Remember to Love

Well...Friday we buried by sister.  This wasn't planned.  This wasn't supposed to happen.  But then - we aren't the ones in charge and sometimes we have to be reminded of that.  sigh.

My sister Lisa was one of those truly kind and generous souls.  She never had a bad word to say about anyone, and was the prime example of "what would Jesus do?".  She loved much and easily, and I can only hope to learn and live from her example.  Her children showed some great stuff at the funeral Friday.  I was very impressed by how well the whole thing came together, how they held together (for the most part) - most of us siblings would have been emotional wreaks.  I mean, I WAS an emotional wreak most of the morning.  But by the time we got to the cemetery, I was calm.  

She's in a much happier place now, with mom and Steve and Steph.  I'm sure they are running around with much to do.  

I just know we're going to really miss her.  

Love ya, sis.  See you later.

Book Review - Most Important Catch!

I have to tell you - sometimes it's great to be part of the writing world and get an advance notice of books coming out.  Even better is being able to get copies of said books to review!!  Since I love reading next to eating or breathing, that's like, the best thing in the world!  ;)

That being said -- I have a great book I get to review today.  If you've read any of Jaclyn M. Hawkes, then you're familiar with her witty style of writing.  One of the things I loved about this book was the humor.  There were many times when I was just chuckling at a passage and thought, "Cool!  She's got me laughing!"

The Most Important Catch is a great read.  If you are into romances, or your daughters are (like mine), then it's one you'll want to pick up.   It's not a flat suspense, it has too much romance.  It's not a no-brainer romance novel either - there's too much meat to it.  The main characters have great interaction, and if you happen to be a football fan, you'll get a kick out of it, though it will remind you how pathetic the professional sports world is.

I wish I could give you my favorite part, but you know how the swiss cheese is in my brain - and it's in full force today.  Suffice to say that you're wondering through the whole book how the heroine is going to solve her problem, how the hero is going to save the day and convince her that he loves her, and how the bad guy is going to get his.  Good stuff, and well done, as usual.  Trust me - if you liked her other books, you'll love this one.

Feminism? Get a Clue!

I've been hearing alot about feminism lately, and it's cracking me up.  I'm 50 something, okay?  I grew up when feminism was big and women were 'empowering' themselves.  It was also the beginning of the breakdown of our civilization, in my view.  I'm just a humble housewife.  I'm not a master holding college/university professor, and I have no desire to be.  But should I want that, I think it's entirely possible for ANYONE, regardless of race or gender.  Why do women feel that there is so much difficulty?  Because Satan tells them there is.  I read an article that stated a friend who was LDS still felt there were issues in the church with feminism.  That totally surprised me.

I don't see how any intelligent female in the Church of Jesus Christ who truly understands the priesthood and the gospel can feel any lack of support or encouragement.  The leaders, especially the Prophet, have always encouraged women to make the most of themselves.  They encourage all of us to get an education.  They understand that some women must work outside the home.  Only those women who feel a lack within themselves and listen to the dark one and his whispering will think there's anything else out there.

I know better than anyone how being a stay - at - home mom can be hard.  I had 7 children under the age of 10.  It was a foggy time period that I really don't remember a great deal of, other than I was a mom.  It was after that time that I began to realize I had a brain and started developing my talents again.  I would paint with my children, encourage them to write.  While we develop ourselves, we encourage our children to develop their abilities and strengths.

While we never had the funds to encourage them to be on soccer teams, or baseball teams, (though our twins were on a softball team twice before it got too expensive), or dance or gymnastics or cheerleading, those things while being great activities, don't necessarily  make the perfect child.  It's the parents.  The mother.  The nurturing and guiding and teaching in the home.

I can't say my children are perfect either.  They've all made mistakes.  I wasn't the perfect mother.  And I wasn't always a stay-at-home mom either -- there were times when I had to work.  Fortunately they were brief, and there were times I held a part time job that enabled me to be outside the home for small periods of time, which I think every mom needs for sanity!!

But as a general rule, they aren't ax murderers, druggies and homeless.  (okay...so one would be if his sister didn't love him, but that's another story)  They are for the most part, contributing members to society and they were taught manners and courtesy.  They learned how to get by with stuff from DI and home grown food, and home made clothes.  They didn't expect life to be handed them and they certainly don't think that mom and dad are perfect....sigh.  The sweetest words a parent can hear though is, "wow, I was such a jerk when I was a teenager, you were right!"

I have come to recognize many of Satan's twists on the truth as I go through life.  He likes to put the pure into the gray, twist the truth into doubt, and make one feel there is lack when there isn't.  The Lord is the only one who can help us keep on the straight and narrow, holding tightly to the Rod.

I feel that a woman who thinks there is still a struggle for feminism out there, is someone who is confused and or selfish.  Feminism in it's purest form (from when I was a teenager) was basically, 'what's in it for ME?  How does it help ME.  How can I get what I want out of life?  I'm not earning as much as a man in my job.  I'm not getting as many promotions.  I'm not equal to that man in the company.  ME. ME. ME.

In some instances I can totally agree with that thought.  There should be equality in the work place.  If a woman has as much schooling, as much ability, as much skill, yada yada, she should get equal pay.  It's that simple.

However - if a woman is leaving a family behind because she isn't feeling fulfilled - because she wants THINGS over the eternal prospective, then that's a whole different matter.  That's where the loss comes in.

No one is probably going to read this - I don't have a big following.  I  never thought I would.  Blogging wasn't embarked on a journey to become world famous, it was something related to my writing and the need to express myself.  My kids don't even read my blog, so you see how much they think of my writing...lol  Actually, they love my fiction stuff, so perhaps that's what I should stick to.  Anyway.  There are times when I feel I must express myself to the general vastness of space and let it go.

Anyone have a balloon I can let go of?

I'm Still a Grandma

Well...almost 2 years ago I posted that I was a grandmother...twice.  Due to circumstances out of my control, I was forced to alter that post and the photos that accompanied it.
Now, I am happy to say that things have changed and I can post that I'm officially grandmother to two darling little girls.  And show you pictures.  It makes me just grin, inside and out.  And giggle.  And well...so it's silly, but I'm a grandma!  And for some reason, I wasn't sure I ever wanted to be one.  But it's fun.  It's like an excuse to be the kind of parent I wished I'd been when my kids were growing up.  It's the chance to show that I've matured and realized that there are more important things than appearances.

 Grandchildren.  They're blessings for having survived our children!  lol

some movies and thoughts for today

I've been mean to write something here for a week or so, and I just haven't gotten to it.  Funny how I started this blog so long ago to do just that, and I find that I just don't have the time.  Perhaps I'm not making the time - and that's another issue all together.

First - I have to repeat a comment my daughter made last week about a movie that's coming out.  Anyone who's been around teenagers has heard of a book series called Hunger Games.  Personally, I've had no desire to read it, and fortunately my children haven't (at least the boys) wanted to read it.  My daughters read the first one and then had no desire to read further.  One of the works part time for a junior high, and said she was surprised to over hear the librarian telling teachers and students what a wonderful series it was.  It saddened her to think of how our society has changed to think this book (which is a tale of a futuristic place where the teenagers have to hunt and kill other teens in order for their families to survive) is something good to read.  I was proud that my daughter could recognize that and was strong enough to voice that thought.  I don't know if she's said anything to the librarian or any of the teachers, but still.  I'm proud.  ;)

Second - we watched two movies over the course of two weeks that were absolutely outstanding.  The first one is new to DVD and if you've seen Fireproof or Facing the Giants, then you're familiar with most of the actors in Courageous.

I had heard they were making a new one, and the Kendrick brothers don't disappoint!  There were a lot of moments of humor, some things that wouldn't have happened in real life - like one scene where they let a criminal in the back seat of a police car with a civilian, only they don't know he's a civilian, it's wayyyy funny, but wouldn't have happened.  They just don't do that.  ;)  But who cares, it was a movie, and it was great!  If you haven't seen it yet, you need to.  You'll be quoting it as a family just like Princess Bride or Fireproof.  "Snake Killers!"  lol

Anyway - then Sunday we watched Soul Surfer as a family again.

  I've seen this movie before, and I was touched by it then, though I didn't like some of the acting, etc.  This time, for some reason, I liked it more.  I was a little less critical of some of the actors (I still think Carrie Underwood is a better singer than actress) and a little more in touch.  It's an excellent movie with a great message, one that anyone from any faith will appreciate.

I hadn't meant to turn this into a review of all things media today, but that's how it worked out, so there ya have it.  The must see's for Valentines!  lol  Courageous is a definitely romantic movie for married with children.  Of course...there are better movies for that.  Like Never Been Kissed, or Runaway Bride, or Sleepless in Seattle, though I don't think that's better than You've Got Mail.  I think Turner and Hooch is a possibility as well, which will probably make a lot of you groan.  Hey - he ends up with the town vet!  lol

Anyway - hope you have a great day.  

Nothing like it

I've decided there's nothing like having a grandchild!  She is too much fun.  Even if her mother buys her the noisy toys... lol

I WON!!

Well...I had to brag  a little...for the 8th year in a row, I've Completed NANO!!  Yeah!!!  lol

I was determined to actually finish the story this time, and I did.  I ended up with 55,100 words.  Not quite the leviathans that some have done, like over 70,000 or even 100,000 -- but I'm happy with it.

Now I can go back to normal life...lol

Happy thanksgiving!!  ;)

An amazing book to read...

I got the chance to read another book for review - Outer Edge of Heaven.  Oh boy!  This was a good romance!  The author, Jaclyn M. Hawkes, told a convincing tale of life on a ranch, that made you feel like you were there.  I was laughing at some part and frustrated with people in others.


"Charlie's a girl?  When did Charlie become a girl?"


That's one of my favorite parts in this book.  It cracked me up when it was discovered that Fo (short for Forest - some fun nick names in here) the male half of two best friends has a girl (Charlie)as his best friend.  They've known each other since children.  Charlie is talked into spending her summer with Fo in Montana on a large Ranch where she ends up watching the children like a part time nanny.  There are many great adventures, some hair raising action and a great confusing romance.

If you want something that's an easy and fun read, you need to grab this.  It's totally contemporary, and a good read - so go check it out!  You can purchase it at Amazon, here's the link.


This is another blog tour, so there are plenty of other's who have done reviews of her book, so you might want to go check some out.

I have to say, the cover doesn't really do it justice, and it's not perfect - (there aren't many books that are now a-days, ya know?) but it's darn good!  I'm tempted to ask the author if there is a sequel on the way!

Go get your copy and curl up by the fireplace with a cup of chocolate.  You'll enjoy it!

Book Review - FALL - and a contest!

Okay - being acquainted with many writers (since I'm a writer...ya know...lol) I get the opportunity sometimes of reading and reviewing new published authors.  I get that privilege today.  I just finished a book by Jennifer Hurst, and man, it's a change of pace for sure.


Fall is not your typical romance, thriller or fantasy.  It's kind of like a horror movie and romance mixed into one...but I'm not sure I am doing it justice.  If you're into fantasy type stuff, with a religious edge, you'll love it.
Jennifer has a blog, so you might want to check it out.


I was pulled into the story by the unique twist.  I don't usually read books about angels or demons, so it was quite the change for me.  I wouldn't recommend it for the younger reader - the subject matter is not for youth. But otherwise, definitely something to read.


If you're into ebooks, there is a version of that too that you  might want to look into.  Here's the site to go to.


Anyway - good read.  Go find a copy and don't turn the lights off.

Along with that, the author is having a contest. Below is a list of questions about the book.  Answer the questions for a chance to win a mention in the sequel!  The more blogs you read about this book, the more you can enter your name, thus increasing your chances of winning the gift certificate, a copy of the book FALL, and your name in the sequel.

Get the book, read the book, and then read over the questions below.  Once you have your answers, e-mail them to Jennifer.  fall.jenniferhurst@gmail.com

Your privacy is respected and your email address will NOT be used for anything but the contest.   Once the contest is over - your email address will be deleted from the database.

Here are the questions for you to answer:

What does JD stand for?

What were the inscriptions on the wedding bands?

Who is Roy Parker's father?

If you would like to visit the other sites, go here for the master list of all participating sites:  http://fallbyjenniferhurst.wordpress.com/

Best of luck, and thanks for participating!

Can't sleep....sigh...so thoughts on a great movie

Okay...I've been having bouts with insomnia lately...and it really bugs me.  I'm sitting here, knowing I need to be in bed, I'm really TIRED, but all I do is lay there and my brain is going.  I try and think soothing songs, but it doesn't seem to help.  sigh.

I've been taking melatonin, but I try not to take it every night, and I thought I'd be tired enough tonight.  Also...have to get up and go to church - if I ever get to sleep.  UGH.

So, I'll talk about my wonderful hubby and the date he took me on today.  He said he had a surprise for me this morning (well...saturday) and took me off to the theaters!  I was thrilled one, because I love, I mean LOVE surprises, and two, because I like movies.  I was even more happy when he got us tickets to go see The Help.

It's kind of funny how things have been working.  I read an article on Yahoo about the author of the book, and how she'd gotten 60 rejection letters before finally getting published.  I felt like if she got that many, the book might be worth looking into.  Then on Friday I read an article on KSL about the movie, and how he really liked it.  That made me a little more interested, though kind of guardedly, because sometimes when a movie critic likes a movie, I'm not going to.  So, I looked up the trailer and watched it, and my daughter and I both thought it had promise.

So, anyway - that's what he took me to see.  It was pretty fun, we were the first ones in the theater, so we had our choice of seats.  By the time the movie started, there were more men in the theater, but they were definitely out numbered by the women.  It cracked me up.  But I digress...

The Help is definitely worth watching. It is so well done you don't even realize the amount of time that passes, as it's almost 2 and a half hours long!  The acting is so good, the characters so believable and the story so touching --  you've got to see it.  It's a great lesson in society and the culture of the 60's.  My hubby wants our children to see it, and he's already planning on buying it when it comes out on DVD.

It's strange to see the one actress playing a 'bad' role, but she does it well.  You really hate her!  lol  But anyway, I don't want to give any of it away.  Go see it, enjoy and learn.  You'll not regret it.

Okay...so then we went to do the first driving lesson for our youngest sons.  UGH.  I'm so glad my hubby is patient and willing to do this.  Granted, the older of the two managed to do better than I ever dreamed, but still...it's a manual transmission!  sigh.  We ended up spending a half hour or so at Harmons while they drove the little by roads.  They have the most fun cooking section of any grocery store!  I was in heaven.

Well...It's really late now, (or should I say early??) so I'd better try and see if I can get my brain to shut off.
Have an excellent Sunday!

Some thoughts for the day - it's finished!!

One of my favorite movies is Julie and Julia.  Mainly because it's about food, and I'm all over anything about food and how to cook it...lol  And in part because it talks about blogs and writing, the angst of a writer, which is me.  So I feel in a way that it's a movie kind of about me and what I'd love to be doing with my life.  

I've never thought about writing a cookbook, however.  I've always wanted to be a published writer of romance or something.  It's only been the past couple of months that it's been encouraged by my family to write a cookbook, so I guess that's my next project.  

Anyway - One of the reasons this has come up is I've finally made sourdough starter and sourdough bread.

That may not be a big deal for many of you...if any of you, grin.  But it has long been an ambition of mine, well ONE of my ambitions.  Another one was to build an outdoor oven and then bake the sourdough in it.  I can say that I've accomplished part of that, or two parts.  I've finally finished my oven!!!  I tell you, this is a landmark day in history!!  

This is what it looked like when I rebuilt it...I don't know if you remember the story of it's demise last fall...sigh.  IT was not pretty.  :(  But I persevered and rebuilt!!

So this is how it looks now!  You can't see the can because it's inside the mud stuff as a proper chimney.  We are going to use it this Friday, I'm soooo excited!  

And since my starter has finally grown and worked and I've made bread, I'll be making a batch of it in the oven after we're done enjoying decent pizza!!!

sigh.

Life is good.

So anyway - back to my thoughts.

I'm munching on a piece of this amazing sourdough bread, (for photos you can go to my food blog.) and thinking that I've finally achieved something I had to work at for longer than a year.  I kept at it, even though it was frustrating and discouraging.  It was becoming a joke in my family, mom's dying jar on the counter.  And I've come to the realization that apparently I like cooking more than I like writing.  I wonder why that is???  I'm not sure.  But, perhaps I can combine the two, because I will spend a whole day looking at recipes and cooking and have to force myself to write.

I have resolved several times in my life to make my writing a non-hobby occupation.  So far that has NOT happened.  sigh.  My hubby is very patient and takes it in stride, but I think it's time to get myself going and get a grip on my life.  I don't have unlimited time to explore my talents and build them.  I don't know how much time I've been given in this life.  I've been wasting it.  totally.

So, I think I'm going to rethink the writing I've been doing.  The book I've been working on is not progressing, and I don't feel any attachment to it right now.  I know that's when I really need to work at it, so I'm going to give it another try, but I'm also going to start contemplating the cookbook idea.  My hubby is going to build a website for me that involves altering recipes for people who want to shape them into lower fat, healthy things. My focus, therefore, is going to be more on food.  Since I haven't published anything that makes anyone want to come hunt me down and beg for another story (other than my neighbors), this won't be a heartache to many.  Say la vie.  I'm sure things will change in a year or so, the writing bug never leaves me for long.

I hope you find me in a better place next year.  Be sure and check my food blog for photos of the pizza on Friday!!  We know how to party at my house...lol