SNICKERDOODLES

Flowers For My Sisters

2012-02-01T05:14:00.000-08:00

I wish I had the eye and ability both my sisters have. They are simply great with anything relating to growing flowers. I so admire their talent at knowing what to plant with what to make a bed or pot just jump out at you with beauty. I'm not bad at this but I know where I stand and it is a little intimidating to show my flowers knowing what I know of my sisters.

Be that as it may...here we go. And I will add that January in Arizona is pretty nice. February and March are usually my peakmonths for flower bloom though.

Lavender is really putting on the blooms and the bees LOVE it. I wonder if there is lavender honey being produced somewhere???

It's so nice to bring a rose into the house to brighten a spot. This hanging vase came from a favorite spot, Saturday Market in Portland, Oregon. A must visit if you get the chance.

Well Girls, there you have it for the backyard patio...most of it. Wish you were here to sit outside with me, sip a cup of gingerbread herb tea, listen to the bird songs and let the sun relax your bones. Sending you love.

Back, Kind Of

2012-01-31T11:38:00.000-08:00

I've really lost my blogging mojo.
Do I really even know what mojo means?
Cindy is asking for something new, mainly pictures of the flowers blooming in the backyard.
I took pics Cindy. . . they're still in the camera.
Well, not just so any visitor can see something different-
I really love this quote that Trevlyn pinned today.
Hope you do too.
Cindy, pictures of flowers are coming.

From Julie B. Beck, Relief Society General President:

"Mothers who know do less. They permit less of what will not bear good fruit eternally. They allow less media in their homes, less distraction, less activity that draws their children away from their home. Mothers who know are willing to live on less and consume less of the world’s goods in order to spend more time with their children—more time eating together, more time working together, more time reading together, more time talking, laughing, singing, and exemplifying. These mothers choose carefully and do not try to choose it all. Their goal is to prepare a rising generation of children who will take the gospel of Jesus Christ into the entire world. Do not try to choose it all!!!" Julie B. Beck, Relief Society General President

Good Bye

2012-01-16T11:32:00.000-08:00

Papa K. "passed" early this morning. I'm so grateful we changed our driving travel plans and SLK was able to make a last minute flight and arrived to be with his dad in those last couple hours.

We'll be together again, this I know, the life, death and resurrection of our Savior, Jesus Christ makes this possible.

We love you Papa.

i GET to speak in church sunday

2012-01-06T11:37:00.000-08:00

The Book of Mormon is a volume of holy scripture comparable to the Bible.

What Is the Book of Mormon?

The Book of Mormon is another witness of Jesus Christ and confirms the truths found in the Holy Bible. The Book of Mormon does not replace the Bible; rather, they are companion works that together teach about God and Jesus Christ.

Both volumes of scripture are a compilation of teachings as recorded by ancient prophets. While the Bible details events in the eastern hemisphere, the Book of Mormon documents the lives of the inhabitants of the ancient Americas. (more info here)

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

I'm speaking in church this Sunday, one of those last minute assignments when another member wasn't able to be there to speak. Guess what my topic is????? I'm trying to have a good attitude and not be too scared. Though the ward/congregation are my church family that I love, it is still a humbling and somewhat scary thing to me.

If you don't have a copy of The Book of Mormon, Another Testament of Jesus Christ, please feel free to comment and ask for one and I'll get one to you or click above and order one online.

New Year - Thoughts

2012-01-04T04:38:00.000-08:00

“Write it on your heart that

every day

is the best day in the year.”

- Ralph Waldo Emerson

P.S. I just knew you wouldn't mind if I included a picture of my dear, departed Kirby.

Wow, what a buddy!

Making Do

2012-01-03T12:20:00.001-08:00

So much value in this time honored adage:
Use it up, wear it out, make it do or do without.

I'm trying to practice what is in my heart in this regard.
It gives me an inner power.
Inner peace.
It makes me feel good.

It's a big part of my taking personal responsibility.
It enables me to hold my head high . . . at least in one area.
I don't have it all conquered and I'm not
coming off haughty or judgmental here.
Just sharing a good idea in this new year.

Oh The Power

2012-01-01T12:04:00.001-08:00

My message today is one of gratitude for this new year of 2012.

My heart rejoices in life and the power we have to create goodness and joy
not just in our own lives but also in the lives of our loved ones, friends and acquaintances .
I desire to serve more abundantly and joyfully.
I desire to increase spiritually daily.
I dare not mention anything relating to eating and food. Just not going there.;)
Counting my blessings and that is the reason for the smile on my face
that you can't see but I hope you can picture.
Sending you messages of good will and
JOY.

Sweeties and Syrups

2011-12-30T08:09:00.001-08:00

I was delighted to get this photo of my PA sweeties at the Warner Robins (Georgia) Air Force Base Aviation Museum. I was there many years ago and Jesse remembered my love of this Stearman on display. Papa, my dad flew one as a crop duster in Idaho in my childhood and I have such fond memories just looking at this restored bi-wing.
But even more delightful are the smiling faces I get to see in this picture. I'm sure they had a great Georgia Christmas with Christie's family.

Now, for the record, some syrup recipes so we can find them easier (yes, Becca, thinking of you).

Coconut Syrup

7-8 T butter
3/4 c buttermilk
1 c sugar
1/2 t baking soda
1 t coconut extract

Place butter, buttermilk and sugar in a sauce pan. Over medium heat stir until sugar is dissolved and butter melted. Bring to a boil and boil 1 minute. Remove from heat and add baking soda and extract. It will bubble up - just continue to stir and give it a few minutes for the "fizz" to reduce before serving.

Cinnamon Syrup

1 c sugar
1/2 c light corn syrup
1/4 c water
1/2 t cinnamon
1/2 c whipping cream

In medium sauce pan stir all ingredients together EXCEPT cream. Stirring constantly, bring to a boil over medium heat. Boil 2 minutes. Remove from heat, stir in cream. Cool 30 minutes, Syrup will thicken as it cools. Serve warm.

Did It Again

2011-12-29T07:44:00.001-08:00

I broke that rule, the one about not testing a new recipe on company or for a special occasion. Out of the blue I had the idea I wanted to make a chocolate mousse pie for Christmas dinner. Darling daughters Dori had already made the killer, 4 layer coconut cake and Trevlyn made an old fashioned, very traditional minced meat pie. That was plenty of dessert with all the gifted treat plates lining one counter. Since church services weren't until 11 a.m. (well SLK and I were in the choir so we were there early for practice) I knew I had plenty of time to make my hearts desire...oh that is much too dramatic. I just wanted those flavors in my mouth, okay. I must add that I loved celebrating Christmas on the Sabbath and attending church as it added much to the spirit of the day and in my heart.

To be honest, I thought the pie was okay, it didn't embarrass me, and with my dear friend Becca H. (and fam) at the table, who is such an amazing cook I was thankful for that. I didn't know if this was a recipe I would make again let alone share with you. We were also blessed to have Kathy S. and hubs join us for dessert. The more the merrier.

I'm still wondering why I loved that pie the day after. Maybe it's like stew. Funny thought. But now I really love this pie and will share it with you. Plus, it's easy and rather a fun recipe. Like ALL of Christmas, no photos, not even Christmas Eve (we hosted dinners both days). This hostess can only do so much . . . at this age. What I'm getting at is the photo below is one I found on the web that most looks like my pie, minus the chocolate curls.

I started with making a crust. Just use any recipe you like (I always use butter flavored Crisco for my shortening). And remember to take a fork and prick it all over prior to baking so it won't bubble up and distort.

Chocolate Mousse Pie

7 oz. semi sweet chocolate chips
1 1/2 c. miniature marshmallows
1/2 c. milk
2 c. heavy whipping cream, add 1 t. vanilla before whipping
1 9" pie crust (graham cracker or chocolate crumb or pastry shell baked)

Directions:

1. In a heavy saucepan, heat the chocolate chips, marshmallows and milk over low heat until chocolate is melted and marshmallows have "disappeared" and mixture is smooth, stirring constantly. BE PATIENT AS THIS TAKES TIME.

2. COOL to room temperature. It will cool faster if you remove pan from heat and place on a cooling rack so air can get under it and cool faster.

3. Whip cream and vanilla. Gently fold into chocolate mixture; pour into crust (cooled crust of course). Refrigerate for at least 3 hours. Refrigerate leftover.

Aren't you surprised at the ingredients and how easy these directions are! Me too.

Now I'd love to hear what you think of it. Will you give it a try?

Sincerely wishing you a happy day, msk

P.S. Temp today is to be 71* and 75* for New Years day. Yup, it's good.

It's Sour

2011-12-23T10:40:00.000-08:00

Giving thanks that Dori made it home in safety last evening.
Long drive, dirty car
but safe!!
One of her first requests was sourdough hotcakes for breakfast.
Yes mam.

This was her first trip home since beloved dog Kirby passed. I knew it would be hard on her. The girls would always call when they drove into the neighborhood so Kirby could be waiting for them on the front porch. The heart(s) is still very tender.
Dori expressed her love and tribute this morning in a carving on our railroad tie.

Counting my blessings
on a busy day.
Praying for the JCK's safe drive all the way from PA to GA this day.
Oh the blessing of a loving family.

December 22nd Greetings

2011-12-22T09:41:00.001-08:00

It's Thursday. Christmas is Sunday. Yes, you all know that but perchance my posterity reads this is the future it gives them some perspective . . .
and as I say, this is basically a journal from a mom to her kids.

Child five is driving from Northern Utah to Arizona today.
Yeah, coming home for Christmas . . . with pets in tow.
It will be good to have pets in the house, I think.
Praying for her safety during the long drive.

I started the day with hot cocoa and toast and reading scripture.
This is the Bible that belonged to my great grandfather Amos R. who is the grandfather
of my maternal grandmother Martha Floss.
It has been handed down in the family and I am extremely blessed to have just recently been gifted with it .

Luke 2.

The black ribbon is not for decoration but to hold it together.
My heart rejoices to see my great grandfathers pencil notations in the margins
(not shown in this photo).
To know that he was a man that appreciated the Bible,
and that he read scripture means the world to me.
I did not know Amos on this earth
but his Bible tells me somewhat of the man he was.

A load of laundry is hanging to dry so it was time to finish
the beautiful, soft and tender sweet dough into cinnamon rolls.
Go here for the recipe should you desire.
No raisins this time though with raisins would be my personal preference.

On the kitchen window sill here but then put into the oven to rise draft free.

NO skimping on butter, brown sugar or Saigon cinnamon.
You know about Saigon cinnamon right. Thee only kind to use!

Oh my.
This was one of yesterday's treats from my kitchen.
Cinnamon, sugared pretzels with a drizzle of chocolate.
I think I did not have the chocolate warmed enough and thus thinned enough
since my drizzle was often glopped.
Would those glopped pieces be your favorites?

These treats turned out perfectly.

Happy day wishes to you.
The house is full of the sounds of this CD and I love it.

P.S. I got a call from cousin Skippie this morning. She, Garry and Maddie flew up to OR to be with their family for Christmas. She said she made the Lasagna soup for them last night only she has renamed it Don't Tweak This soup. They all loved it too.

Soup's On

2011-12-21T04:44:00.000-08:00

Set the table because the kids and grands came over for dinner and FHE (Family Home Evening) this past Monday.

Didn't see anyone go for the clove stick candy. Peppermint is more to kids liking but give me clove any day!

Of course there had to be fresh bread from the oven to go with home made soup. I made the Lasagna Soup recipe I shared with you about a week ago. It is still getting raves. I hope you'll try it.

On the mirror:
"Such a big Miracle in such a little child!"

I'm still looking for wooden Scrabble games at garage sales . . . just for this reason.

Wouldn't Christmas dinner be so much easier if we traditionally just had a good soup? Okay, I would miss either the turkey or ham or pork loin. Yes I would.
And all the other traditional foods.
But soup is really nice as are family and Family Home Evening.

Wish you were coming over and sharing soup and bread.

Views of December home 2011.

2011-12-20T09:12:00.000-08:00

Sharing with you since you can't come home for Christmas.
You see, this blog is really just this mom, me keeping in touch with family.
That's how it started and it still is just a little, small-time mom/grammy blog.
The fact that others have found it, visit and comment
delights me
and I thank you but now youunderstand when it gets personal and perhaps boring to non-family.

Yes, here it is.
After I've drooled over the online photos of ones like this my dear friend Kathy S. (kms) custom made me one.
How do you say thank you for such a large and meaningful gift. Maybe with large and meaningful pans of freshly baked cinnamon rolls!
I love it Kathy, love you and smiling so big.

It's 2X3 feet so no little statement here.

Glimpses around the home-front. Now why didn't I turn the lights on???

Darling Mom who passed in 1972 brought this ornament back from Hawaii a looooong time ago and it's still one of my favorites to hang on the tree.

This Santa is painted on the inside of an oyster shell...so cool.

I stitched this reindeer from a kit in the 1970's.

Thanks Christie for my cute owl this year. She sends me such thoughtful ornaments.

A new-for-me nativity depiction. It is dear to me.

The usual, large nativity figures but in a new location. Kind of like theater-in-the-round. I'm sorry I cut off the head of the camel. I am wild about that camel.

The embroidered poinsettia Tyler brought home from his missionary service in Portugal. Miss you so much Tyler!

I stitched up this little one our first Christmas in 1969 with just the scraps of material I had on hand since there were no funds for purchased decorations. Orange holly berries since I didn't have red on hand. Maybe those are the most memorable.

This cutie was at my place detting on Thanksgiving in Utah last month and those are my precious Utah grands. Thanks Annette for this treasure.

Yup, tears welled up when I hung the Kirby ornament-this is the first Christmas in 10 years without my
bestest, 4 legged love.
And I should mention that this ornament was another Kathy gift. Wow.

I purchase this Amish lady ornament in PA last month, Christie and I have matchies. To the right of her you may notice the rosie cheeked angel Mom brought back from a trip to Europe.

She also brought back this red bird. Anything from Mom is so, so dear to me (especially since she passed when she was only 44 yrs.)

Painted wooden bowl and Christmas stamps.

A Jody handmade Christmas bear that I love.

Remembering J Jesus first, O others second, Y yourself last.

My dear Trevlyn's beautiful and treasured stitchery-
"Let us keep Christmas the old fashioned way with love in our hearts on this glorious day".

I just can't get this huge, pretty tree to look like the BH&G pictures.
Trust me, it's FUN.

Oh yes, I stayed with Andy and Annette's boys while they vacationed in Argentina years ago and they brought me back this nativity that I adore. I love it so much I keep it out all year round.

Notice if you look closely that on the right are two crown ornaments. I brought them back to AZ from Tai Pan for/with Skippie's direction and do you think they hang on her tree??? Can you say we are both scheduled too much. She's flying to OR today and I'm praying for her (their) safety. There's another angle on the Argentine nativity.

And here is the rainy back yard. Cindy keeps asking for pictures of my flowers and I tell her when it dries up and is sunny. Well, here is the damp version.

Okay, just now I turned and looked out the window and the sun is shining. Reports are to be back in the mid to upper 60's for the next week so I'll not complain one bit. Well, only complaint is not having more of you home this Christmas but I understand.

Next year????

Pausing . . .

2011-12-19T08:22:00.000-08:00

. . . to add a bit of the Christmas spirit into my life and just had to share with you.

Do you have just 2 minutes for a Christmas story . . . you won't regret taking

a little pause.

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

Each December, I vowed to make Christmas a calm and peaceful experience.

I had cut back on nonessential obligations - extensive card writing,
endless baking, decorating, and even overspending.

Yet still, I found myself exhausted, unable to appreciate the
precious family moments, and of course, the true meaning of
Christmas.

My son, Nicholas, was in kindergarten that year. It was an exciting
season for a six year old.

For weeks, he'd been memorizing songs for his school's "Winter Pageant."

I didn't have the heart to tell him I'd be working the night of the
production. Unwilling to miss his shining moment, I spoke with his
teacher. She assured me there'd be a dress rehearsal the morning of the
presentation.

All parents unable to attend that evening were welcome to come then.

Fortunately, Nicholas seemed happy with the compromise.

So, the morning of the dress rehearsal, I filed in ten minutes
early, found a spot on the cafeteria floor and sat down. Around the
room, I saw several other parents quietly scampering to their seats.

As I waited, the students were led into the room. Each class,
accompanied by their teacher, sat cross-legged on the floor. Then,
each group, one by one, rose to perform their song.

Because the public school system had long stopped referring to the
holiday as "Christmas," I didn't expect anything other than fun,
commercial entertainment songs of reindeer, Santa Claus, snowflakes
and good cheer.

So, when my son's class rose to sing, "Christmas Love," I was slightly
taken aback by its bold title.

Nicholas was aglow, as were all of his classmates, adorned in fuzzy
mittens, red sweaters, and bright snowcaps upon their heads.

Those in the front row- center stage - held up large letters, one by
one, to spell out the title of the song.

As the class would sing "C is for Christmas," a child would hold up the
letter C. Then, "H is for Happy," and on and on, until each child
holding up his portion had presented the complete message, "Christmas
Love."

The performance was going smoothly, until suddenly, we noticed her; a
small, quiet, girl in the front row holding the letter "M" upside down
- totally unaware her letter "M" appeared as a "W".

The audience of 1st through 6th graders snickered at this little one's
mistake. But she had no idea they were laughing at her, so she stood
tall, proudly holding her "W".

Although many teachers tried to shush the children, the laughter
continued until the last letter was raised, and we all saw it
together.

A hush came over the audience and eyes began to widen.

In that instant, we understood the reason we were there, why we
celebrated the holiday in the first place, why even in the chaos,
there was a purpose for our festivities.

For when the last letter was held high, the message read loud and clear:

"C H R I S T W A S L O V E"

And, I believe, He still is.

Amazed in His presence... .humbled by His love.

Again, HAVE A BLESSED CHRISTMAS SEASON!

Merry Christ mas to you all!

Just Sharing . . .

2011-12-17T04:43:00.000-08:00

. . . a few of my "pins" since it is a rather busy time of year.
You too?!@#*
Just need to get through Sunday evening and then I'll be breathing.

This gave me a good chuckle! I need to create a Pin board titled Made Me Laughs!

If you know me you know my fondness of silver. . . usually snagged
at a thrift shop on senior day.
Yes, I'm a senior.
So what of it. Did that scare you ;)

More silver love in a Christmas setting.
I also like mercury glass and how you can tie together silver and gold now days.
P.S. I also have some of those ginormous pine cones...yup, got them at a neighborhood yard sale...just walking my darling Kirby a few years ago and came upon them.

Wow, my favorite . . . at least for this morning.
I have to find someway of getting this quote on my walls.
Do you love it too?

I have a table soooo similar to this in my entry but without the bottom self
and I really want that shelf.
Yup, I've already taken the measurements to get wood to make my shelf and then probably paint it.

Oh, right, you know me -

so don't expect to see the after shots anytime soon.
But you still love me don't you.

And you know I have extra, vintage luggage I just recently snagged at a neighborhood sale if I want to put some on that shelf. Can I say snag anymore in this post. Annoying? Sorry.