If anyone has a great way to organize their pictures, I'm up for suggestions. Upcoming posts will be about Graduation and additional family (I just noticed my dad added all his the pictures he took to his file on my computer - way to go Dad!!!), Prom, more Track, Birthdays, Lake (bumble-bees, geese, turtles, & sunsets along with a few water sports and boat drivers!), and of course, catching up Jacob's Mission Blog, which has been neglected also. Hope you will tune in over the next little while........... But, on to the burning question in a lot your minds........

"What ever happened to your cups, Jenn?"

Funny you should ask me about that, and I have a picture to prove it!! If any of you need a refresher on the subject, you can check out the history here. Feel free to read the comments and suggestions offered by all.

Now, I've been home from Utah about 3 weeks, my dear sister is over for dinner before I take her to the airport one lovely, Sunday evening. She asked me about how my adventure was going and if I had tried any of the suggestions that had been offered. I replied, I hadn't had the opportunity, I was going to try that week, now that we were home from taking Jacob to the MTC. She pickes up my stuck mess.........

and "POP"

they come right apart!

No, kidding......we laughed so hard! So, I am not very strong and my engineer sister is way smarter than me! Must be all in the wrist, the twist, pressure applied at the right angle, I don't know.....But, the cups are safe, not broken or tossed, back in the cupboard with a good chuckle! Love, Jenn =)

And the winner is...........

2009-04-24T21:23:00.000-07:00

Richy is running track this year. This is his last year in Jr. High, so he has more opportunities for events. It was FREEZING COLD for our typical Spokane Spring afternoon, with periods of rain (and a burst of sun). Richy on the right with his friend Jay during the burst of sun.Mike was there the whole, long 4 hours, as they slowly went through the events. As a side note: I know it sounds weird but Richy is allergic to the cold. When he is not warm enough outside in the cold, the histamines in his cells start reacting, his skin breaks out in welts and gets terribly itchy. So, Richy starts to have a reaction, goes to sit in the car with Mike to warm up. While he is there, he misses the calls to register for the field events. He was supposed to do the high jump, but missed it. We'll try for next week. After I taught my lessons (and moved the rest to Tues until track is over) I made it in time to watch him during the running events. His races for this meet were the 800m and the 4x400 relay. On your mark, get set, go! Here he is crossing the finish line after running around the track twice. He came in 3rd over-all, 1st for his school, out of 24 kids. Awesome!!

Next, is the 4x400 relay, where each runner runs one lap. Here is Richy getting the baton to run the last leg. There were 3 teams.

And the winner is...........RICHY!!! WOO HOO!!! It was so exciting, they were behind the first 2 laps, the 3rd lap they were able to catch and pass, and Richy put on the steam and got a great lead. Richy told us after that he was expecting to be passed any second, because that is what always happens as he approaches the finish line. But after he won, he turned around and the next guy was just rounding the corner. Richy was so excited!

He had planned on coming home with us, but he wanted to ride the bus home with the team now. He is so Mr. Pop-U-lar! There were kids saying hi all the time, then he turns to us and says, "I don't know who that is!" But, he is always kind and polite to them. Such a great kid! Tune in next week..........Love, Jenn =)

The Sound of Music

2009-04-13T22:14:00.001-07:00

My Dad is the best. He has done it again. I think he sends me links, just so I can post them (hehe, just kidding!) He must have remembered that the Sound of Music is my all-time, bestest, comfort musical! I love it. I was in it when I was in High School at the Community Theater. I was only a postulate (beginner nun, wanna-be), but I loved doing the musicals. He sent me this link to an awesome video of one of the most recognized songs. There is an article about the video first then the video is embedded. They were right you can't help but smile, and we all could do a little more of that. Enjoy! Love, Jenn =) The Sound of Music

Spring Break and then some

2009-04-12T20:10:00.000-07:00

Time has flown by, it seems Spring Break was so long ago, but Jacob has just left. As he has mentioned in one of his letters, it's has something to do with the space time continuum. I'm a little slow on the draw these days. The day after we got home from SLC, I fell and broke my elbow. At least for today, it's in a temporary splint til we see new x-rays tomorrow. So, let's see how long it takes me to post......

We had such a great time in Utah. The short version....

Happy Birthday to Mike!

Sunday Night Jam,

Met with my friend Tammy, we grew up in the same home ward during our high school years..... Richy and Avery before pictures.

Becca and Avery before pictures, Avery was a favorite on the trip......

Blurry, candid, but reflects the mood of the trip...........

The girls being silly.........Zach, hiding.......stinking cute!

Looking toward the temple, from the 10th floor of the Joseph Smith Memorial Building. You can see the Conference Center across the street to the right.

I have some great mom-kind-of snaps, flowers and such. I'll posy those later, along with the update on the glasses by the sink. Love, Jenn =) took 4 hours, minus facebook and other Internet searches probably 1-1/2, now onto 4 days of mail, ahhhhhhh!!!

First Day in Salt Lake

2009-03-28T23:24:00.000-07:00

Oh, we had such a long drive. It is so hard to get out of town at a decent hour. The ideal was 2 pm, we aimed for 3, and the actual was 5:30. So, we planned to use some points and stay in Pocatello, ID. Mike drove to Missoula, then we switched, after we turned south, I told Mike if he wanted to drive again he had to sleep. I am a late night person (as you can tell from my late-night posts, if you keep track), so I got us all the way to Pocatello. Now it is 3:30, and Mike, under normal circumstances, would be getting up to help a friend with a paper route, decides to drive us all the in. Jacob apparently didn't sleep at all. Becca woke up about Ogden, so Mike had a nice conversation with her about our drive, pointing out temples along the way, and different landmarks from when we lived in Kaysville when she was first born.

After arriving at 6, we slept until 11. We went to my in-laws cute little (and it is little), one-bedroom, missionary apartment. It is near City Creek Park where we had a few adventures. The kids would throw a stick or piece of wood and watch it run down the creek, catch it and then run back and do it all over again. (hehe - no electronics!)

Then they began goofing around having fun with the man-made islands in the middle of the man-made preservation of the creek. They are able to find fun everywhere!

One of our favorite things to do in SLC is go to Sizzler. I know, some of you might think that's weird, but we love it!

I had the kids stop and serenade their dad for a moment outside, with our famous Birthday Song! By the way, he turned 43 today, he thought he was 44! Memory problems early? I missed Richy's air-guitar, but it was great dinner and it was fun to laugh at the dinner table one last time.

We drove down the street of our old house in Sugarhouse. The kids were laughing at stories and reminiscing. Poor Becca, was hearing some stories for the first time, as she was an 0-6 months at this house. We commented quite a few times how the mountains are all of a sudden there. We forget they are then and then when we look "up", it surprises us. So, we grabbed a few shots

and then turned west to the sunset and off to Kelly's house for a late visit. Ready for Day 2? Hope I can get it done! Love, Jenn =)

Trouble......

2009-03-25T01:44:00.001-07:00

on my counter!

My Sister in Law is going to start laughing at me.........I have these 2 cups. My dear children (don't know who), in doing their chores, and being obedient, put away, and stacked, 2 glasses........while they were still warm from the dishwasher. They are stuck. Stuck. Stuck! I won't mention how many months they have been sitting there, it doesn't really matter. I really like my full, complete set, that I have been able to keep together for almost 2 years. I have tried under running water, putting ice water in the top....

using my great science theories, ice water in the top and warm/hot water in the bottom, all to no avail. If anyone has suggestions, besides my sister in laws (which is to throw them away and forget about it - I do love you though, for trying to help me out of my misery), I would really appreciate it. I am going to set them on my counter until I get back from Utah. Then try one more time my tricks and any new tricks that have been suggested. Then, shhhh,

I may have to throw them away? Thanks, Love, Jenn =)

Who is that weed?

2009-03-21T00:04:00.000-07:00

Richy that is.....

look at how tall he is.......they are standing against the gym wall goofing around with Mike after Becca's music concert. He is officially taller then Mom. (MIke's shoulder, Mallory, Jacob, Richy)This one is not all that great, but I love the expressions on their faces! They are happy in the moment.

I like this one, you know the saying how dogs and thier owners start looking alike?

20/DSCN0160.JPG" border=0>hehe..............Love to all! Jenn =)

ps. This is actually a picture 3 months old of Zeke, but I have tried for a week to capture this look....he's just too antsy and rambunxious these days.

Ever feel like...................

2009-03-20T23:09:00.000-07:00

Ever feel like time has slipped away? The whirlwind of family, appointments, commitments, callings, concerts, mission preparations,? Life got so crazy that all of a sudden a month has gone by and you haven't posted? Oh, no, that never happens to any of my friends. Everyone is able to post at least once a week, if not more, with me being the exception. Can't believe a month has gone by. Slowly I'll get caught up.....because I have pictures, pictures, and pictures of all the events. At least I remembered to take them most of the time.

So, I have since organized them, and some of my thoughts. I am going to start with the music events of the month. This is the most. Feel free to skip, scan or ignore parts of this post. This is part of my journal keeping too, so you get all the random thoughts that go with it! (There are 6 items)

#1. Becca had her 4th grade music program on Feb. 23rd. She is so serious when it comes to music. She is intent on counting, watching the teacher, helps others stay together. She was also able to participate in the Marimba Club.

Her teacher Mrs. Franks and Bec.

#2. The next week, on March 2nd, Becca played participated in adjudications. This is where she has 2 contrasting piano pieces, memorized, and plays them for a Master Teacher. She is always very nervous. It's like she plays and then they tell you all the things that are wrong. Yes, but no. It's like a mini-lesson and they give you pointers and ways to improve the piece, new skills to practice, etc.This teacher is a professor locally, somewhere in the state, or west. There were 4 in Spokane during the week, they adjudicate for 3 days and then a concert on Thursday. We had a young guy named, Christopher Haun, from the University of Montana-Missoula. He was really nice.

I video taped the whole segment, so I don't have a photo of her playing for him, just warming up in the warm-up room.

#3. Then that on Tues and Wed, Becca and Mallory played at CV Days at the Mall. The Central Valley School District has displays from each school (Elem, Middle, High) throughout the Mall and then most of the bands, orchestras, choirs, etc. perform during the afternoons and evening. Mallory plays the French Horn and then takes a few songs, runs back and plays percussion, drums, etc. She loves playing different instruments and is good at all of them. I think she is planning some kind of music in her future. I think the next week she also had a concert at the school.

#4. I had the opportunity to take a friend to the Barry Manilow concert. She raised her kids and cleaning her house, blasting Barry throughout the house! She can't drive at night and was looking for someone to drive her. So, I volunteered to drive and take her for pie or dinner before. We were so excited to go and the day before......it was cancelled! Barry decided he needed to rehearse for a Vegas show, rather than come to Spokane. What? Those are not cheap tickets! So, now it has been rescheduled for October 23, 7 months away. Oh well, moved it on my calendar, right in the middle of marching season.

#5. I had my make-up piano recital last week. I started out the year with about 17 students, but economics have played a part and I have lost 3 families which is 8 students. The Christmas Recital was scheduled right after the big storm in December, I had to cancel it. The parking lot was just starting to get shovelled out about 30 minutes before it would have started. There would have been no way to get into the building to even have the recital, let alone families being able to get out of their houses. So, then after being off for 3 weeks, it's like starting from scratch for a recital.

The kids did great! They all worked hard. Some were awarded Minute Club certificates and them we had Practice Pizza, for their practicing goals. I played "Moonlight Sonata" by Beethoven, 1st movement. One of my favorites and my mom's, too. #6. Last but not least, and one of my favorite music moments of the last month, the girls sang at Jacob's mission farewell. I had picked up a songbook from TOFW (coming up post), and in it was the song One Voice. We had used it at girls camp a few years ago and has just stuck in my brain. It is one of Mallory's favorites and is now Becca's. That is about half of the events I am going to post about. These I could combine with a theme. Thanks for hanging in through them all.....more to come in the next few days! Love to all, Jenn =)

Homemade Oreos

2009-02-23T22:05:00.001-08:00

Becca made cookies...........she is a great cook! Last week was Achievement Days (lds term for activities that help girls become better people, family members, teach life skills, etc. in a fun way! Think Scouts, the mormon way for girls.) They made Homemade Oreos. Can you say "YUM!!" any faster? The first batch almost didn't make it to the next morning so she could take some to her teacher. Sunday she made another batch with the help of her cousin, Logan. We have a new staple in our house, these will be made often!

Homemade Oreos 1 pkg. Devil's Food Cake Mix 2 eggs 2/3 cup shortening Mix together. Roll into 1-inch balls. Bake at 375 on an ungreased cookie sheet 7-8 minutes. Leave on sheet for 2 minutes and them cool on rack. Put 2 cookies together with Cream Cheese frosting. Frosting: 8 oz. cream cheese 1/2 cup butter 1 tsp. vanilla 4 1/4 - 4 1/2 cups powdered sugar

Tips:

1. One of the batches we used one devil's cake mix and one white. Still yum!

2. I have 4 cookie sheets, so the baking can fly sooo much faster.

3. Make sure you set some aside for your husband because they will all be gone before he gets home.

Enjoy! Love, Jenn =)

Fat Cyclist

2009-02-20T19:28:00.000-08:00

My Dad & I watch the Tour de France every July. Sometimes he comes out to Spokane from St. Louis and we watch in my hot, non-AC house. It records early in the morning (3-5 am) and then after a relaxing morning watching the birds in the backyard, reading the paper, etc. we sit down with our spread sheets, computers, drinks and the remote! It's fun and enjoyable. To prepare for July, California has a race - the Tour of California. They have been racing all week. Dad sent me a funny blog entry a guy posted regarding one the prominent commentators, Bob Roll, getting his head shaved. A deal he made with his fans to raise $$$ for Lance Armstrong's cancer foundation. Very funny and I have added the link on the left, so I can check it every day. One of my hobbies, WATCHING cycling - not participating. . . . yet. I like to think about it. Love, Jenn =)

Picture Tag

2009-02-19T17:27:00.000-08:00

TAG, I'm it! My friend, Lene, over at Embrace_the_chaos did this cute entry. So, I grabbed my camera and took these pictures in 2 minutes! Be quick! Take 5 random pictures around your house, no cleaning!

Here are a few of their suggested ideas:

Room that stays the cleanest
Work in progress
What someone else is doing right now
Favorite decor or display
Something that represents your current life
Favorite relaxing spot
Something hand-me-down

My random pictures:

Room that stays the cleanest. . . . . Living Room My current life . . . . . This is the view, 5 hours a week, teaching piano, notice the stickers, flashcards, timer, metronome, and definitely the Kleenex this time of year.

One of my Favorite Decor. . . . . .My Salt and Pepper Collection - Disney, bears, elephants (they have magnets on the end of their trunks), Hawaii, garage sales, some from around the world (France, Amsterdam, England) that were given as gifts, I have never left the country.

Part of my current life/relaxing spot. . . . . Part of the kitchen counter, remnants of breakfast, cookbook open, and of course the warped counter from the heat of the crock pot.

Something someone else is doing . . . . . . Chloe about to get in trouble for being on the counter, Mental Note: wash new marble rolling pin before use.

TAG, YOU'RE IT!!!!! Love, Jenn =)

ps - Be sure to link back and tell me you've made a post. would love to see what everyone is doing!

Favorite Quilt Book

2009-02-17T00:21:00.000-08:00

I spent the yesterday (um, 1.5 hours?) at the church attending our Enrichment Quilt Group. We were working on a wall-hanging project with a changeable panel for each month. Ambitious, I know, but it's always nice to have goals and feel like you're accomplishing something. Pushes me a little.

So, amidst the actual sewing, you have to chat, chat, chat...... Some quilt days, I can get a TON done, and other days, I chat WAY to much and get nothing done. It was a definitely chat day. I like visiting with the sisters and hanging out while I pin, trace, cut, etc. I did get a little done, and I finished the step tonight while watching TV. One conversation included my quilt book.....

I really like this book because it has great pictures! (we all like books with pictures!) It is a great reference with step-by-step instruction, tips for everything, spiral-bound to lay flat, lots of other great things. The main reason I bought the book was the last step! The last step in quilting is the binding, the last little edge piece that frames the quilt. Joining the ends (quilt-lingo, work with me), is always confusing for me, and I always end up at my teacher's house asking, "What.....?". She has even photocopied directions and pictures for me each time.....that I lose. As I was wandering through the craft section B&N a while back I came across this great book. On pages 221-223 are great pictures, step-by-step, on how to join the ends! WooHoo!!!Worth every penny, just for those 3 pages. =)

Some of the gals wanted to see my book, so I told them I would post it. Here are the particulars: "Quilting The Complete Guide", by Darlene Zimmerman, published by krause publications. http://www.krausebooks.com/ Amazon or eBay would be great sources, plus I'm sure we could find a discount somewhere with the economy. Happy quilting! Love, Jenn =)

Happy Valentines Day!

2009-02-15T00:01:00.000-08:00

HAPPY VALENTINES DAY!!!

from the Morgan's

Becca was in what I call, "Project-mode". She gets an idea into her head and then bugs you until you comply, ropes you into the project, then have a total great time!

Happy you! Happy thoughts! Happy Days! May the sun shine on you today Mike bought the girls their own roses They were almost as tall as Becca!

I got the best card and my own frosted roses. That's what I call them, roses whose petals edges are a different color. Hope everyone had a great day and received a lot of extra love! And according to Mallory, why have an official day when it should be every day? I agree, remember to love always. Love, Jenn =)

Mormon Commercial

2009-02-12T13:51:00.000-08:00

I stumbled across this (you know, you wander through blogs and sites until you have no idea how you got there - and if you will ever find it again!). I thought about how many times my families imagination has gotten carried away at the dinner table. We have never gotten this extreme, but I love hearing my family laugh together. It makes me smile and I think all is right in the world today. But.......I am the one who does say, "What are you guys doing?" Love, Jenn =)

Ranch Dressing

2009-02-09T23:08:00.001-08:00

3/4 cup Mayonaise

1/4 cup Sour Cream

2 Tb. dried parsley

1 tsp. minced onions

1 clove garlic, minced

1/4 tsp. salt

1/4 tsp. freshly ground pepper

2 Tb. parmesan cheese

1/2-3/4 cup buttermilk

Mix all ingredients except buttermilk in a small bowl. Slowly blend in buttermilk. Chill at least 2 hours.

TIPS

1. Don't use Miracle Whip, too sour and won't taste right.

2. I use this big jar of minced garlic from Costco, 1 large tsp is perfect for me!

3. Find better light in the house for pictures!

4. Enjoy! Love, Jenn =)

Long Week......Long Post =)

2009-02-09T21:24:00.000-08:00

Well, we have had a whirl-wind week! I was so tired, when I was finally done on Saturday I made chocolate-chip cookies and bread! Then I have had trouble uploading pictures from my camera, so......Mike has been helping me figure it out and getting ready for the coming week at the same time.

The boys have been fairly quiet this week. Jacob has been working on making his lists for his mission, running errands and such. We see him on and off, but he is pretty much taking charge (in his way). We are trying to figure out how to get everyone to SLC. Richy is being Richy, working on homework and being funny. I have to stop and consciously think, "he's teasing". He can be really funny, but sometimes it catches me off guard and I have to give him "the-LOOK", if you know what I mean. I asked him to help me with the cookies on Sat so we could spend time together, he decided it was ok to hang out with his mom!

The girls had the busiest week in a long time, and it hit them both at the same time. Mallory had an FBLA (Future Business Leaders of America) competition on Wed, then was totally shocked when she won first place in a category about decision making. Wow, she was so excited! Got a plaque and everything...

She gets to go to the State competition next. Now, if we can get those awesome decision making skills applied to college, hehe. She ended up having what we are starting to call a "crash-day", happens about once every 3-4 weeks, when her body/heart/energy, etc. finally tell her brain "ENOUGH, I'M DONE" and shuts down until she gets plenty of sleep. Saturday, was the Solo and Ensemble Competition. She had 4 entries: Vocal Duet, Horn Trio, Percussion Ensemble (marimba), and a Brass Quintet. She worked very hard preparing for all of these, extra practicing after school, at our house, coordinating multiple schedules, etc. So, the results there, the Brass Quintet got a Superior rating (1) and is going on to State (after one kid forgot his music and a fiasco there). The Horn Trio also received a Superior rating (1), but are the 1st Alternate for State. The Percussion Ensemble was frustrating, you would think 16 percussionist could count? Not always, they received a 2. And her vocal duet ended up being disqualified because of song choice. She sang "For Good" from WICKED with a friend, had it approved by her band teacher, but we are not sure of the exact rules. Mr. Parker is felt really, really bad and is looking into scores, comments, etc to see what might have been. We told her to be proud of what she accomplished and that she benefited from all her preparations.

Becca had piano 4 nights this week. She usually has 1 lesson on Fridays. Her teacher is fabulous and amazing! This is the 3rd year she has had a benefit, "Around the World in 88 Keys", to raise $$$ for the Spokane Community Partners. Becca was singing in a choir with younger students. 1 night group lesson, 1 night rehearsal on stage, 1 night sound check, and one night performance. It was totally amazing the other local professionals that were there. Piano, vocal, ballet, Professors, Celtic, Thai, but after an hour and a half and just getting to Intermission? we left. Becca was so tired and she had already done her part. Good little trooper.

I have been busy with my new calling. With a huge boundary change up, there are a lot of people who don't know each other, callings have been left empty because they moved to another ward, and if you came into a new ward you don't have a calling. So, matching up callings, and organizing from scratch a Visiting Teaching/Home Teaching Route is a HUGE undertaking. I have been talking with a lot of sisters this week! I feel like I am on the phone a lot more now, too. I have missed getting on line, just too tired, checking out the mail, facebook, writing the blogs, music stuff, my favorite sites. I did find time to make a new recipe, homemade Ranch Dressing. It was yummy! Recipe in the previous post, I posted that first so it would come after. Sly aren't I?

The animals are getting along better. Zeke is still full of energy. The 3 black cats are starting to get along. Cocoa will tolerate Chloe because she is so mellow, but poor DM, Cocoa has no patience with her yet. We did catch a moment when they were all eating out of the same bowl.

Now, that is progress! Cocoa is also willing to come out into the main rooms during the day and eat, knowing that Zeke is far enough away. He tends to surprise her once in a while, but we give Cocoa the right-of-way. She is after all over 60 in cat years!

Hope fully in a few weeks, I will be able to get back in the swing of things. in the meantime, there will be random posts and news. GOT to get organized! Love, Jenn =)

New Format

2009-02-02T15:38:00.000-08:00

You can tell, I changed my format from 2 columns to 3. I think I like it, I want to like it, but needs some tweeking! (Reminds me of You've Got Mail! one of my fav movies) It wasn't hard to do, but took me most of the weekend, in between my families schedule. Let me know what you think. I'm on the fence post. Too cluttered? Or have a plain colored background? Thanks, Love, Jenn =)

Jacob's Mission

2009-01-30T03:01:00.000-08:00

Jacob got his call!

I finally got it done! Uploaded the video, took over 2 hours, then decided to cancel that and go the YouTube route (much faster!). Got that done, then lost the rest of the post. Had to start over, but at least the video was done. I'm going to route you over to Jacob's Mission Blog. There is also a link to the left. I thought there might be a few that would only be interested in keeping up on Jacob's experiences and not necessarily by thoughts on food, music, the new pets, the other kids, or any other random thought I may have. It is still in the beginnings and pretty raw. It was a spur of the moment thought, I hope to get it cleaned up and looking better in the next few days. I hope you are only interested in the video and pictures. Enjoy! Love, Jenn =)

Bottle Blowing

2009-01-26T23:40:00.000-08:00

This is one of my favorite music commercials. I'm sure you have played with a bottle, blowing across the top just right. As you drink, the pitch changes, (it gets lower). My dad sent me this link quite a while ago and I use it once in a while teaching. Sometimes, when the kids come having had a bad day, their mind is wandering, can't focus.......I revert to a few minutes of music appreciation. YouTube is a great place to find unique clips. But this commercial, and the site, is all in the promotion. It is such a novel idea, and I really love watching it and behind the scenes. It goes along with chatting with Eckert Preu, just love the full orchestra. Enjoy! Love, Jenn =) http://vbsymphony.com.au/view/ If you are a little squirmy about it being an Australian Beer Company, remember this is music appreciation! ~ Wouldn't this be fun with a Primary song or in a Group Lesson? Just had an idea!

Yum! Bread.......

2009-01-25T22:29:00.000-08:00

Found another use for my new rolling pin. ^.^ I made bread tonight and thought I would share it with everyone. It is a simple french bread recipe that I have stumbled across and have made a few changes.

Ingredients:

2 TB yeast

1/2 cup warm water

2 cups hot water

3 TB splenda

1 TB salt

5 TB Shortening, melted, or vegetable oil

6 cups flour, unsifted and divided

3 egg whites, beaten

1/2 cup sesame seeds

In a small cup dissolve yeast in the warm water. In a large bowl, combine hot water, sugar, salt, shortening and 3 cups of the flour. Beat well with wooden spoon, or in a large mixer using a dough attachment. Stir in dissolved yeast. Add remaining 3 cups of flour, mixing well until blended.

Leave spoon/dough hook in batter, allowing dough to rest for 10 minutes. Stir again vigorously, allowing dough to rest another 10 minutes. Repeat until dough has been stirred 5 times.

On floured board (counter), turn out dough and knead once or twice until it is lightly covered with flour. Divide dough in half. Roll each half into rectangles, about 9x12 inches.

Starting at the long edge, roll loosely, like a jelly roll, sealing the edge. Place roll, seam side down on a large baking sheet, arranging so both loaves will fit on one sheet. Gash the top of each loaf diagonally with sharp knife, 3-4 times, then brush with beaten egg while and sprinkle with sesame seeds.

Allow loaves to rise 30 minutes. Bake at 400 degrees for 35 minutes, or until golden brown. I let them cool about 20 minutes before slicing.

You can see the butter melting on top...yum! You can also see dh trying to sneak his hand in for a taste!

Strategy Tips:

1. I love using my Kitchen Aid with the dough attatchment. I can knead, but haven't done it enough, so it scares me. Silly, but true!

2. These loaves I used 3 cups whole wheat and 3 cups white flour.

3. I place a sticky note on the cupboard and use tally marks to count the mixing and resting cycles. I can get side-tracked easily!

4. Once again, I can not believe how easy it was to roll out the dough with my marble pin! I am starting to think, "How in the world did I ever live without this!"

5. I forgot to put the gashes in the top of my loaves. Running out the door to the airport!

6. The bread rose almost an hour because of the round-trip to the airport. Still turned out great. Just in case you get side-tracked in the rising step - it can go longer!

7. Enjoy! Love, Jenn =)

My New Toy

2009-01-23T21:55:00.000-08:00

This is my new toy! Mike let me get it for my birthday, I got it from a great little website for baking and cooking. They are located in Rigby, ID. If you want to browse around you can look here: www.preparedpantry.com/index.html Hope you enjoy it! Anyhoo, I'm still learning how to use my new camera and other photo techniques.

One of my favorite things is the marbling patterns in the marble! I know there must be a better way to say that, but I'm tired tonight. It sits above my sink on a ledge looking into the living room. I do my dishes and look at the colors and patterns. Then I rotate it a little and look some more! Ooooo, pretty!!So, my first adventure was pizza! I got this recipe from Liz's blog. I made it for lunch yesterday with my own variations (more about that in another post, when I get some other recipes going). I liked the weight of it, the pressure seemed to be more uniform than my old-stand-by wooden rolling pin. I instantly could tell a difference in my work load and the results on the dough.

Nice!!!! Now I need to think of other things to do with my new toy! Pie......cookies.......biscuits? Any others? I can think all I want, now, just to find the time.

Oh, and the pizza was yummy, too! Thanks, Liz!

Love, Jenn =)

Music Monday (on Tuesday)

2009-01-21T01:09:00.000-08:00

This year (actually September - but that is the "New Year" as far as school and music students are concerned), I joined the Spokane Music Teachers Association, SMTA. I have enjoyed it tremendously! I have been able to rub shoulders with fabulous people and have learned a lot. Along with our monthly agenda for business and student stuff, there is a small recital by a member, 2-3 pieces, which totally intimidate me, and then a presenter from the membership or community on a variety of different topics. For January's meeting we had this man -

Who is he, you say? He is Eckart Preu, the Conductor of the Spokane Symphony. He was delightful, entertaining and very charming (oh, there are a LOT of old ladies in this group). He talked about his growing up in East Germany before the wall fell and what it was like to not really know what was happening as a child. Growing up in a music boarding school and being indoctrinated to his government and not having anything but music to express himself. He also talked about different teachers he has had through the years and things he learned from each one of them. Just fascinating! It was a highlight for me, in my emerging music world! =) Jenn

Container Tips

2009-01-17T20:03:00.000-08:00

I just came across in one of my newsletter's a great article about containers that we use in our home, ie. Tupperware, Glad, Rubbermaid. Are they worth the money? It talks about how they compared each, including when you might re-use a sour cream or yogurt container (uh-hum, no one does that at this house!). It was great, plus a quick read too. See how you are doing. Enjoy! http://link.ixs1.net/s/lt?id=68693207&si=x213034973&pc=o2009&ei=t302977

Music Monday....

2009-01-07T22:27:00.000-08:00

This is my dad. He is pretty cool in his old age. Yes, dad, you are getting old. He likes music. Growing up we would listen to the radio. I learned to appreciate Big Band, jazz (although that still is a little hard), and Barbershop Singing. I still prefer men's voices to women's.

When he visits, he likes to sit with Becca and play the piano. They do Chopsticks, Heart n' Soul, and any version in between they come up with. When you play music with others, there is a give and take. Where you are able to listen, with your heart n' soul. The last time for me was when I accompanied Lara and Shannon Stott after Chritmas. They were singing an arrangement of Silent Night. It was originally a solo, but Lara wrote an alto part that added so much more. They have amazing voices, and as siblings blend! There was music, emotion, and words. It was beautiful!

This is Dad and Becca making music. Sharing in the give and take. I love to see them sit together and laugh, experiment, and have fun. Becca has picked up some jazz, composition and improvization from music camp. (see earlier post from the summer)

Mallory joined in and it was interesting to hear her do counter-melodies, harmonies, and play off Dad's rhythms. It was fun.

Memories made and now documented.

So, on another note. I am learning that I really need to plan time, and thoughts for this. I have about 3 ready for my music, and none for SB. I may have to put that off. I am eating healthier since the new year, if you don't count the Jack-in-the-Box for breakfast or the giant frosted chocolate chip cookie we made for FHE. Doesn't help that every time I look at lettuce, my stomach turns. What is up with that! It has never happened before, so I am not actually going to worry about it today. (Got the Tera-syndrome going on!)

And the last note of the day. Most that read know about the new Stake changes. It is really amazing to know that there has been so much growth in our Stake that there was a need to create a new Ward. As they carve that Ward into the map, all boundaries of the 6 remaining Wards were adjusted. We ended up in the Belle Terre Ward, the Ward of my in-laws, the Ward of Mike's youth, and the Ward with the Temple. Every Ward lost half of their membership or more and gained half back from Wards on either side. HUGE changes for each and every Ward and family. I love our Stake Presidency, I know that these changes were not decided lightly or without the Lord's help. Change is hard, but with it comes growth. Love, Jenn =)

New Year, New Changes, New Pets

2009-01-07T21:58:00.000-08:00

It's a New Year! As my first entry of the year I have some new goals, just like I hope you have. One of them is doing a little more on my blog. I have been inspired from other friends and think I might give it a go for some changes. So, I have come up with a few new features, some new formats, and please comment. One feature is going to be South Beach Saturdays. I have renewed my commitment to loose weight and be healthy. I love to cook, so I will be sharing SB friendly recipes that I like (or maybe I didn't) and then I can get better with my food photos. (My dad & hubby got be this great little camera and so now there is no excuse). I have a few other ideas for posting new features and then odds and ends as needed. So, hence, the title, New Year, New Changes, and.... New pets! Becca and Mallory have these cute sisters. Chloe is on the right, she is all black. Mallory's is the kitty on the left. With her white paws, white tummy, white ring around her neck, and the cute white whiskers against her black face, Mal named her DM, short for Drum Major. They are hilarious! Because they are sisters, they sleep and play, sleep and play. Poor Cocoa, our 10 yo cat, is having a very hard time adjusting, it's been 2 weeks and we still don't see her very often. She hides a lot, but we are very loving and kind to her and Mallory work with her along with teaching the kittens to be a little more respectful. And if you didn't think we were already crazy adding 2 kittens with an older stubborn barn cat....we added Zeke!

Yes, Zeke is a rambunctious, smart, sweet, stinky, Lab/Border Collie. When we get him house trained, he will be an awesome companion. Santa brought him early on Christmas Eve because he was a little too rowdy for the sleigh! He's mainly Richy's puppy, but we all have to take part in the training as we need to be people trained too. Maybe I can think of a feature for the pets. Anyway, Happy New Year and I hope everyone can think of one thing to improve on and make positive changes. Love, Jenn

Winter Snow in Hayden

2008-12-29T20:05:00.000-08:00

We went out today to Hayden to check out the lake cabin. It started out a snowy day, and it snowed and snowed. I think once we got past Tobler's Marina there had only been about 6 cars. As you can tell there had been no plow through. It took us an hour to get around, slow and steady, but the pictures were fabulous! It was sooo quiet watching the snow fall and hearing nothing. We got around and came across some guy running his tractor through the driveway, so we were able to get down. Lucky us. We didn't have any intentions of going in the gate and drove up the road to try and see over the fence. We got out to browse, look and take pictures. Mike took the ones through the link fence, I thought they turned out cool. I walked back to the gate and found it unlocked, so I pushed my way in and trudged through the knee-hi snow, hiked up the hill to the cabin, and found the porch safe and sound. We walked down to the lake and found the bay frozen, more awesome pictures, and everything quiet. The last few are on our way back, with the storm blown over and the lake clearing. All in all, a fun, cold, wet, memorable day. You can also view them here in the Picasa3 Album, http://picasaweb.google.com/jamjmrr/December08?feat=directlink

Snow Day

2008-12-27T17:24:00.000-08:00

There is snow here.......again. Mike once again is shoveling. It is becoming a morning routine, along with taking out the dog. Here is little Zeke, Richy's new dog. We are all adjusting in various ways. He is a spunky little guy, about 3 1/2 months old. He is still learning his name and we are learning the "potty-let-me-out" signals. Then, they headed to Mission Hill for some sledding. Kids everywhere, jumps and crashes. When they were sufficiently cold, hurt and tired they came home for some of mom's great hot chocolate! Yum, yum, YUM!

Richy, getting aerodynamic....

Logan, Becca, & Richy climbing up that big hill.

Pictures taken by my awesome dad. (Shhhh, he dosn't want credit.)

Orange Peel Candy

2008-12-21T23:54:00.000-08:00

I was looking through one of my favorite food sites, foodgawker.com and came across a post from Hungry Cravings (I think her name is Lucy Vaserfirer). It brought back some good memories of my mother. She made these one year at Christmas and I have thought about making them again on and off through the years, but didn't know where to find the recipe. So, I fell in love with the idea of making them for memories-sake. I sent a link to my sisters and of course they knew right where the recipe was in the Joy of Cooking. Should have known, it was my mother's standby cookbook. But, I liked this particulatr recipe and they were fabulous! Candied Citris Peel 2 oz. citrus peel, cut into strips 1 cup sugar, plus more for coating Peel and remove as much flesh and membrane as you can before candying, blanching will take out a lot of the bitterness. Place the peel in a saucepan with 2 cups water, bring to a boil, drain. Repeat 2 more times. On the third time, bring peel, sugar, and 1 cup water to a boil and simmer for 16-18 minutes, or until the peel is translucent. Drain the peel and save some syrup for another use. (I added about a Tablespoon to a cup of hot chocolate, yum!) Spread the peels in a single layer on a parchment paper lined tray and let cool. Roll in sugar to coat. Keeps for about a week in a sealed container. I peeled 7 oranges, made about 2 cups of peel, filled my 2 cup pyrex measuring cup, and simmered in 8 cups sugar. Yikes, but so yum! I had some ulrtafine sugar that I rolled them in, but I think next year, or tomorrow, I will get some raw sugar. That might be yum, too. You can try this with lemons, lines, oranges, grapefruit and she even suggests kumquat slices. Enjoy if you dare! Happy cooking, Jenn

Ahhh, the snow

2008-12-21T22:33:00.000-08:00

Well, I finally got these posted. It has been a real adventure the past few days. We even thought that church might be cancelled. It all started on Wednesday night, the 17th. It snowed steady and heavy for about 36 hours the first time. Wednesday night we shovelled about 10-12 inches and in the morning we had about the same. This is a picture of our backyard. In the 'V' of the tree on the right there is an old wodden birdhouse that the tree has grown around.

Oh, you can't see it? Sorry, it's under all that snow...hehe. The trampoline is normally above ground. I sent Mallory out with the yard stick and she snapped the next picture.

No joke!

This is my nephew Logan and Becca sledding from the road into the driveway. They had so much fun. I made a lot of hot chocolate that day, since school was cancelled, as was everything else in town.

The kids used the ladder to climb onto the top of the snow bank. 4 days later we are still waiting to bet plowed out. Mike has been helping a friend with his paper route with our 4-wheel drive. Melany actually got plowed this morning. Great weather for dad to come!

Twilight

2008-11-21T14:33:00.000-08:00

Well, I went to the movie last night (no, it was the wee hours of this morning!). It was good, Alice is still my favorite character. Jacob was way uglier than I imagined. Loved the scenery and flying! They say Bella is a bad actress, she played Bella exactly as I imagined her, boring. Great story. I'm not ga-ga over the whole thing like the teenagers, but maybe that's why I'm not a teenager anymore. lol, have to grow up sometime!

SMTA & Mo'

2008-11-13T01:53:00.000-08:00

I had a great day at my SMTA mtg (Spokane Music Teachers Association). After teaching on my own for 7 years, I joined this year. I am hoping to get more training, network and learn cool stuff - like today! The program part of the meeting was about a book called "What Every Pianist Needs To Know About The Body" by Thomas Mark. It is a discussion about using each part of the body most effectively for safe and efficient piano playing. It was great and totally an "a-ha" moment for somethings I have wondered about, hadn't even thought about and nothing I could say, "oh, I knew that" hehe. Nothing like having my own version of continuing education! Now, I want to get the book and read all the other tidbits and goodies inside. (wow, looking at my terminology, you would think I like to cook....hum)

Other fyi's in the family......

Not much going on but the day to day this week. We have had Logan this week and he lost the house key. Poor kid was really stressed about it, Becca was a good support, but because of the problem he missed Taekwondo tonight. Melany comes home tomorrow night. Mike had a snafu with the demo system, but good thing he's in ATLANTA only 3 hours from the home office (Birmingham) and they drove him another one. But, hence, he has to stay another day and will be home on Friday instead of Thurs. The kids and I were very disappointed. Jacob is doing well, has his papers in to the Bishop, but he wants Jacob to earn a few more bucks before he goes. He had given 2 weeks notice at Papa John's but in the meantime 2 kids 'quit' by not showing up. So, Jacob has gotten more hours filling in the holes, plus getting a nice ethical reputation. Great lesson learned, we advised him to give 2 weeks instead of walking out, and now it has paid off. I think he is going to stay on and still look for something more to fill in his time. Mallory is starting Winter Drumline - don't know what she is playing, probably end up where ever they need her. Richy is working on his grades - he's smart and I wait daily for the I'm-bored-text. Becca is getting sparked again with her piano and had over 5 hours practice time. Her time is beginning to match her talent. That's all for today. It's late, but I can't sleep. Tomorrow is late start and I'm going to make bread. Don't laugh. =)

Mallory's Senior Quilt

2008-11-02T00:09:00.000-07:00

Well, I barely got it done in time, but she had it for her first long bus ride for band. This is the full effect. If you look carefully you can see the band instruments in each of the pin-wheels. Drums, contras, french horn (her instrument of choice), clarinet, sax, etc. Sometimes the instrument is in the center, on the point, or easily seen in the middle. It was SO much fun, I have a great friend who helps me 'see' the bigger picture. My mom was great at that but I didn't get that talent from her. I wanted to get close ups of the quilting my friend did on her long arm machine. It is a special, huge, quilting machine that can do intricate patterns and designs quickly and efficiently. You can see the horn here and parts of a trumpet in the center. The pin-wheel on the right, there is xylophone, and the very center is a piece of clarinet! On the edge is part of a trumpet.

Here is a great shot of the french horn. If you look carefully you can see a tiny eighth note that came out in the center of the pin-wheel. You carefully line up 8 peices of fabric (it needs have a repeating pattern), as you cut triangles you get 8 exact pieces, then you sew them into a pin-wheel. It's called a Stack n Wack pattern. I may do another quilt with the same technique. (christmas-theme for the living room?)

The quilting here has a saxophone in the stitching. The top is cool...you can see the tuba/contra/baritone (my kids would laugh at me, because I can't keep them straight. I'm going for the contra). And then, in the middle is a trombone, just the slide part. As I said, SO fun and cool!

Next in line for a quilt is me or Becca. I have patterns already picked out, now just waiting for the time/money. Soon. Hope you liked it! Jenn =)

McKenzie Classic

2008-10-19T22:01:00.000-07:00

Mallory is the one on the end, far left. I can usually pick her out when the mellos are together. The "Elvis Move". I dropped the camera right before this and barely grabbed it in time to shoot the moment. At the McKenzie Classic in Vancouver, WA, you can buy "shoutouts" from the band boosters that they announce over the PA system as the band takes the field. Mike and I did one this year for Mallory. We said, "Mallory, thanks for 4 years of marching excellance with CV.......the sky is yours! Love, Mom, Dad, Jacob, Richy & Becca" She told us later she almost cried. (Mal hates to cry, so that means it was a good thing) These are the candy flowers that came with the shoutout. She had this sweatshirt made. The front is the event logo and with all the participating bands listed, left side is CV, right side MB, and across the hood is a musical staff, the back is some kind of band-oriented lingo. She's very fashionable now. They came in 6th place. I still wonder about that. But we were playing with the big kids here and there were definatley 2 bands better than us, plus the host band, who played in exhibition. 3 down and 1 more to go. 900 miles round trip to Corvallis, OR. I get to ride a bus!

Columbia River

2008-10-19T21:28:00.001-07:00

We were driving back from Vancouver along the Columbia River and saw beautiful scenery. Mike inculdged my and let me take a few pictures. Here are some of my favorites. Hope you enjoy them.

Morganism

2008-10-15T16:35:00.000-07:00

Our family's new favorite songs is "I'm Yours" by Jason Marz. It has the whole ukulele-thing going on and reminds us of our BIG family trip to Hawaii in 06, so we actually call it the Hawaii-song. Anytime someone hears it on the radio (me), I text the kids (shhhh, they aren't supposed to do that during school hours), and tell them the Hawaii-song is on.

So, 2 of us were humming in our heads, and Richy says, "Man, Mallory's song makes us all happy!" I like being happy.

Note: there is one bad word, and we ignore it and be happy!

Funnies from a friend......

2008-10-14T21:03:00.000-07:00

A friend sent me these clean jokes, refreshing in this day and age. Enjoy!!!

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Attending a wedding for the first time, a little girl whispered to her mother, 'Why is the bride dressed in white?'' The mother replied, 'Because white is the color of happiness, and today is the happiest day of her life.' The child thought about this for a moment then said, 'So why is the groom wearing black?'

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A little girl, dressed in her Sunday best, was running as fast as she could, trying not to be late for Bible class. As she ran she prayed, 'Dear Lord, please don't let me be late! Dear Lord, please don't let me be late!' While she was running and praying, she tripped on a curb and fell, getting her clothes dirty and tearing her dress. She got up, brushed herself off, and started running again! As she ran she once again began to pray, 'Dear Lord, please don't let me be late...But please don't shove me either!'

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Three boys are in the school yard bragging about t heir fathers. The first boy says, 'My Dad scribbles a few words on a piece of paper, he calls it a poem, they give him $50.' The second boy says, 'That's nothing. My Dad scribbles a few words on piece of paper, he calls it a song, they give him $100.'The third boy says, 'I got you both beat. My Dad scribbles a few words on a piece of paper, he calls it a sermon, and it takes eight people to collect all the money!'

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An elderly woman died last month. H aving never married, she requested no male pallbearers. In her ha ndwritten instructions for her memorial service, she wrote, 'They wouldn't take me out while I was alive, I don't want them to take me out when I'm dead.'

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A police recruit was asked during the exam, 'What would you do if you had to arrest your own mother?' He answered, 'Call for backup.'

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A Sunday School teacher asked her class why Joseph and Mary took Jesus with them to Jerusalem . A small child replied, 'They couldn't get a babysitter.'

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A Sunday school teacher was discussing the Ten Commandments with her five and six year olds. After explaining the commandment to 'Honor thy father and thy mother,' she asked, 'Is there a commandment that teaches us ho w to treat our brothers and sisters?' Without missing a beat, one little boy answered, 'Thou shall not kill.'

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At Sunday School they were teaching how God created everything, including human beings. Little Johnny seemed especially intent when th eye told him how Eve was created out of one of Adam's ribs. Later in the week his mother noticed him lying down as though he were ill, and she said, 'Johnny, what is the matter?' Little Johnny responded, 'I have pain in my side. I think I'm going to have a wife.'

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Two boys were walking home from Sunday school after hearing a strong preaching on the devil. One said to the other, 'What do you think about all this Satan stuff?' The other boy replied, 'Well, you know how Santa Claus turned out. It's probably just your Dad.'

Melany's Birthday

2008-10-13T23:21:00.000-07:00

It was Melany's birthday last week. I told Logan was going to get his mom a real "adult" cake. He said, "Great, I want to get her a dragon cake!" So, I took him to Just American Desserts where they have adult cakes and I explained his mom needed an adult cake. But, I did let him pick the flavors, fillings and the writing on the top.

It was the first birthday cake she's had since college. I think she liked it. Can you tell by her smile?

Sweepstakes Again!

2008-10-13T23:08:00.000-07:00

The band competed in Spokane this past weekend. It is always great to perform in front of our home crowd. Only a few families travel the miles each weekend (don't look at me! and with the gas prices you would think we could justify sitting one out, but NO, after 5 years, we have to keep going! We love it!) But this weekend we had so many family, friends, and alumni there it was awesome. And they came away with Sweepstakes again. Look at that great spacing! 16 bands competed. The farthest was Bozeman (MT), they definately travel a long way. Some from Tri-cities area and Central, WA and a few from Spokane. Um, of course you can see which one is Central Valley. Not, we have the color guard standing in a triangle, just right of the center. It is very cool to see a full retreat. They won't do that on the coast the next 2 week, just a Drum Major Retreat. So, this is a treat to watch!

A really nice piece of hardware!

Mallory with her fellow Mellos. Monday, when they were listening to the judges tapes, a judge said he didn't like Mellos, but that they were the best Mello section he had EVER heard and he was thinking he may have to start liking them now! Great to hear from a judge! 2 down, 2 to go, and these are the hardest.

My Senior, part 2

2008-10-10T19:54:00.000-07:00

Couldn't get them all to post......these were taken last and were the funnest (is that a word? lol)

Couldn't get them all to post in one.......these were fun!

My Senior

2008-10-10T19:40:00.000-07:00

Here are a few pictures of Mallory. I took them on my lame little digital camera, some turned out WAY cute! I only call it lame because I don't know how to use it very well.

Jacob's got a job!

2008-10-08T19:24:00.000-07:00

Jacob's got a job! He's been working since the end of September, keeping his tips to play with and saving the rest. He likes it, learning how to take orders, make pizza and of course deliver. Handsome guy, eh?

Future Drumline

2008-10-05T21:36:00.000-07:00

Richy marched in the Valleyfest Parade. It was a really, really short parade. They go from City Hall, Sprague and something, across the street from the Opportunity Post Office, and walk to Appleway Florist parking lot. All sorts of elementary school groups, a little military, politicians, volunteer groups, etc. We had a good time.

Richy is trying to do his serious face just like Jacob and Mal when they are in "marching mode".

Chatting with his friend Nate, who lives around the corner.

School

2008-09-27T23:22:00.001-07:00

So, yes I know, it's been 3 1/2 weeks since school has started. I don't know who checks out this blog anyway, but hopefully I can get better at posting and sharing. I figure it's like my journal, documenting important events, silly and weird stuff.

My baby has started 4th grade. Yes, 4th grade. She has Mrs. Bergdahl and helps a little Russian girl with her work. She speaks no English, but can read some. There is another student who speaks Russian and interprets also. So, they work as a team, Becca more sign-language-ish, and more as a friend/companion.

Richy is on his last year of Middle School. 8th grade, the big 13. He is excited to be running Cross Country this year and is pretty good at it. Now we will have to brush up on that sport, we don't know how to encourage/supprot him. We need to learn the buzz words and the lingo.

Mallory is a Senoir!!!! My second. She is so beautiful and full of spunk and spirit. She has really taken on a lot with her AP classes, marching band, and looking for a job. She is a great musician, too. Music is her fav! Another school year has started.

Lost Kitty

2008-09-06T22:09:00.001-07:00

It was a sad night last night. In a matter of moments our kitty was gone. She was playing in the dark hallway, someone zigged as she zagged and she got stepped on.......she was gone in about 30 seconds. We buried her at Grandma and Grandpa's under the pear tree. She was so cute and spunky, not a mean-thing about her. She was worming her way into everyone's life, even Mike, who is allergic to her. We miss her tremendously. ~>.<~ crying tears.

New Kitty!

2008-08-31T21:13:00.001-07:00

When we went to the Girl's Camp Fireside, we aggreed to take a little kitten. Silly me, what was I thinking! You would think I have enough little critters running around my house with 5 hamsters (another service-oriented resuce story), Cocoa (our aging kitty, I think she is 91/2 - anyone know cat years?), plus my 4 kids, 1 nephew, and just because I'm on a roll, Mike, too!

She is so small! They say she was 8 weeks, but goodness, she is tiny! Here she is in Mal's sweatshirt pocket. We all call her something different: Mal calls her Jynx, Mike calls her Spike, Jacob just calls her Kitty, I personally like to call her Deantsy (Dintsy? Deeeeeentsy?) I need a good language person to comment on the spelling please, where's Mal when I am typing! She likes to hang out around our necks, I suppose it reminds her of her mother. Warm, near our vocal cords for purring and talking, and can feel our hearts beating. Cocoa doesn't really care for her, but hopefully that will change over time. In the meantime, I give Cocoa extra love and space on the bed until she adjusts (don't tell Mike!).

Baptism!

2008-08-28T14:52:00.000-07:00

On August 16th, Jacob had his first baptism. We have had the pleasure of being able to teach Patti McElfish in our home for the last few months. She is a joyful spirit, and the simple truths of the gospel speak to her. She has cerebral palsy and lives around the corner from us. Her birthday is tomorrow, but we will have her over on Sunday for cake!

Our favorite missionaries! Elder Simonds and Elder Clark. They are the best Elders in the mission! Not biased at all am I? Elder Clarrk went home on Sunday. I will truly miss him. I'm sure he is having tons of fun with his family and catching up on movies!

Me and Mal

2008-08-21T02:13:00.000-07:00

Me and Mal, helping her make a beaded scripture book marker. I thought it would make a great gift or simple enrichment activity.

Mal!

Mal and Lani in a "Yo" pose?

Funny Mal!

Girl's Camp

2008-08-21T02:05:00.000-07:00

This is like the 4th time I have tried to post these pictures. I guess I will need to talk to my SIL about some of the ways that she posts, can't get mine to do some of the cool things she does. SO, anyway, here again are some of my 150+ pics from camp. Our theme was "Journey through the Jungle". So much fun with 121 girls and 38 leaders!

My Crafty Critter ladies. We did a Level Craft and Free Time crafts.

Mal and her YCL pals, Kate & Sarah. They had 7, 1st Level girls in their Neata Cheetahs!

Level Craft. It was so neat to see the girls being creative and unique!

We hung them on a broken tree branch, right and hung some on a clothes line.

Paino Camp June 08

2008-08-14T14:52:00.000-07:00

Becca and I had a great opportunity to attend Piano Camp again this year. She had a great time, renewing old friendships, making new ones and lots of smiles and giggles.

This is Jodi Graves, concert pianist, master teacher and a very fun gal!

Here is Becca playing a duet with . They had an ensemble class where they learn those great skills of working/listening together. It was Becca's first time playing the secondo part and keeping pace and listening to a beginner. She did great!

Her fabulous, awesome, inspiring, dedicated, one of a kind teacher (and the director of the camp): Ms. Mary Simpson! She is the best! She has asked me to help plan and organize next years camp. What an honor!

Richy Got A Haircut!

2008-08-13T17:33:00.000-07:00

So Richy Really, Really needed a haircut!!!! It took us a while and after a few friendly banters, we said "TODAY, IS HAIRCUT DAY!!!!" (July 14th actually)

And it was such fun we took a before.......

a Very Sad Before..........

and here's an after.....but he was hiding.....

Here's a handsome boy!!!

Changes!

2008-06-26T15:02:00.000-07:00

Our family dynamics have changed so much in the last month. We have seen it everywhere at our house. 1) It is finally summer, warm and sunny days are here now. 2) Getting Logan ready to leave for a month. We will miss him. 3) Jacob has been in Boise working for the last 10 day, we miss him too. 4) Richy has grown about 6 inches, he is about eyeball to eyeball with me. 5) Mallory and Becca are spending a little more time together. That is always nice. 6) Some of the plants my sister helped with are alive still (but, some are dead!)

Comfy Cocoa

2008-06-14T16:40:00.000-07:00

So, now that most of the family has returned home, Cocoa can now have her place back in Mal's room. She is a little shy around people and I hardly saw her all week. But this is where I found her after all the hub-bub was over and she had her routine again. Silly kitty! She missed Mal.

Where's the proof?

2008-06-12T10:51:00.000-07:00

Jacob with his Elicker cousins. Brandon, Jacob, Brianna. Front row: Richy, Logan, Benjamin, Becca. We missed Mallory as she was tied up with the band. We never did get a picture with of them together in his duds. =(

Proof Positive!

Brag table done by his Aunt Bethany and Aunt Melany. They were great help to me this weekend.

We are proud of him!

Jacob's Graduation

2008-06-12T10:33:00.000-07:00

Well, it's finally done! Jacob is graduated! I cried on and off for 2 days. But, it was great and Jacob worked hard. It really was such an accomplishment for him to finish. He's a great kid, but a procrastinator Crunch time came, and there was a little stress.

Last time playing with the band.

Banner in the Arena.

Proud parents. =)

Proud Grandpa from St. Louis. Thanks for coming Dad!

Remember when....

2008-06-02T23:08:00.000-07:00

Well, Jacob has 3 days of school left until after his mission. Can't believe he is that old. He brought home his year book today. We had it engraved with his name on it for his senior year. You can buy a spot in the back for Senior's baby pics and this is what we picked and worked on for about 3 hours one morning. He just smiled and shook his head, we are so silly!

(Insert pic here: can't find pic, Mike will send it to me and then I will add it)

Congratulations! You are an awesome Big Brother, a Super Example, a Joy in our lives, and truly a real-life cartoon character! We are so proud of you! Your future is bright and full of possibilities. Always do your best!

Love,

Mom, Dad, Mallory, Richy and Becca

Hayden is full of water!

2008-06-01T17:19:00.000-07:00

So we went to the lake on Memorial Day and saw this at Tobler's. The lake is SO full! We had this nice weather about 2 weeks ago, in the 90's and now we are dealing with all the snow melting at a fast rate! Haven't seen this much water in a long time!

Here is the main creek, Mike thinks it's Jim Creek, but I think it's something else. Jim Creek is the one that goes into our bay. Right? (After note: I was right, this creek is called Yellowbanks Creek)

The swimming dock.

I love how the moving dock is higher then the stationary dock.

Lots of water for a fun summer if anyone gets a chance to come up for a few days, it will be great!

Mike in Action!

2008-05-22T14:31:00.000-07:00

So, some wonder what Mike does when he is out and about the country, visiting hospitals, and being his fun, jovial self. This was taken just yesterday in Georgia and yes, it is a touch screen! He looks good in his shirt & tie, we always see him at home in his Hawaiian shirts (which he LOVES!).

This time he ended up working in a hallway! It is usually a side room or small office (closet).

A first for everything!

2008-05-22T00:20:00.000-07:00

First time for everything!

I have a few friends that have a blog and one in particular (yes, you Michelle) inspired me to get off my duff and just get it done! Thanks! =)

So, as busy as my family is.....as much as I am on the computer....and how far away all our family is living.....what a great way to keep in touch.

Here we are last summer at my sisters house. Just by looking the kids have grown up so much since then. I think Richy is at least 6 inches taller now.