Merry Merry Merry!

Well...It's been a marvelous week. Christmas day was glorious with family and presents and joy. I wanted to wish all a very wonderful Christmas season and a Happy New Year!!! ;)

Wow...5 more and lots to go

Well...yesterday was measuring and weighing day again. I'm down another 5 pounds! It wasn't as dramatic as the first time, but I had to remind myself that it was still good. That makes it a total of 20 pounds off in 6 weeks. Not bad, actually - for the first time in 5 years I'm seeing the scale below 300 pounds. Now we have another bunch to go... ;)

My personal trainer wants me to pick only one fat per meal this next couple of weeks. She said it was kind of mean to do during Christmas time, and she'd ignore Christmas day. I said heck yeah...I'm not even going to count it -- I didn't count Thanksgiving!

It's interesting how my stomach has shrunk and how I'm not tempted to eat a lot of candy...mostly. Making it at home is always a challenge, especially when the homemade caramel turns out soooo good. I want to buy a can of fat free condensed milk and see how it turns out. I'll let you know...

Have a good one!

Wow...it's happening!

Yesterday was the first time I've been on the scale since going with the personal trainer. My hubby teased me that I'd be 15 lbs lighter...I thought perhaps 10. He was right! I lost 15 pounds in 4 weeks!! I've never done that good. I was sooo excited! And I didn't even go home and eat chocolate...lol I did make an excellent alfredo chicken dinner, yum. Anyway...just had to share! I'm so excited! One of the things I use is Sparkpeople. I have a button on the side if you want to check it out...it's been invaluable in keeping track of what I'm eating.

Have a good one!!

Okay...this is the best!

We discovered this video today, and I had to share. If you love the Muppets, you're gonna love this. Enjoy!!

I Won!!

Well...it's Friday, the day after Thanksgiving, and I just thought I'd let you know that I won Nano...this past MONDAY!!! yeah!! Best I've ever done. So, I'm bragging. ;)

Anyway, I'm still trying to get some more words in, but at this point, I'm at 52,000 words.

I hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving, I know we did. LOVE that turkey. Have a good one!

I'm Doing It!!

It's crazy, but this month has been the best year for my Nano participation. Partially because I've been sick half the time...sigh...and thus had time at the computer that I don't normally have. I guess there are blessings in disguise everywhere...grin.

But anyway, my fellow Authors Incognitos are having different contests through the month to honor the Nano, and I came in third last week! For writing the most words! I was surprised, and a little thrilled...I mean, just hearing the words you won always seems to mean something, even when all you won is a patch you can put somewhere, but I put it here with pride. It means I'm doing something productive, even if no one else can really see it...grin. Have a good one...oh, and my word count this morning? 37,536. Not bad if I do say so myself. ;)

So Far So Good...

Or is that so good so far?? ;) It's second week of Nano, and I'm not that far behind. I should be over 12,000 words, but I'm only over 10,000 -- but considering that most of my writing is in the morning before work and at night before I go to bed, it's working. sigh. And I did over 5,000 on Saturday...grin.

Hope you're having an excellent day! I'm off to write some more...

I Really am Loosing My Mind...

Okay...you know you have too much on your plate when you forget things...but forgetting a party that you're giving??? sigh.

You know I do mystery shops, well, I gave a Pampered Chef party on Wednesday and Tuesday I told someone that I'd do a shop on Wednesday. In Wyoming.

I really need a vacation. I am SOOOO glad I have today off. I'm hoping to de stress, but I've got all my kids home for the day, so you know how that works. sigh. And then my son takes off with the truck (our only gas efficient vehicle at home) and doesn't tell me where he's going or why...

And I was going to do what today???

Also, I have started with a personal trainer. I know...it's really crazy, but my husband insisted. You see, if you are brutally blunt about it, I am extremely obese. At least that's the medical terminology. My family doesn't agree with it, but ya know. Anyway, I've been struggling to try and get the weight off for years, and just haven't had any success.

My hubby made me promise, oh, wayyyy back in February that I'd hire a personal trainer and see if that made the difference. Well, easier said than done, actually. I didn't want to go to some gym and have their specialty person, I wanted a personal trainer that came to my home. We couldn't find one. I finally thought of KSL.com the other day, and what do you know? They had personal trainers in their classifieds. (that was after wading through sooo many massage adds I thought I was going to puke) -- wait, pretend I didn't say that, my daughter-in-law is graduating as a sports massage therapist...sigh. (Yes, I have a daughter-in-law now...but that's for a future post)

Well...so we found a place called Lifelong Fitness. They are not a huge gym with no name workers and skinny, spadex clad instructors, they are a simple workout facility with personal trainers that you meet with to discuss your individual needs. You have addess to the facility 24 hours a day, and you meet with the trainer every week to discuss your progress, your nutrition (you'll notice I did NOT say the 'D' word)and are available when you are discouraged, frustrated, etc. Granted I've only been formally going for less than a week, but so far, so good. I'm encouraged, and that's saying something.

You track your eating habits on an online calorie tracker, and then bring in printed copies for them to look at. You could lie your head off, but they'd see it in the non-results, so you'd only be hurting yourself. I didn't think we could afford it in the beginning, but when we took stock of all the health issues I'm facing and what they would cost in the future, we figured it was the cheaper option.

I think part of my no brain stress has come from trying to do so many things at one time. I guess we'll see. I have lots to try and accomplish this weekend, but I'm not going to stress out if it doesn't all get done. Life goes on, right?? And my sanity is most important. ;)

Nano is coming...

be afraid...be very afraid. If you're like my hubby, you run screaming into the night saying "No! No, not again!!"

Some people are sooo melodramatic...grin.

Just because it's the month of November and 30 days of insanity where my house usually looks like a wreak, the kids are always wondering what's for dinner and no one can find any clean socks...what's to be so afraid of?? ;)

The count down begins...

Finally...the leaves!

Well, we finally had a Sunday free of obligation (sort of). After 4:30 we were able to go drive into the mountains to see the last of the leaves. So many years they have already dropped by now. Usually by conference weekend when we have a chance to drive up, they are already gone. But this year they've hung on, and it's been a gorgeous fall!! Just looking at the mountains every morning is an awe inspiring thing.

What is amazing, is our own large maple tree in the front yard has barely begun to change color. I can't wait -- it's a glorious sight. This is how it looked two years ago.



We enjoyed every minute of it, even driving around the reservoir and getting lots of pictures. sigh. I think I've had a refill of the serenity cup.

Have a good week!

Life is Crazy

Okay...we have gone in one week from have 5 children at home to having 6 (the 6th one isn't ours) and by next week, will have 7 again. sigh. How does this happen?? grin. Well... My son is getting married. She's a cute girl and we like her, but he doesn't really know her, so it's going to be interesting. And they are both out of work and broke, so they're living with us. Isn't life fun???
Sigh. Problem is, I remember when he was just a little guy and having fun with life. When do they grow up???
Oh well.

Conference was wonderful, and the weather was fantastic and my bday was pretty good for most the day. So, I'm pretty blessed. If I get a couple of obstacles to deal with along the way, I can handle it, right? Like my white shirt coming OUT of the laundry dirtier or more stained than it went in??? ARGH. Ok...I'm ok.

;)

This is What it's All About...

I read this article today, and it touched my heart. I thought, YES! This is what America is all about. This is how people can be.. I hope all of us would respond in like fashion. A Jobless Querk.

Autumn is Coming!

I was able to talk my wonderful hubby into going to see if the leaves are changing yet in the Alpine loop. We haven't been able to go there in years, and I've been craving a decent look at fall leaves. Sadly, every year around my bday and conference, we go and the leaves are on the way to being dead...sigh.

They apparently were in the still starting phase...and it was a very quick trip. One year I'm gonna be able to see wonderful leafs...it might be when we're retired and go to the east coast, but ya know. ;)

Maybe we'll still get some good leaves over the UEA break...

I can always hope!

9/12 The Rally

Okay, this wasn't the best photo, but it was taken with my hubbies phone. We were right behind the guy's head, and it was a lot bigger behind us...grin.

It was really fun to see people come out. I kind of felt sorry for the young couple that had just gotten married across the street -- they had to compete with the parking and the loud speakers... But it was amazing. We had a much larger turn out than anyone had expected. If only we could have gone to DC...now THAT was a march... If we'd had the funds, we would have joined them in the march, but we couldn't, so we stuck with Salt Lake. It was interesting, we enjoyed the speaches and mingling with those who had pretty much the same take on our situation right now as we do.

Also, a friend posted this thought on her blog, and I felt it was very appropriate for the thought:
"I am part of the fellowship of the unashamed. The die has been cast. I have stepped over the line. The decision has been made; I am a disciple of Jesus Christ. I won't look back, let up, slow down, or be still. My past is redeemed, my present makes sense, and my future is secure. I'm finished and done with low living, small planning, smooth knees, colorless dreams, tinted visions, worldly talking, cheap giving, and dwarfed goals. I no longer need preeminence, positions, promotions, plaudits, or popularity. I don't have to be right, first, recognized, praised, regarded, or rewarded. I now live by faith, lean on His presence, walk with patience, am lifted up in prayer, and labor with power. My face is set, my goal is heaven. My road is narrow, my way is rough, my companions few, my guide is reliable, my mission is clear. I cannot be bought, compromised, detoured, lured away, divided or delayed, will not flinch in the face of sacrifice, hesitate in the presence of the adversary, negotiate at the table with the enemy, ponder at the pool of popularity, or meander in the maze of mediocrity. I won't give up, shut up, or let up until I have stayed up, stored up, and paid up for the case of Christ. I must go till He comes, give till I drop, preach till all know, and work till He stops me and when He returns for His own, He will have no problem recognizing me”. - Author Unknown, quoted by Elder Henry B. Eyring

So, not only have we started on the road to try and reclaim our country -- I have resolved that I am one of the unashamed. I will always stand for Jesus Christ and for right and freedom.

I hope you will join me.

8 Years Ago Today...

I am not what most people would consider an extremist. I am what Glenn Beck talks about when he says most people are conservative, and not into protests or other activism. But there are things that touch my heart, and bring worry and concern into my life.

8 years ago, I was getting my children ready for school when my husband called me and said to turn on the news, a plane had flown into the world trade center. My world was rocked -- not because I actually knew anyone that worked there or lived in New York, but because such a thing could happen.

I turned on the news and was just in time to actually watch the other plane fly into the second tower.

I stayed glued to the television for the rest of the day. Our peace, our safety as a nation had been threatened, and it was the scariest thing I had ever experienced.

The rest of the week I remember how quiet the skies were, except for when the air force was flying over head. That was a wonderful sight. Never before have I been more grateful to be next to an air base.

What saddens me, is how quickly people forget. I have no reason to remember other than those people didn't deserve to die. Terrorism shouldn't be allowed to be active in the world. People all over the world should have the peace of mind of freedom and happiness. But instead, our nation is facing it's darkest hour, and there was no terrorist act perpetrated. Just government.

But I don't want to talk politics today -- I just want to remind everyone what happened that September morning eight years ago, and remember what you felt in your hearts. Say a prayer for our nation and the healing of those families who had loved ones die.

Remember who you are and what you stand for. Remember 9/11.

Happy Labor Day

Well...I know I haven't posted for a while -- Life has just been too crazy. I barely keep up with my other blog that I've committed to writing every Friday. This Friday I will be hopefully doing two blogs, because 9/11 is a very special day to me.

But today, today is the end of summer. So, I hope everyone is out there getting their last sunburn of the season, BBQ'ing their guts out and enjoying family. There's nothing like it.

We'll be cleaning out a workshop and perhaps starting on canning apples...I guess we'll see what we get done. Who knows...we might sneak in a water fight...grin.

Have a good one!!

Blog Tour!!

Illuminations of the Heart

Well...here's a new one from Joyce DiPastena. If you caught her first book, Loyalty's Web, then you were looking forward to this next installment of the characters she introduced. While this isn't a series dependent on each other for the reader, I'm sure it reads better, since you're already familiar with them, but for me, Illuminations of the Heart was a stand alone novel.

Joyce has a way of bringing the locations to life with her descriptions and deep research. Historical novels are difficult to write and time consuming, but she didn't take very long between Loyalty's Web and this one. I was really impressed with the plot outline she came up with and the research she did.

But beside all that, the characters draw you into the story and make you want to read to the end so that you can figure out how everyone gets out of this impossible situation. grin.

I don't want to give it all away...but you got to read it. Especially if historical romance is your cup of tea. Really!

She's also doing a contest and winners will be drawn from the comments on her blog tour blogs. The prize is a $10 gift certificate to Amazon, Deseret Book and Barnes and Noble.

Be sure and check out her publisher, Walnut Spring Press, for their other great books and blogs.

I did it!!! And so did my daughter...

Well...we did it. My daughter and I both submitted stories to the Ldspublisher for a Christmas story contest. Now everyone needs to VOTE!! So...go vote for my story (though I can't tell you which one it is.) And vote for my daughter's too...grin.

Just click on the button on the side bar and it will take you there. Good luck finding mine!!!

sigh.

Family is the BEST

Well...I just had my brother and his wife (the two on the right side) visiting from California for the past weekend. It was sooo much fun. My bro and I haven't had enough time together for the simple fact that we've been separated for much of our lives. Whenever I get the time to spend with him, I cherish it, and this was the longest amount of time we've been able to be together. It was a blast.

I took them to Park City and Thanksgiving Point. I've never been to Thanksgiving Point since they've made the huge gardens, that was really neat. We took tons of photos.

They thought Park City was fun -- the shops are always great. Then we tried to do a family picnic in the mountains, with my other brother leading the way...lol

That ended up being a fun two hour ride, but no picnic. We ended up coming home and grilling hot dogs at 9:30 at night. It was not the best of evenings, but we still had fun. That's the way my bro is. sigh.

So, now he's gone home, and we are getting ready to go to Fish Lake. Somehow the house just seems quieter without them.

A World of our Making

I realized tonight that I really like a particular movie. Mr. Magoriums Wonder Emporium. If you haven’t seen it, I highly recommend it. This movie is not your typical story line – it is narrated by a young boy who is much more adult than child and has a hard time finding friends. It’s all about Mr. Magorium, and he is none other than Dustin Hoffman.

I rented Tootsie a couple of weeks ago so that my children could see where this actor had come from. They’ve seen him in Hook, and they’ve seen him in Magorium, but they really haven’t seen him in anything else. I think he’s an amazing actor, I just wish he’d done more clean movies...grin.

Anyway – I think the main point of the movie is that we have wonderful lives to live. It doesn’t matter where we are, what we’re doing, or what kind of interests we have, we should live each day to it’s fullest. This was a man who enjoyed every moment of every day. Lived each moment as if it was a gift.

My favorite line from the movie is: “Your life is an occasion, rise to it.”

I would hope all of us took those words to heart.

You've Got to Read it!!

Okay...I haven't been paid to give this review, in fact, Josi will probably never know I wrote it. Actually, you've probably already heard about the book -- there have been raves about it for several months now. But after reading it this morning, I couldn't help it.

She's come out with a series that I'm excited about and can't wait for her to continue. The first one is called Lemon Tart. It's wonderful!! If you've ever read one of Josi Kilpack's books, you know that she's a wonderful writer. She has taken her talent to a level higher, I think, and is ready to go national with this series. I really hope it goes, too.

She sprinkles her chapters with recipes that look to be delicious, and I can't wait to try them. A friend of mine, Danyelle has let it be known that she has been test taster to these recipes, and can vouch for their yumminess. (is that a word? grin)

Anyway, if you like light mysteries with romance and cooking thrown in, then you'll love these books. Her next one, English Trifle is due out soon, and from what I've read, it looks just as good as the last one. Be sure and check it out, you'll love it!!

What a Memory!

Saturday being the 4th of July, there was the usual parade. This time I was actually in it! It was way fun. I was part of a group called DC 9/12. It stands for Davis Chapter of 9/12, which is something started by Glenn Beck, but taken on by the general citizenry.

9/12 is the day after 9/11, and he says all of us were different people that day. What kind of person were YOU? The point is not to forget how we felt that day and what we wanted to see happen in our world.

I hope you had a wonderful 4th. We spent it with family and I'm grateful that we live in a country where we are free to do so.

Kind of Funny...

I got a newsletter in my email today...it was the one I used to blog for, the yourldsneighborhood one. Kind of funny...it brought back memories of the frantic searching for subjects for my blog twice a week...I kind of miss it, but mostly not. Probably doesn't make any sense, but that's the way my mind has been the past couple of weeks. I've been avoiding writing, perhaps, but I needed a break. I'm still not ready to really get back into it, thought I've written more in my blogs this past week than I have for a couple of months.
I hope you have a wonderful 4th of July, one that makes you remember why you are here and part of this great nation.

I Won!!!

I'm so excited...I'm going to be grinning about it all day. Now I've got to wait until I get the signed copy in the mail!!! Yahoo! Anne's got another giveaway going today, and it looks like a pretty good book too, you might want to check it out...you never know!
;)

I want it!!!

Okay, one of my favorite authors is giving away one of her books! Julie Coulter Bellon is one of the best suspense writers, (I know, I'm a little prejudice) but anyway, her latest book looks to be as great as her others. You should look it up! And anyway, go check out the giveaway on Anne's site...she's great too...;)
http://annebradshaw.blogspot.com/2009/06/give-away-romantic-intrigue-alls-fair.html

Graduation Day!!

Well, yesterday was my son's graduation. I know...one of thousands across the state...grin. But it was way fun. We only had to sit through 1 1/2 hours of ceremony, got to take lots of photos in his gown and cap, and thoroughly spoil him rotten for the day.

He was the first son to walk across stage, complete his eagle and do concurrent enrollment at the local University. We are just a little proud of him, can you tell?

We took him out for dinner afterward to Maddox, and that was an experience. Anyone who has been there will understand...it was Friday and it was packed. I was really glad we'd made reservations. It was loud -- not sure I would do that again. My hubby and I decided that it would be an anniversary type place the next time we were trying to think of somewhere nice, but in a booth, so it would be quieter. Of course, anytime you have our troupe together, it's noisy because they're all trying to talk over the other. smile.

Anyway, We had made a fun big sign that said Congrats 2009 with his name across the C part of it and taped it to the garage, and then lined the porch railing with balloons before we went to the graduation so it would be a surprise. (he'd already left) When we got home we found this:



During the time we'd been gone a microburst came along and totally tore the sign of and all but 4 of the balloons... sigh. My oldest son thought some local kids who were out playing night games might have torn it down, but that's something we'll never know and I'd hate to think someone would do that. So...nature had it's way, and he never saw the sign. Dang.

Otherwise....it was a great day!! It was definitely a Kodak moment...grin.

Greetings from No Mans Land...

I really am alive...I'm just swamped with additional work hours, getting cars to the shop, getting some kind of food in the house, meeting old friends from 35 years ago, a nephew entering the MTC today, an 18th bday, a graduating son, (same son working at and finishing his Eagle) another son giving us attitude, two other sons having to be forced to do anything, and one of those sons getting sick yesterday and throwing up while I was at work. Can we all say, "Good timing!"? grin. His sister made him clean it up...sigh. Such empathy.

I've also been working on my proof copy of a book I wrote for NANOWRIMO last year that those who participated earned a free proof copy for...including shipping! So, anyway, most of my spare time the past month was spent in getting it ready to pretend to be printed. I'll let you know when it's available at Amazon so you can go see the cover and my name in print...lol

So, needless to say all my grand schemes for blogging on Tuesdays with an inspirational scripture have fallen by the wayside. In fact, most of my blogging efforts, now that I'm down to one 'Have to' a week, has dropped off. I apologize to anyone who might still be reading my blog.

I really am still alive, and I'll be trying to make more of a showing in the future.
;)

Memories

Today is Memorial Day, for anyone who happened to forget what day of the week it was...grin.

It's a gorgeous day, and I hope everyone gets a chance to spend some time outside and with families.

It's a day worth remembering, and worth creating memories.

It's this day each year that I wish I could go visit my father's grave -- but it's in California, and I've never seen anything but photos of it. My hubby says one year we'll go and visit it, but we haven't been able to find the time or money. Some day.

But after a day of working in our yard, we're gonna head over to my sisters and have a BBQ with family. We look forward to this every year, and I ponder the idea that some day it will be my children coming to my house with their own children. It blows the mind.

I just wish my parents were around to see their grandchildren -- but yet, they can see them. I just wish the kids could see them. sigh.

Have a wonderful day, and I hope you are able to honor those who paved the way for where we are.

Happy Memorial Day.

Love ya, Dad.

Amazing contest...help me win! lol

Okay, a fellow blogger, Not Entirely British, is having a giveaway on her blog for two of Jessie Clark Funks CD's. Now, I think Jessie is an amazing singer, and I've always wanted one of her CD's. I even have reason to think she's a great second cousin, but I haven't been able to confirm that with my aunt. ;)

Anyway, go check it out and see what you think. Anne Bradshaw is a fun writer to read anyway, so you'll enjoy visiting.

Have a good one everyone... ;)

Spring or Summer?

Well...I hate to say it, but I think Spring is on the way out. Yesterday it was SOOO hot, that I was ready to bag the whole thing and move to Alaska, and it's only May. I realize there are many times when I'm a whimp...sigh. But come on, 90 in May???
Anyway, this is going to be a very hectic summer. I hope you have vacation plans, because I'm sure not going very far from home -- too many weddings and stuff!

What was that again??

I was reading an article in the Deseret News this morning and came across a referrence to an article in the MormonTimes written about a presenter at a conference. I guess it just goes to show that almost anyone can present -- it doesn't mean it's going to make sense.

The meat of the presentation was that Mormon film has failed. (I know, I don't write for the arts anymore - oh well.) It said what started with Richard Dutcher and God's Army has now failed and the reason is that they were trying to show Charity and Faith at odds with each other and (I guess) confused the audience.

Personally, I think Dutcher just flirted too close to the other side and the dark side won. He was simply frustrated that he hadn't made millions with his movies, that no one else was following his example and so he felt betrayed, lost and left the church. I figure if he's really as smart as we thought he was, he'll be back. The smart ones always come back because they know there's no where else to go.

But beside that -- the article ends with the idea that the only film that really met the goal and showed the power of faith and charity was Napoleon Dynamite. He mentions the part where Napoleon's friend is off stage watching him dance (which was the only part of the movie worth dancing in my opinion) that there is this big moment.

Whatever.

I personally don't think LDS film is dead. I think it's on hiatus right now because they're searching for subject matter that will make us want to come see the movies again, but I don't think it's dead. There is just too much good out there, and lots going on. Film is not what defines us. It is fun when there is a good one to watch, but it's not necessary to our salvation, and that's what everyone needs to remember. There are more stories like Best Two Years out there. Didn't we just have the one about sister missionaries?

There was a glut of silly/stupid films for a while that we've all decided to sit back and see what's worth watching in the next batch. They'll come. There will be another Dutcher to show us the strength of faith in action.

But I sure don't see Napoleon Dynamite as a definition of my faith. Do you??

Life Gets in The Way...

I make a commitment to write every day -- and my job gets crazy. I make the commitment to do a blog on the scriptures every week, and I made it two -- I think. sigh.

I know it happens all the time, to everyone of us, but it's still frustrating. I feel that I've let those few that read and support me down, and I want to let you know I appreciate your support. I really am alive and I will be doing better.

May is a wonderful month, full of tulips and flowers and long grass...lol

Thanks for reading.

HAppy May Day!

Well, I don't have a May pole to dance around, and I don't have excited kids that want to dance anyway -- they'd rather be playing their alotted game time...so, It's not going to be much of a May day, but it's been gorgeous -- in my view. I kind of like rain.

Anyway, hope you have a wonderful month of May. I'll try to put some thoughts down later, but this weekend is kind of busy. Got a baptism and luncheon tomorrow, as well as a temple endowment at the same time...we're going to be split up for much of the day...sigh.

Never fails...get a chance to be with your hubby and something else comes along.

Anyone want some dandilions? We have enough to share...

In Retrospect...

It's been almost a year since I started writing blogs for Yourldsneighborhood. What started out as an exciting foray into the world of public journalism, grew into a stress that I've only recently begun to wonder if it was worth it.

Thankfully, or unfortunately, before I had to seriously give thought to resigning, the option was taken out of my hands. Last Friday (or this past Monday) was the last blog I will have written for those good folks. I appreciate their willingness to let me attempt descriptions of the world of art, and the chance to stretch my wings a little. I have grown a lot.

Now I can take some time to get some serious work done on the work I have in progress. I appreciate the opportunity this has given me, and I want to thank those of you who stuck with me, even when perhaps my subjects were not interesting.

Now, it will take a little time to get back into the swing of blogging for the fun of it. Perhaps you'll be more interested in my little tidbits than my artful thoughts...grin. Who knows.

But anyway...we're back to normal now.

Wicked...or Not?

In trying to find the interesting and artful for this weeks blog, I heard about the Broadway musical that seems to have taken Salt Lake by storm.

Wicked.

My sister-in-law went and saw it Saturday with her children. Her youngest is a boy turning 8, and all he had to say was he didn't like the "kissing" parts...lol.

This is the musical based on the book written by Winnie Holzman.

I've known the book was around for sometime, and while my sister and everyone else seemed to be reading it, I was never attracted to it. Hearing the basic idea behind the story makes it sound intriguing, and the musical sound inviting. I'd like to see how they manage the idea of two total opposite girls becoming friends in college only to become enemies in adulthood.

I'm afraid that I have the Wicked Witch of the West firmly entrenched in my mind as the crotchety voiced crab (played by Margaret Hamilton)who acted in the original movie with Judy Garland as Dorothy -- my all time favorite actress. Who didn't want a pair of ruby slippers after watching that movie? Perhaps it's just the old fashioned part of me -- but then I don't like a lot of the remakes that have come out in the past ten years either.

Be that as it may, if you like theater and musicals, you'll probably not want to miss this one. It's truly a spectacular on stage presentation.



I hear the stage setting and costumes are amazing, and that everything is very much what you'd see on the Broadway stage. There is even some reference to the movie of it's base, The Wizard of Oz, and that would be interesting to see. Apparently everything is vivid color, like the movie, but the wizard is black and white. I guess you'd have to read the book to understand that.

The recommendation of my sister-in-law? She thought it was awesome and fantastic.

So, if you're in the mood for some musical theater this week, see if you can get some tickets and check it out.(I've heard two different sides to this...tickets are readily available, and yet, tickets are all sold out and the show ends May 3.) So -- apparently they're in short supply. I think the munchkins got to them...grin.

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Easter Moments

If you watched conference on Sunday last week, you will remember an amazing talk by Elder Holland. (not that any of the others were less so, but his really struck a cord)

Apparently they created a short film of it and put it on the LDS Messages site. I want to share it with you today, that perhaps Easter might live on in your hearts. I had a wonderful Easter, and I hope you did too.

Two Wonderful LDS Artists

If you watched the in between conference presentation on channel 5 Sunday, you were able to see a program about the art inside the Draper Temple. I've already talked about the windows and how wonderful the decor is, but I'd like to touch on these two artists, because their stories were so inspiring. Especially the first one...

Linda Curly Christensen

This wonderful artist has been able to realize a dream by heading up a team of Art Missionaries. Until this point, I never knew there was such a thing. She heads up a team of artists that paint the murals for the temples. What a wonderful mission! that would be simply...heaven on earth to me. Imagine getting up in the morning and going to paint for the Lord!



Fortunately, she has married a man who was equal to the dream and to the task of helping her in these projects. Greg built her a studio that will fit the tall panels of murals used in the temples, and also built large easels that roll on wheels. I can't even imagine the scope of these paintings. The largest thing I've ever painted was about 27" by 40".

She is really an inspiration to artists in the church, and a talented woman who has been able to share this wonderful talent with all of us who attend the temples. If you've gone through the Draper Temple, you've seen how amazing those rooms are.

The other artist that worked on those projects was Keith Bond.



He does amazing work as well. According to the program, and his website, he practices the art of painting en plein air which means outside. Of course he paints larger pieces in a studio, but he tries to do as much as he can outdoors where he can experience the reality of what he wants to put on canvas.

In addition to the murals he did for the temple, he has done two murals for the Utah Capitol building. They are both large and amazing works depicting two distinct scenes from Utah, in a way intended for those working there to remember that their state is beautiful.



This is the style of painting that I aspire to, since I love to paint flowers and the outdoors.



I was inspired by the program and the highlighting of these two artists, and wanted to share their talents with you. I hope you have a chance to see their work soon, and to enjoy the wonder and beauty of the world around us that was created by our Savior, and gifted to these talented people who are quick to share and answer the call.

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Um...Scripture thought went away for the day...

I know I've been really lousy at getting the scripture thought out each week...this week is worse than most because we've been refinishing our floor and haven't had time to do anything other than prep it and get my other two blogs done.

I'm supposed to be on vacation!!! lol

Anyway...Conference was awesome. If you watched or listened to it, then I think you have plenty of wonderful things to think and ponder. Aren't you thrilled to be part of such a wonderful thing as the gospel of Jesus Christ? It's an amazing thing.

Have a wonderful spring break, week, or whatever, and Easter.

The ART of Relaxation

When I think of spring break, I usually think of vacation time. Usually though, we don't go anywhere. If anyone has tried to travel during spring break, they've discovered how that's the same thing everyone else is doing, especially if it involves a warmer climate -- like beaches. Since a crowd cuts down the relaxation, that doesn't work very well.

This year we're doing some much needed remodeling on our home, which involves refinishing the floor in the front room. We figured we were going to want to clear out of the house for at least three days, so that involved actually going somewhere.

Since we're like most of the nation right now with not a lot of loose change, it involved "who can we bug to stay at their fancy condo??" Grin. You see, we are lucky enough to have relations who have a condo in Deer Valley. For those of you in the know, Deer Valley is a nice secluded little valley behind Park City. It's quiet, and calm, and gorgeous.

Fortunately, my sister said yes! So, we are planning on hiding out for a couple of days.

Now, if it were my mother-in-law, she would go stir crazy. She would want to have every day with something planned. She isn't thrilled with doing jigsaw puzzles and reading books or watching movies, munching on goodies and generally lazing around. That's not her idea of a vacation.

That's where we get into a discussion. There are Vacations, and then there are Trips. A trip is where you have locations and activities planned. You take a trip to see Yellowstone National Park. You take a trip to tour Zions National Park. A trip is going to the Grand Canyon and hiking down the trails or riding a burrow all the way to the bottom.

In our view, Vacations are for RELAXING. Did you know there was an art to relaxing? There is! One has to determine what that is for each individual, but for my family, it's easy. One of our favorite places to relax is Fish Lake.



This place is perfect for relaxing. If you like to fish, you can do that to your hearts content (actually catching something is optional). If you would rather relax in a cabin or tent, that's the best prescription -- at least in our view.

My sister has a cabin down there that's to die for, and when we go, we have no intention of doing anything. We go for walks, we do puzzles, we play games, sometimes I paint, the kids play Foosball until we want to toss the game outside, and we generally laze around and soak up the non-electric silence.

It's Heaven on earth.

What is your idea of relaxation? I've discovered there can be many ways to relax. Most of which can be done in your own home. If you like to take bubble baths, that's a great way to relax. Like to read? Curl up with a good book and a cup of hot cocoa and tell the children to leave you alone for an hour. (Doesn't always work, but it's worth a try.) Finding a way to relax with children can be a challenge, especially if they are small children.

The best way I found was to get them to bed early and have a romantic relaxing dinner with my hubby. I remember one time I set up the wading pool in the back yard, found some ocean/beach sounds, lit some candles and fixed dinner outside. We relaxed in the pool with our dinner and it was a wonderful evening.

This past week has been extremely stressful for me at my work. As a result, the subject of relaxation has largely occupied my brain. I'm sure many of you can relate. We live in stressful times. How we handle that stress, and how we are able to relax, is very important in our relationships.

Chocolate is a great start!

I'd love to hear about your favorite way to relax.

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No scripture today, I thought I'd share the fun "you are most like" test I took at a friends Facebook site. I was pleased with who it was, but I wasn't sure how closely I matched it...

You are most like SARAH
Dedicated to your spouse/boyfriend, you would do anything for them. You also are a woman of faith, who takes God at His word. You have much wisdom, and are a role model to many other women, both young and old. Your life is filled with adventure, oft times and is unpredictable as you live a kind of "nomadic" existence as the Spirit leads.

Robert Duncan's Art

My dentist has several paintings in his dentist office, not in the reception/waiting area; but in the rooms. One of my favorites is this one at the top. I've often admired these paintings and wondered who the artist was. I love the way he uses light and color together. How he can imbue the painting with emotion and peace. They are wonderful.

Today a co-worker was showing me a little calendar she had purchased, and it was the paintings of this same artist, so I finally discovered his name. Robert Duncan. I was so excited that I finally knew who it was, I wrote down his name so I wouldn't forget it.

Now, I realize that I'm probably one of the few ignoramuses who didn't know who this man was, or how talented he is. I'm sorry! Grin. But, I'm repenting and determined to own some of his work as soon as I can afford it. Even if it's just a calendar.

This one of the boys in the orchard is another favorite from the doctor's office.


It makes me think of days gone by, when boys worked on farms during the summer, went fishing at nearby springs, and learned the values that are so important.

But what really grabs me is the ones he has painted of snow. You feel as if you are totally there in the picture, in the snow, feeling it coming down and enjoying the fun of play.

Obviously, I hadn't seem much of his work before today. I've only been privileged to see a handful of paintings, but they were enough to grab my attention and want to see more.

A good artist is able to do that. That's why people collect their work, hand their paintings, and sponsor them in galleries. When you come across something beautiful and inspiring, you always want to share it. Our joy in something grows in the added appreciation of others.

As we begin to see spring on the horizon, and winter edges out of our nights, these paintings help to bring those feelings into our hearts; make them real and bring back memories that are much the same as what is painted.


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I read in one article that Robert Duncan was elected into the Cowboy Artists of America and that he's received two silver medals in their annual exhibition. I would say he's captured the heart of the home, as well as the west and nature. He truly is an artist.

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Having a Moment here...

I feel some days like I'm living in a cartoon. One of those with a woman sitting at her desk, photos of her family around her, co-workers vying for her attention, and a dozen things hanging above her head.

She's on the phone and telling someone she simply can't take on another project...if she did she was afraid she'd upset the balance of her juggling act and things would fall apart.

While I'm not nearly as busy as that, this week has felt that way.

I have so many things going on at work, so many things going on at home, that I'm feeling deep down I'm missing something.

I hate that feeling. So...in addition to missing getting the scripture thought out yesterday, I've notice my readership has dropped off too.

I'm sorry if you're feeling bored or uninterested in what I'm saying...I know it's my fault, because if it were cute or interesting, you'd be reading. That's what I do...grin.

So, I am working on it. Hopefully things will get better soon.

See ya Friday...

Stained Glass

One thing that has always captured my interest and amazement is stained glass. I was somewhat taken back when I discovered my sister was creating her own works of stained glass. I thought it was a difficult and time consuming, let alone, um, dangerous, hobby. (Cut fingers, cut arms, missing fingers...grin)

When I went through the Draper Temple Open House, I was moved by the stained glass in the doors and windows. In looking up the information on the work, I came across this blurb:
"All of the art-glass windows created by Utah artist Tom Holdman for the Draper Utah Temple miraculously survived a fire that left only a portion of one window damaged, even though the art studio itself was so badly burned, it was condemned."
That tells me the Lord looks after the works of His house. I thought it would be nice to explore the other temples and some of the stained glass that we are given in them.

The Redlands Temple has some unique glass work around the edges of the windows. I tried to get a close up look at them, but this is as good as I could get. The contractor who had been in charge of the building of this temple (and a few others) used to live in our ward. When we helped them clean up (the youth of our ward), they offered to let us have some of the leftover glass pieces that made up this unusual design. I was able to have two (I had two sons helping) and gave one to my sister for her glass making. The other I'm trying to frame.

Here is a photo of the young man who designed the windows for the Rexburg, Idaho Temple at work. Amazingly enough, he didn't even know his designs had been accepted for the windows until he was already on his mission. He was able to work on them when he came home. His name is Josh Lewis. Below is the completed example of his windows.

(All photos of the Rexburg, Idaho Temple are from this website)
Last, but certainly not least, is the Palmyra Temple. The windows there were made unique by following the foliage from the surrounding countryside. They were designed to match the Aspen trees that made up a great deal of the forestry, and I think they're gorgeous.

I would have added more if I could locate good photos of them, but that's hard to come by unless you have access to the open house brochures...grin.
So, hopefully, that's enough to wet your taste buds and make you want to see all of them in person. Thinking about the idea that there are over 140 temples around the world, the idea that you could visit each one of them is remote. (though there was a time you could have done so...)
I hope you take the time to visit the ones closest to you and enjoy the spirit and beauty that you'll find there.

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