Everyday is a pajama day...

The Darth Vader Voice

2011-08-08T16:33:00.001-10:00

We have a new rule in our house: If you want to whine or complain, you have to do it in a Darth Vader voice. It has been so much fun to watch the kids realize how whiney they really are. I laugh every time!

The Parable of the Push-ups

2011-06-01T10:49:00.006-10:00

Steve was told that he could not be late for Brother Christianson's Seminary, so he arrived just seconds before the bell rang and he would sit in the very back of the room. He would also be the first to leave after the class was over.

One day, Brother Christianson asked Steve to stay after class so he could talk with him. After class, Brother Christianson pulled Steve aside and said, "You think you're pretty tough, don't you?".

Steve's answer was, "Yeah, I do."

Then Brother Christianson asked, "How many push-ups can you do?"

Steve said, "I do about 200 every night."

"200? That's pretty good, Steve." Brother Christianson said, "Do you think you could do 300?"

Steve replied, "I don't know... I've never done 300 at a time."

"Do you think you could?" again asked Brother Christianson.

"Well, I could try," said Steve.

"Can you do 300 in sets of 10? I have a class project and I need you to do about 300 push-ups in sets of ten for this to work. Can you do it? I need you to tell me you can do it," said Brother Christianson.

Steve said, "Well... I think I can... yeah, I can do it."

Brother Christianson said, "Good! I need you to do this on Friday. Let me explain what I have in mind."

Friday came and Steve got to class early and sat in the front of the room. When class started, the professor pulled out a big box of donuts. Now these weren't the normal kind of donuts, these were the big fancy kind, with cream centers and frosting swirls. Everyone was pretty excited that it was Friday, the last class of the day, and they were going to get an early start on the weekend with a party in Brother Christianson's class.

Brother Christianson went to the first girl in the first row and asked, "Cynthia would you like one of these donuts?" Cynthia said, "Yes please."

Brother Christianson then turned to Steve and asked, "Steve, would you please do ten push-ups so that Cynthia may have a donut?"

"Sure." Steve jumped down from the desk, did ten quick push-ups, and then returned to his desk. Brother Christianson put a donut on Cynthia's desk.

Brother Christianson then went to Joe, the next person, and asked, "Joe do you want a donut?"

Joe said, "Yes."

The teacher asked, "Steve would you do ten push-ups so Joe can have a donut?"

Steve did ten push-ups and Joe got a donut. And so it went, down the first aisle. Steve did ten push-ups for each person before they received a donut. Brother Christianson continued down the second aisle until he came to Scott.

Scott was on the basketball team, and in as good of physical condition as Steve. Scott was popular and never lacking friends. When the teacher asked, "Scott would you like a donut?"

Scott's reply was, "Yes, if I can do my own push-ups."

Brother Christianson said, "No, Steve has to do them."

Scott said, "Then I don't want one"

The teacher shrugged and then turned to Steve and asked, "Steve, would you do ten push-ups so Scott can have the donut he doesn't want?"

With perfect obedience Steve started to do the push-ups.

Scott yelled, "HEY! I said I didn't want one!"

Brother Christianson said sternly, "Look, this is my class, these are my desks, and these are my donuts. Just leave it on the desk if you don't want it" And he put a donut on Scott's desk.

Now by this time, Steve had begun to perspire and was starting to slow down a little. He just stayed on the floor between sets because it took too much effort to get up and down. As Brother Christianson started down the third row, many students were beginning to get a little angry.

Brother. Christianson asked Jenny, "Jenny, do you want a donut?"

Jenny's answer was a firm, "No!"

Then Brother. Christianson asked Steve, "Steve, would you do ten more push-ups so Jenny can have a donut that she doesn't want?" Steve did ten...Jenny got a donut.

By now, a growing sense of uneasiness filled the room. The students were beginning to say "No" and there were all these uneaten donuts on the desks. Steve also had to put forth a lot of extra effort to get these push-ups done for each donut. There was a pool of sweat on the floor beneath his face and his arms were beginning to turn red because of the physical effort being put forth.

Because Brother Christianson could no longer bear to watch Steve's hard work go for all these uneaten donuts, he asked Robert, the most vocal unbeliever in the class, to watch Steve do each push-up to make sure he did all ten in each set.

As the teacher started down the fourth row, he noticed some students from other classes had wandered in and sat down on the steps along the radiators that ran down the sides of the room. He did a quick count and saw that there were now thirty-four students in the room. He started to worry that Steve would not be able to make it. He went on to the next person and the next and the next. Near the end of the row, Steve was really having a hard time. It was taking a lot more time to complete each set.

Just then, Jason, a recent transfer student, came to the room. He was about to enter when at once all of the students yelled, "NO!! Don't come in!!" Jason didn't know what was going on.

Steve picked up his head and said, "No, let him come."

Brother Christianson said, "You realize that if Jason comes in you will have to do ten push-ups for him?"

"Yes, let him come in. Give him a donut."

Brother Christianson said, "Okay Steve, I'll let you get Jason's out of the way right now. Jason, do you want a donut?"

Not even knowing what was going on, Jason said, "Yes, I'll have a donut."

"Steve, will you do ten push-ups so that Jason can have a donut?"

Steve did ten very slow and labored push-ups. Jason, bewildered, was handed a donut and sat down.

Brother Christianson finished the fourth row and started on the visitors seated by the radiators. Steve's arms were now shaking with each push-up in a struggle to lift himself against the force of gravity. Sweat was profusely dripping off of his face and there was no sound except his heavy breathing. By this time, there was not a dry eye in the room.

The very last two students in the room were two young women, both cheerleaders, and very well-liked. Brother Christianson went to Linda and asked if she wanted a donut.

Linda said, very sadly, "No, thank you."

The professor quietly asked, "Steve, would you do ten push-ups so that Linda can have a donut she doesn't want?" Grunting from the effort, Steve did ten very slow push-ups for Linda.

The Brother Christianson turned to the last girl, Susan "Susan, do you want a donut?"

Susan, with tears streaming down her face pleaded, "Brother Christianson, why can't I help him?"

Brother Christianson, with tears of his own, explained, "No, Steve has to do it alone. I have given him this task and he is in charge of seeing that everyone here has an opportunity for a donut whether they want it or not. When I decided to have a party this last day of class, I looked at my grade book. Steve is the only student with a perfect grade. Everyone else has failed a test, skipped class, or offered up inferior work. Steve told me that in football practice when a player messes up, he has to do push-ups. I told Steve that none of you could come to the party unless he paid the price by doing your push-ups. He and I made a deal for your sakes. Steve, would you do ten push-ups so Susan can have a donut?"

As Steve very slowly finished his last push-up, with the understanding that he had accomplished all that was required of him, having done 350 push-ups, his arms buckled beneath him and he fell to the floor.

Brother Christianson turned to the room and said, "And so it was, that our Savior, Jesus Christ, plead to the Father, 'into Thy hands I commend my spirit.' With the understanding that He had accomplished all that was required of Him, He yielded up His life for us. And like some of those in this room, many leave the gift on the desk, uneaten."

Two students helped Steve up off the floor and to a seat, physically exhausted, but wearing a thin smile.

"Well done good and faithful servant," said the teacher, adding, "Not all testimonies are preached in words."

Brother Christianson then said, "And so it was, that our Savior, Jesus Christ, pleaded to the Father, "Into thy hands I commend my spirit", and with the understanding that He had done everything that was required of Him, collapsed on the cross and died - even for those that didn't want His gift."

Reminders at the door...

2011-03-01T07:17:00.001-10:00

Did you think to:

Shower? Eat?

Brush Your Teeth?

Brush Your Hair?

Pack a Lunch?

Water Bottle?

Glasses?

Pray?

I love you © Mom

Math Website

2011-02-04T15:27:00.001-10:00

http://www.ixl.com/

D&C 88:119

2010-12-25T00:09:00.000-10:00

Organize yourselves; prepare every needful thing; and establish a house, even a house of prayer, a house of fasting, a house of faith, a house of learning, a house of glory, a house of order, a house of God.

D&C 123:17

2010-12-12T22:09:00.001-10:00

Therefore, dearly beloved brethren, let us cheerfully do all things that lie in our power; and then may we stand still, with the utmost assurance, to see the salvation of God, and for his arm to be revealed.

Carpet Stain Removal

2010-11-17T08:07:00.001-10:00

Tools needed:

1. Steam Iron

2. WHITE hand towel

3. Stain Remover ( Always perform a test in a non-conspicuous area to insure color wear & fastness)

Steps

1. Apply stain remover- do not over apply, just get the damaged fibers moist with the chemical

2. Fold hand towel in half and place over stain (you are doubling the thickness of the towel)

3. Fill Steam Iron with water, set to MAX steam and turn dial to Wool Setting

4. Place iron on top of towel and stain. The steam raises the stain into the towel. BEWARE- if you see the towel start to show burns on the top level, keep an eye on the carpet very closely.

If the stain does not at least lighten in the first 5 minutes, wait for a Pro.

If the stain comes out in the first 5 min -GOOD JOB! If it only lightens, repeat the process until you arrive at success.

2010-11-07T11:27:00.002-10:00

Mint Chocolate Chip Cookies

1 cup butter, softened
1 1/2 cups white sugar
2 eggs
2 tsp vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
2/3 cup cocoa powder
3/4 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp salt
2 cups mint chocolate chips

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). In large bowl, beat butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla until light and fluffy. In another bowl, whisk the flour, cocoa, baking soda, and salt together. Stir the flour mixture into the butter mixture until well blended. Mix in the mint chocolate chips. Drop by rounded teaspoonfuls onto some prepared cookie sheets. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes in the preheated oven, or just until set. Cool slightly on the cookie sheets before transferring off to cool completely.

20 Things That Will Take You Further in Life Than Good Grades

2010-08-31T14:49:00.001-10:00

By Sheri Reed

Getting an education. Odds are you've forgotten 90% of what you were tested on in school. The 10% you remember? That's education.
Being excited about learning. So your kid comes home with a B or even a C ... what's more worrisome is if he or she comes home bored and unexcited about learning.
Tying your shoelaces. Not to stress those of you with 4- and 5-year-olds out, but your kid's not going to go very far in life without this skill. Literally. It's really hard to walk.
Being just bad enough. Here's a life lesson that will take your kids further in school, college, work, and life. There's a fine line between having fun and ending up in the principal's office.
Learning to accept your authentic self. Your kids might not be "A" students, but if they are working hard and not slacking off, then less-than-perfect grades are fine. Parental love and acceptance is more important than perfect grades.
Knowing what your true skills are. Graduate school was very hard for me at times. I'll never forget a professor who acknowledged the importance of the person in the discussion group (me) who "added humor" and "lightened up the overly serious people." Your kids' assets may not be the traditional academic kind.
Staying sane. Never underestimate the importance of good mental and emotional health over studying day in and day out. Kids who are pushed too hard often crack under the pressure.
Being a good friend. School can be a sandbox for figuring out who you are and how you relate to other people. You develop your social skills and forge relationships that will teach you for a lifetime -- things like "treat others how you want to be treated." And while learning to be be a good friend, your kids will also learn to other important lessons like how to lose friends, end unhealthy friendships, and move on.
Failing can be a gift. Watching your kids fail is a tough one for most parents. Like many things in life though, sometimes we need to fail something before we can master it.
Understanding your process. Educational failures can also be eye-opening revelations for a student (i.e., "I learn by reading/writing/discussing/doing") and can help them to learn valuable things about their personalities, their work styles, their limitations, what does and doesn't work for them, and what they really want to learn.
Being a good sport. Whether in actual sports or other competitive activities like debate team, your kids can pick up important life skills like the rewards of a competitive spirit, working as part of a team,persevering through loss, and that competition always makes you better -- even if you don't win every time.
Being well rounded. A good education isn't straight out of a textbook. Extracurricular activitiesand electives like Photography and Wood Shop develop skills beyond academics and help provide skills your kids can take far beyond schooling.
Questioning authority. The sooner the better on this one and, of course, learning to do it with respect and tact. Teachers (and bosses) don't know everything and are often far from perfect.
Reading can be fun. And the kind of reading you're forced to do to get straight As isn't always the fun kind. Sometimes! But not always.
Being perfect is more harmful than helpful. How many employers have ever checked your GPA? None, right? If being perfect is killing your child with stress or panic or ruining her love of learning, taking it down a notch might be more beneficial.
Having good "people" skills. It's not what you know but who you know, right? Being able to network with the right people and work with all kinds of people -- especially the difficult ones -- is a profound asset in work and in life.
Knowing the most important skill set for your career path. Unless your child is determined to be a doctor or a lawyer, reading until one's eyes bleed may not be the most important skill set. Making powerful friends, getting key references, building a great resume, learning a job-specific skill, or gaining hands-on experience might actually serve them better.
Being able to prioritize well. This will help you be more successful in 90% of the critical areas of your life: work, health, money, marriage, kids.
Living a balanced life. The guy who does the best job at work doesn't necessarily have the best life. In fact, if he spends so much time on work, he may be, in fact, neglecting other areas in life like: building relationships, relaxing, having fun.
Getting an education is critical. Even if your child is not making straight As or going for valedictorian, there's sure a heck of a lot of important stuff to learn!

What lessons that you learned in school have taken you farther in life than good grades?

5 Kinds of Overeating

2010-08-22T19:45:00.002-10:00

Social Trigger – eating to fit in. Do you plan all your social activities around food or in places with mostly unhealthy food choices.

Emotional Trigger – eating to avoid feeling bad, lonely, bored, angry, etc…It is a bottomless pit. You will still feel the same or worse way after you are done eating.

Situational Trigger – eating because the opportunity is there. You see a commercial, walk by a display, or associate food with an activity like watching TV, going to the movies, sitting at the computer, etc... This includes anything that creates a craving.

Thoughts Trigger – eating because of negative self worth and/or image.This often leads to binge eating. This is often why “diets” don’t work. You feel deprived and discouraged. What are you saying to yourself? Stop unhealthy thoughts and demeaning conversations in your own head. You don't have to listen to them anymore!

Physiological Trigger – eating to cope with physical pain. Do you eat when injured or tired? This can also be hunger pain from skipping meals.

How can you overcome these triggers?

Which ones do you do? Keep a food diary. Helps you notice patterns of overeating and your triggers. It is not about policing yourself. It is about understanding yourself.

Think of 10 things you can do instead of eating. Write them down on a card and carry it around with you, so you are prepared. Make your choices simple and realistic. When you feel the urge to snack, pick something from your list and do it. Break your bad habits and replace them with good ones.

Learn some relaxation techniques. – learn to cope with your issues in other ways like: words of affirmation, deep breathing, meditation, prayer, exercise, etc…

Have good non-food rewards for achieving your goals.

Stay hydrated – sometimes we feel hungry when we really need water.

Take Shape for Life

I am a Mother

2010-07-06T22:42:00.002-10:00

2010-07-06T21:43:00.002-10:00

If You Come Across an Angel

Every day, in the world around us, real live angels are doing things they do

and bringing more smiles to the world around them.

Real life angels build bridges instead of walls.

They don’t play hide and seek with the truth, and they don’t have hidden agendas.

They tend to be the ones who understand what you’re going through.

If they sense that you been hurting, they do whatever they can to help you.

Real-life angels understand difficulties and always give the benefit of the doubt.

They don’t hold others up to standards they can’t live by themselves.

Real-life angels are what “inner beauty” is all about.

Real-life angels don’t hold things against you; the only thing they hold is you.

They walk beside you when you could use a little guidance and direction in your life.

And they support you in your attempts to do what is right.

Real-life angels multiply your smiles and add to your integrity.

If you come across an angel like this, you are one of the luckiest people of all.

April Fool's Cupcakes

2010-03-31T19:46:00.001-10:00

You take a normal meatloaf recipe. Divide it up into 12 balls. Cook the mini meatloaves in paper cup lined muffin tins. Cook as directed. Then you mix up some mashed potatoes and add any food coloring you would like. Decorate the cooked meatloaf cupcakes with the colored mashed potatoes and serve warm. You could also make one large meatloaf pie or cake.

Psalms 27:14

2010-03-02T12:26:00.000-10:00

Wait on the Lord: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the Lord.

Mardi Gras Wreath

2010-01-26T12:12:00.000-10:00

I wanted something for my front door to celebrate Mardi Gras. I used a old grapevine wreath and tried green, purple, and yellow ribbons on it. Then I attached a long strand of beads and a mask.

No Tea Chi Mix

2010-01-16T21:29:00.002-10:00

3 cups non-fat dry milk
1 1/2 cups sugar
3/4 cup non-dairy creamer
1 1/2 tsp ground ginger
1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp cardamom
1/2 tsp cloves
1/2 tsp coriander
1/2 tsp white pepper

Whisk together well. Serve mixed in hot water whenever you would like a little hot spiced milk. Makes a great gift!

A New Year - A New You!!!

2010-01-14T16:00:00.002-10:00

Here are some other tips for focusing on a healthy lifestyle this year:

1. Drink only water – your body need more water than most people take in. Why drink your calories, when water is better for you & calorie free? You should be drinking around 64 oz or a 2 litter of water everyday.

2. Go for a walk every morning to get your day started. I find it to very relaxing and invigorating. It really helps boast your metabolism for the day.

3. Eat small, well balanced meals 5 or 6 times a day. This helps your body get into a better fat burning routine. You eat just enough calories to keep your body working hard and able to burn off the calories as you intake them.

4. Take the time to pamper yourself with some exercise every day. After a week or two your body will love it! It helps your body relax and release hidden stress. This can really help if you have a hard time sleeping at night.

5. Breathe deeply through your nose. Don't hold your breath while you are exercising. Inhale while your muscles are relaxed & exhale while they are stressed. Your muscles and brain will thank you!

6. Start substituting more fresh foods into your diet. I have been amazed at how much easier it is to cook fresh and simple meals such as grilled chicken/fish and steamed vegetables. You will feel great after eating this way.

7. Watch your portion sizes. A normal sized meal can fit onto an 8 inch plate (or a typical salad plate). Beware of the typical American sized dinner/restaurant plates that are 10 to 14 inches or more. Those are considered platters. No wonder we eat so much.

8. Work on breaking bad eating habits such as:
• Stop using food as a reward.
• Stop planning activities around what food you will serve.
• Stop eating the food leftover off other people’s plates (for me the kids) or taking 2nd, 3rd helpings. (Yes there are people starving in the world, but you being overweight does not help them.)
• Don’t eat in the car, in front of the TV, or while you are on the computer. It creates improper connections and associations. Only eat at the table during meal times.
• Avoid using fast food as a fall back when you are stressed or overscheduled. Plan ahead by preparing meals ahead of time or packing a lunch/snack in case you are busy during a meal time.
• Avoid the junk food isles in the store. You can cut your time in half almost by skipping all those isles and save a lot of money!

New Year Cleaning

2010-01-02T08:22:00.001-10:00

Check the expiration date on your yeast, baking soda, and baking powder.

Test your yeast:

But one cup of warm water, 1 tsp of sugar and 1 Tbs of yeast in a bowl together and let sit for 10 minutes. Make sure it has begun to expand and bubble.

Test your baking soda:

Mix a tsp of vinegar and a tsp of baking soda together. It should bubble like a 2nd grade volcano science experiment. If it doesn't, it is time to get some new baking soda

Test your baking powder:

Put a tsp of baking powder in a cup of hot water. It should bubble and spat (it is releasing carbon dioxide). If it doesn't, it won't help your baked goods rise and you need some new baking powder.

Taken from http://bedifferentactnormal.blogspot.com/

Baby Shower Ideas

2010-01-01T19:08:00.004-10:00

Mommy Spa Day - Take the mom-to-be to the spa for a massage, pedicure, manicure, etc... or Have a massage therapist come to your party to do chair massage for everyone. It is a blast. You can paint the mom-to-be's toes any color you want; she can't see them!

Have a Baby Shower Day - Have all the friends/family sign-up for an hour starting with breakfast in the morning to drop by and visit the mother to be. This one is great for women on bedrest or that already have children. Each friend drops by with a gift and a hug to brighten the mom-to-be's day. Don't forget to include meals for the mom & family.

It's Raining Chocolate - Have an all chocolate party! This is a great way to chat & swap recipes. You can play the candy bar game - you melt down candy bars & try to guess which one is which.

Mom's Night Out - Take the mom-to-be out for a night on the town. This one is easy to organize and fun for everyone involved. Eveyone but the new mom pays their own way.

Scrapbooking Baby - Have everyone put together a couple of super cute scrapbook pages (photos to be added later) for the new baby.

Designer Baby Shower - Have a party that focuses on learning to make home baby gifts and products.

Mother Goose Shower - This party is centered around baby books. There are so many possibilities of things to do.

Mad Hatter Baby Shower - Everyone wears a fun hat! Have a whimsical tea party and play funny games.

A Long Distance Baby Shower - A lot of us can't always be there for the important moments in our families lives, so send some love anyway. Have everyone send a present on the same day. Video tape special messages like singing songs to the baby or reading books to the baby. Web cam the party with the mom-to-be a post it for everyone else to party along with where ever they are.

Favorite Things Baby Shower - Everyone bring gifts that represent your favorite baby items for the new mom. That way she gets some great shopping advice. Everyone can also bring their favorite treat to share. This is a great way to bring together party guest that don't really know each other and start conversation.

Easy Fudge

2009-11-03T21:52:00.000-10:00

3 cups (18 oz.) semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 (14 oz.) can Sweetened Condensed Milk
Dash salt
1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Line 8 or 9 inch square pan with foil, extending foil over edges of pan. Melt chocolate chips with sweetened condensed milk and salt in heavy saucepan over low heat. Remove from heat. Stir in vanilla. Spread evenly into prepared pan. Chill 2 hours or until firm. Remove from pan by lifting edges of foil. Cut into squares.

Chocolate Chocolate Chip

2009-11-03T21:44:00.001-10:00

1 cup butter, softened
1 1/2 cups white sugar
2 eggs
2 tsp vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
2/3 cup cocoa powder
3/4 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp salt
2 cups semisweet chocolate chips

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). In large bowl, beat butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla until light and fluffy. Combine the flour, cocoa, baking soda, and salt; stir into the butter mixture until well blended. Mix in the chocolate chips and walnuts. Drop by rounded teaspoonfuls onto prepared cookie sheets. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes in the preheated oven, or just until set. Cool slightly on the cookie sheets before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.

Aloha Cookies

2009-11-03T21:31:00.000-10:00

1/2 cup sugar
1 cup brown sugar
1 cup shortening
2 eggs
2 cups & 1/2 tsp flour
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp salt
1 tsp vanilla
1 cup oatmeal
1/2 cup white chocolate chips
1/2 cup coconut
1/2 cup macadamia nuts

Put the sugar and brown sugar together and mix. Then add the shortening and mix that all together good. Then add the eggs and mix really well. Then sift in the flour, baking soda and salt. Mix, Mix, Mix. Then add the vanilla and mix again. Then add the oatmeal, chocolate chips, and nuts and mix AGAIN. I swear all this mixing makes these the best. Bake at 350 for 7 minutes until light golden brown. Let them sit on the rack for about an hour before eating. If you eat one before they will seem like they are not done. Just be patient.

Toffee Cookies

2009-11-03T21:29:00.000-10:00

1 cup real butter, softened
1 Cup brown sugar, light
1 Cup white granulated sugar
1 tsp vanilla
2 eggs
2 Cups all purpose flour
1/4 tsp salt
1/4 tsp baking soda
1 bag toffee candy bits
1 Cup chocolate chips
1 Cup oatmeal
1 Cup flaked coconut
1 Cup chopped almonds

Preheat oven to 350. Cream the butter, sugar and vanilla. Beat the eggs slightly then add to butter mixture and mix well. Sift flour, salt and baking soda; then add slowly to the moist ingredients and mix well. Mix in toffee bits, chocolate chips, oatmeal, coconut and nuts until just combined. Drop dough by the teaspoonful onto an prepared baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are just golden brown.

Paula Deen's Pumpkin Bars

2009-11-03T21:21:00.001-10:00

4 eggs
1 – 2/3 cups granulated sugar
1 cup oil
One 15 ounce can pumpkin
2 cups sifted all-purpose flour
2 tsp baking powder
2 tsp ground cinnamon
1 tsp salt
1 tsp baking soda

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Combine the eggs, sugar, oil, and pumpkin until light and fluffy. Stir together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, salt, and baking soda. Add the dry ingredients to the pumpkin mixture and mix until the batter is smooth. Spread the batter in a prepared 13 by 10 inch baking pan or muffin tins. Bake for about 30 minutes. Let cool completely before frosting.

ICING
One pkg. cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup (1 stick) butter
2 cups sifted confectioners’ sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract

Combine the cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add the sugar and mix at low speed until smooth. Add the sugar and mix at low speed until combined. Stir in the vanilla and mix again. Spread on cooled pumpkin bars.

White Honey Bread

2009-09-26T15:08:00.000-10:00

2 packages (1/4 ounce each) active dry yeast
2-1/2 cups warm water (110° to 115°)
1/2 cup butter, melted
1/2 cup honey
2 eggs
3 teaspoons salt
8 to 9 cups all-purpose flour

In a large bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water. Add the butter, honey, eggs, salt and 4 cups flour. Beat on medium for 3 minutes. Stir in enough remaining flour to form a soft dough. Turn onto a floured surface; knead until smooth and elastic, about 6-8 minutes. Place in a greased bowl, turning once to grease top. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled; about 1 hour. Punch dough down. Divide into thirds. Shape into loaves. Place in three greased 8-in. x 4-in. loaf pans. Cover and let rise until doubled, about 30 minutes. Bake at 375° for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from pans to wire racks to cool. Yield: 3 loaves (16 slices each).

Chicken Noodle Soup

2009-09-26T15:03:00.000-10:00

1 Tbs. olive oil
2/3 cup onion, chopped
1/2 cup celery, chopped
2 boxes Swanson’s chicken broth
2 chicken breast, cooked & diced
1 – 2 cups of sea shell noodles
4 carrots (sliced)
1/2 tsp. basil (dried)
1/2 tsp. oregano (dried)
2 tsp chicken paste or bullion
salt and pepper

In a large pot heat Olive Oil. Add in the celery and onions and cook until tender (5-6 minutes). Pour in chicken broth and add the chicken , sea shell noodles, carrots, basil, oregano, chicken paste (bullion), salt and pepper. Bring everything to a boil for about 5 minutes and then reduce the heat to a simmer for about 25 minutes.

Creamy Italian Chicken

2009-09-25T13:36:00.002-10:00

4- 6 chicken breasts
1 dry packet Italian Dressing Mix
2 cans cream of Chicken Soup
1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened

Put chicken breasts in crock pot. Sprinkle with dry Italian dressing mix. Mix cream cheese and soup in separate bowl. Pour over chicken. Cook on low all day ( 6 - 8 hours). Serve over rice or noodles. (Add milk if needed to thin sauce out)

My New Mommy Motto!!!

2009-09-25T13:33:00.001-10:00

Philippians 4:13

"I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me. "

Pizza Dough

2009-09-18T04:36:00.000-10:00

1 package (1/4 ounce) active dry yeast
3/4 cup warm milk (110° to 115°)
1 tbsp honey
2 cups bread flour

In a large bowl, dissolve yeast in warm milk. Stir in honey until well blended. Add flour one cup at a time. Beat until smooth to form a soft dough. Turn onto a floured surface; knead until smooth and elastic; about 5 minutes. Use to make pizza, Stromboli, calzones, etc. Bake at 400 degrees for 10 – 15 minutes until lightly brown.

Cream Cheese Whipped Frosting

2009-09-11T10:16:00.000-10:00

1 8oz. package cream cheese, softened
1 cup white sugar
1 tsp. vanilla
1 1/2 cups heavy cream

Beat the cream cheese, sugar and vanilla together until smooth.

In another bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.

Fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture.

by The Recipe Link

Yummy Crockpot Teriyaki

2009-09-10T08:34:00.004-10:00

3 - 4 lbs. pork roast or chicken breast (or beef)
1 cup brown sugar
1/3 cup unsweetened apple juice
1/3 soy sauce
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp pepper
2 tbsp cornstarch
3 tbsp cold water

Cut roast in half & rub with brown sugar. Place roast in crockpot. Pour apple juice and soy sauce over roast (or chicken). Season with salt and pepper. Cover and cook on low for 6 hours til tender.

Remove meat, cover, and let stand for 15 minutes. Meanwhile, strain the juices and return them to the crockpot. Combine the cornstarch and water until smooth. Whisk that into the crockpot. Cover and cook on high for 15 minutes. Slice the meat and serve with the gravy. Yield 6 - 8 servings.

by Recipe Zaar

Yummy Apple Dip

2009-08-09T23:13:00.001-10:00

2 pkg. cream cheese, softened or whipped
1 cup brown sugar
½ cup caramel topping

Whip all ingredients together until fluffy. Serve with sliced apples and assorted fruit. Refrigerate leftovers.

Brooke's Salsa

2009-08-09T23:11:00.001-10:00

1 can corn
1 can black beans, drained
3 large tomatoes, chopped
1 large avocados, chopped
2 Tbs chopped green onions
1 package dry Italian dressing
2 Tbs olive oil
1/4 cup white vinegar
3 Tbs water

In a large bowl mix corn, peas, tomatoes, avocados and onions. In another bowl mix the dry Italian dressing, olive oil, vinegar and water. Pour the dressing over the vegetable mixture and toss until evenly coated. Serve with tortilla chips.

*Best made the night before so the flavors can mix (keeping the avocado out until needed).

2009-08-09T23:03:00.002-10:00

"To laugh often and much; to win the respect of intelligent people and the affection of children; to earn the appreciation of honest critics and endure the betrayal of false friends; to appreciate beauty; to find the best in others; to leave the world a bit better, whether by a healthy child, a garden patch, or a redeemed social condition; to know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived. This is to have succeeded."

- Ralph Waldo Emerson

Monkey Pudding

2009-07-21T21:41:00.002-10:00

2 1/2 cups milk
1 (6oz) box banana pudding
1 can sweetened condensed milk
1 container whipped topping
1/2 box of vanilla wafers
2 cups mini marshmallows (multi-colored)

Mix the milk, pudding mix, condensed milk, & 1/2 whipped topping until it thickens somewhat. Add in 1/2 the marshmallows. Put 1/2 the vanilla wafers on the bottom of your dish. Pour the pudding over the wafers. Add the rest of the whipped topping. Decorate with the leftover wafers and marshmallows. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.

Malachi 3:3

2009-07-21T12:28:00.002-10:00

There was a group of women in a Bible study on the book of Malachi. As they were studying chapter three, they came across verse three which says: "He will sit as a refiner and purifier of silver." (Malachi 3:3) This verse puzzled the women and they wondered what this statement meant about the character and nature of God.

One of the women offered to find out about the process of refining silver and get back to the group at their next Bible study. That week this woman called up a silver smith and made an appointment to watch him at work. She didn't mention anything about the reason for her interest in silver beyond her curiosity about the process of refining silver. As she watched the silver smith, he held a piece of silver over the fire and let it heat up. He explained that in refining silver, one needed to hold the silver in the middle of the fire where the flames were hottest as to burn away all the impurities. The woman thought about God holding us in such a hot spot--then she thought again about the verse, that he sits as a refiner and purifier of silver.

She asked the silver smith if it was true that he had to sit there in front of the fire the whole time the silver was being refined. The man answered that yes, he not only had to sit there holding the silver, but he had to keep his eyes on the silver the entire time it was in the fire. If the silver was left even a moment too long in the flames, it would be destroyed. The woman was silent for a moment. Then she asked the silver smith, "How do you know when the silver is fully refined?"

He smiled at her and answered, "Oh, that's easy--when I see my image in it."

If today you are feeling the heat of the fire, remember that God has His eye on you.

Author unknown

2009-07-21T12:21:00.000-10:00

Play is the highest form of research

- Albert Einstein

"Welcome To Holland" by Emily Pearl Kingsley

2009-07-11T21:47:00.002-10:00

She writes:
I am often asked to describe the experience of raising a child with a disability - to try to help people who have not shared that unique experience to understand it, to imagine how it would feel.It's like this . . .

When you're going to have a baby, it's like planning a fabulous vacation trip - to Italy. You buy a bunch of guidebooks and make your wonderful plans. The Coliseum, the Michelangelo's David, the gondolas in Venice. You may learn some handy phrases in Italian. It's all very exciting. After months of eager anticipation, the day finally arrives. You pack your bags and off you go.

Several hours later, the plane lands. The stewardess comes and says, "Welcome to Holland." "Holland?" you say. "What do you mean Holland? I signed up for Italy! I'm supposed to be in Italy. All my life I've dreamed of going to Italy." But there's been a change in the flight plan. They've landed in Holland and there you must stay.The important thing is that they haven't taken you to a horrible, disgusting, filthy place full of pestilence, famine and disease. It's just a different place.

So you go out and buy new guidebooks. And you must learn a whole new language. And you will meet a whole new group of people you would never have met. It's just a different place.It's slower paced than Italy, less flashy than Italy. But after you've been there for a while and you catch your breath, you look around, and you begin to notice that Holland has windmills, Holland has tulips, Holland even has Rembrandts. But everyone you know is busy coming and going from Italy, and they're all bragging about what a wonderful time they had there. And for the rest of your life, you will say, "Yes, that's where I was supposed to go. That's what I had planned."

The pain of that will never go away, because the loss of that dream is a very significant loss. But if you spend your life mourning the fact that you didn't get to Italy, you will never be free to enjoy the very special, very lovely things about Holland.

2009-04-06T14:03:00.001-10:00

Proverbs 3:5-6

"Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths."

2009-04-06T13:56:00.000-10:00

D&C 84:88

"And whoso receiveth you, there I will be also, for I will go before your face. I will be on your right hand and on your left, and my Spirit shall be in your hearts, and mine angels round about you, to bear you up."

Italian Easter Bread

2009-04-01T12:55:00.001-10:00

3 to 3-1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup sugar
1 pkg (1/4 ounce) active dry yeast
1 tsp salt
2/3 cup warm milk (120° to 130°)
2 Tbsp butter, softened
7 eggs
1/2 cup chopped mixed candied fruit
1/4 cup chopped blanched almonds
1/2 tsp aniseed
Vegetable oil

In a bowl, combine 1 cup flour, sugar, yeast and salt. Add milk and butter; beat 2 minutes on medium. Add 2 eggs and 1/2 cup flour; beat 2 minutes on high. Stir in fruit, nuts and aniseed; mix well. Stir in enough remaining flour to form a soft dough. Turn onto a lightly floured surface; knead until smooth and elastic, 6-8 minutes. Place in a greased bowl; turn once to grease top. Cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 1 hour. If desired, dye remaining eggs (leave them uncooked); lightly rub with oil. Punch dough down. Divide in half; roll each piece into a 24-in. rope. Loosely twist ropes and tuck eggs into openings. Cover and let rise until doubled, about 30 minutes. Bake at 350° for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from pan; cool on a wire rack.

A Taste of Home Recipe

Military Wives Prayer

2009-03-05T13:21:00.000-10:00

Dear Lord,

Give me the greatness of heart to see the difference between duty and his love for me.
Give me understanding that I may know, when duty calls him he must go.
Give me a task to do each day, to fill the time when he's away.
And Lord, when he's in a foreign land, keep him safe in your loving hand.
And Lord, when duty is in the field, please protect him and be his shield.
And Lord, when deployment is so long, please stay with me and keep me strong.
Amen.

~Author Unknown~

Month of moving

2009-03-02T07:57:00.000-10:00

We just completed a major cross country move last month. Sorry about not posting last month - kinda busy. I thought this month I would think up some fun ideas about traveling/moving with kids. I will get back to ya soon with that

Hope you are enjoying the start of spring!

2009-01-15T12:33:00.000-10:00

Cheese Fondue

1 can (10&3/4/ oz) condensed cheddar cheese soup
1 cup shredded Cheddar, Swiss, or Parmesan cheese
2 green onions chopped
1/8 tsp. garlic powder
Dash of red pepper sauce
Various kinds of dipping food

Heat soup and cheese over medium heat. Stir occasionally until cheese is melted. Stir in onion, garlic powder, and red pepper sauce. If fondue is too thick, thin with apple juice. Serve hot with: Croutons, French bread, Rolls, cooked chicken or ham, broccoli, cauliflower, olives, onions, peppers, tomatoes, etc.

2009-01-15T12:32:00.000-10:00

Carbonara

1/4 cup olive oil
2 cloves minced garlic
1 onion, chopped
8-12 slices turkey bacon
2 egg whites
1 pkg spaghetti or linguine
1 cup Parmesan cheese
Basil or parsley for garnish

Cook the pasta as per the directions. While that is cooking, combine olive oil, garlic, onion and bacon in a frying pan. Cook until the bacon is done. In a bowl, beat egg whites with salt, and ground pepper. Drain pasta when done, and immediately add egg mixture to pasta. Stir the egg mixture until it is well mixed with the pasta. Cover and let sit for about 2 minutes so the steam can cook the eggs. Pour in the bacon mixture over the pasta and mix. Finish with the Parmesan cheese and serve.

2009-01-15T12:26:00.000-10:00

Party Taco Salad

1 lb. ground beef
1 pkg. taco seasoning
1 can kidney beans or black beans, rinsed and drained
1 can of whole corn, drained
1 can of medium black olives, drained
1 large tomato, diced
1 head of lettuce, shredded
2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
1 pkg tortilla chips

Cook the ground beef. Drain grease and mix in taco seasoning according to the packet. In a large serving bowl, combine all the ingredients. Mix lightly. Serve with your favorite salad dressing.

2009-01-15T12:22:00.000-10:00

Swiss Steak

1 ½ lb tenderized round steak
½ green pepper, diced
½ onion, diced
1-2 chopped celery stalks
2 cans tomato soup
1 can water
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

Brown the steak and set aside. Saute pepper, onion, and celery till soft. Add back in the beef with the tomato soup, water, and Worcestershire sauce. Simmer for 30-45 min and serve over rice.

2009-01-15T12:18:00.000-10:00

Beef Stroganoff

1 lb round steak, diced
2 tbsp butter, margarine, or oil
1 onion, diced
1 can cream of mushroom soup
1 cup chopped mushrooms
dash of salt, pepper, and garlic powder
1 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce
1 cup sour cream

Brown meat and onion in oil. Add soup, mushrooms, spices, and Worcestershire sauce. Cook till tender. Add sour cream just before serving. Serve over cooked rice or noodles.

2009-01-15T12:14:00.000-10:00

Pork Barbacoa

Place 1 boneless pork roast in a crockpot
Mix together and pour over the roast:
1 McCormick Grill Mate southwest marinade packet
1 ½ cups water or Dr Pepper
½ cup vinegar
2 tbsp oil
¾-1 ½ cup brown sugar

Cook on low for 5-7 hours till done in the middle. Shred the pork with a fork, then put back in the marinade and keep the crockpot on warm until serving.

Serve inside tortillas with all the usual taco fixings & Tomatillo Dressing

Tomatillo Dressing

In a blender, combine:

2 cups mayo
1 clove garlic
½ bunch cilantro, leaves only
2 tbsp water
1-2 tbsp vinegar
1 jalapeno, no seeds
1 tomatillo, quartered
½ tsp pepper
½ tsp salt

2009-01-15T12:12:00.000-10:00

Stromboli

1 basic pizza dough recipe
1/4 cup pizza sauce

Suggested toppings:
1/2 lb. thinly sliced meats (ham, salami, turkey, pepperoni, etc.)
1/4 lb. sliced cheese (provolone, mozzarella, etc...)

1 egg white + 1 tbsp milk mix (or an egg wash)
1/4 C grated Parmesan cheese

Roll out pizza dough into a semi oval/rectangular shape. Top lightly with pizza sauce. Add whatever toppings you like. Roll the dough up into a tube. Tuck the sides in and pinch closed. Place onto a baking sheet lightly sprayed with olive oil. Cut slits into the top of the stromboli about 2 inches apart. Lightly brush with egg wash. Top with grated parmesan cheese. Bake at 375 degrees for 30 minutes. Cut into pieces and serve with some warm pizza sauce.

2009-01-15T12:09:00.000-10:00

Navajo Tacos

1 loaf frozen bread dough or homemade, thaw & let rise
Vegetable oil for frying
Chili, cooked
Tomatoes, diced
Onions, diced
Lettuce, shredded
Cheddar cheese, grated
Sour cream
Salsa
Guacamole (optional)

Break off large pieces of bread dough and roll into 6 inch circles. Drop dough into hot oil and fry until lightly browned. Top with warm chili, tomatoes, onions, lettuce, cheese, sour cream, salsa, and guacamole if desired. Add anything else you might like. It is messy, but very yummy!

2009-01-15T12:07:00.000-10:00

Easy Chicken and Biscuits

1 can cream of potato soup
½ cup milk
A dash of thyme
A dash of pepper
2 cups frozen mixed vegetables
1 cup cooked chicken, cubed
1 pkg. refrigerator biscuits

Mix the soup, milk, thyme, pepper, vegetables, and chicken in an 8 x 8 inches baking dish. Bake at 400 degrees for 15 minutes. Arrange biscuits on top and cook for 15 more minutes until the biscuits are golden brown.

Hint: Double the recipe for a 9"x13" pan.

Buttermilk Biscuits

1 cup butter
2 cups buttermilk (milk + 1 tsp lemon juice)
½ teaspoon salt
6 teas. baking powder
1 teas. baking soda
4 - 6 cups flour as needed

Mix lightly, cut out shapes, & bake for 20 minutes at 375 degrees Hint: If the dough is still sticky, add more flour when rolling it out to cut into shapes.

2009-01-15T12:04:00.001-10:00

Stuffed Mushroom

20 medium mushrooms
3 Tbsp. butter
2 Tbsp. finely chopped onions
2 Tbsp. finely chopped red peppers
14 RITZ Crackers, finely crushed (about 1/2 cup crumbs)
2 Tbsp. KRAFT 100% Grated Parmesan Cheese
1/2 tsp. Italian seasoning

Preheat oven to 400̊F. Remove stems from mushrooms. Finely chop enough of the stems to measure 1/4 cup; set aside. Cover and refrigerate remaining stems for other use. Melt butter in large skillet on medium heat. Add 1/4 cup chopped mushroom stems, the onions and peppers; cook and stir until vegetables are tender. Stir in cracker crumbs, cheese and Italian seasoning. Spoon crumb mixture evenly into mushroom caps. Place on ungreased baking sheet. Bake 15 min. or until heated through.

2009-01-15T12:02:00.000-10:00

Egg Foo Young

2 celery stocks, chopped
1 onion, diced
1 tsp ginger
1 cup mushrooms, sliced
8 oz water chestnuts, sliced
1 cup chicken, cooked & shredded
6 eggs
1 tsp sesame oil
½ tsp salt
1 tsp pepper

Saute the celery, onion, and ginger for about 5 minutes. Add mushrooms and cook for 3 minutes. Add water chestnuts and chicken and cook for 2 minutes. Put into a large bowl. Combine in eggs, sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Make into patties. Cook first side for 6 minutes, then flip. Cook second side for 4 minutes. Serve with Chinese gravy.

Chinese Gravy

1 cup chicken broth
1 tsp soy sauce.
1 tsp corn starch

Bring chicken broth and soy sauce to a boil. Add in corn starch (mixed in 1 Tbsp water) and stir until thicken. Serve warm.

2009-01-15T11:58:00.000-10:00

Pasta Salad

1 pkg. tricolor spiral pasta, cooked, drained and cooled
1 large carrot, shredded
1 cup fresh tomatoes, diced
1 cup cucumber, diced
1 can black olives
1 cup peas
1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
1/2 cup Zesty Italian Dressing

Toss all ingredients in large bowl. Cover & refrigerate at least 1 hour before serving to blend flavors.

Hint: You can add any vegetables you like. You can also add sliced pepperoni or diced, cooked chicken.

2009-01-15T11:57:00.000-10:00

Shepard's Pie

1 lb. ground beef
2 cups hot mashed potatoes
4 oz. cream cheese, cubed
1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded & divided
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups frozen mixed vegetables, thawed
1 cup beef gravy

Preheat the oven to 375ºF. Brown meat in large skillet. Meanwhile, mix potatoes, cream cheese, 1/2 cup of the shredded cheese and the garlic until well blended. Drain the meat. Return to skillet; stir in vegetables and gravy. Spoon into 9-inch square baking dish; cover with potato mixture and remaining 1/2 cup shredded cheese. Bake for 20 min. or until heated through.

A Kraft Foods recipe

2009-01-15T11:54:00.000-10:00

Split Pea Soup

1 small onion, diced
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
6 cups water
1 can (14-1/2 ounces) chicken broth
1-1/2 cups dried green split peas
1 cup cubed fully cooked ham
3 bay leaves
1-1/2 teaspoons salt
1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary, crushed
1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
1/4 teaspoon pepper

In a large saucepan, saute onion in oil until tender. Add remaining ingredients. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 1 hour or until peas are tender. Discard bay leaves before serving.

2009-01-15T11:49:00.000-10:00

Nana's Special Spaghetti Sauce

½ lb. Boneless pork ribs or chops
3 Italian sausages, without the casing
4 - 6 cloves of garlic, minced
2 tbsp olive oil
2 large cans diced tomatoes, pureed
1 bunch Italian parsley
2 tsp basil
2 tsp Italian seasoning

Cut the meat into bit size pieces. Brown the meat in the olive oil with the garlic. Add the tomato puree and herbs. Cook for 30 minutes on a simmer.

Serve over 1 lb of cooked pasta.

2009-01-15T11:42:00.000-10:00

Creamy Chicken Enchiladas

3 - 4 boneless chicken breast
1 can cream of chicken soup
10 oz. Sour cream
8 oz salsa
2 cups Colby jack cheese, grated
10 tortillas

Boil chicken til done (about 10 minutes) and cube. Mix with soup, cheese, sour cream, and salsa. Spoon onto the tortillas. Roll them up and place them in a 9"x13" baking dish. Top with remaining mixture. Cover and bake at 350 degrees for 20 minutes until bubbly.

Hint: I like to put a little extra salsa in the bottom of the pan to keep them from sticking.

2009-01-15T11:41:00.000-10:00

Angel Chicken Pasta

6 Boneless skinless chicken breasts
1/4 cup Butter
1.7 oz pkg dry Italian salad dressing mix
1/2 cup Chicken broth
1 can (10.75 oz.) Cream of mushroom soup
4 oz. Chive and Onion Cream Cheese
1 lb. Angel hair pasta

Melt butter over medium heat and stir in the pkg of dressing. Blend in broth and mushroom soup. Mix in cream cheese. Stir till smooth, but don't boil. Layer chicken in 9X13 pan. Pour sauce over and cook for 60 min. at 325 degrees (or in a crock pot for 4 hours). Serve with pasta.

2009-01-15T11:36:00.000-10:00

Hummus

1 (15oz) can garbanzo beans, drained
1 small bunch parsley
3 green onions
3 cloves garlic
2 tbsp. tahini (sesame seed paste)
2 tbsp. lemon juice
1 tsp. salt
dash of cayenne

Puree in a blender and serve with bread or veggies. Makes 3 servings. Refrigerate leftovers.

2009-01-15T11:32:00.000-10:00

Beef Stew

2 pounds boneless sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
3 tablespoons flour
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 package McCormick® Beef Stew Seasoning
3 cups water
5 cups diced vegetables (carrots, potatoes, onions, etc.)

Coat beef with flour. Heat oil in pot over medium-high heat. Add sirloin cubes and sauté until browned. Add seasoning, water, and vegetables and stir well. Bring to a boil. Cover and simmer 20 minutes, or until vegetables are tender.

Recipe created by McCormick, Inc.

2009-01-15T11:29:00.000-10:00

Baked Pasta

1 box of pasta (penne & bowties are best)
1 ½ to 2 jars of spaghetti sauce
1 c. (4 oz.) shredded Mozzarella cheese

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees. Cook pasta according to the directions for about ½ the specified time. Do not over cook. Drain and place pasta into a 9" x 13" baking dish. Cover the pasta with spaghetti sauce and sprinkle with cheese. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes until bubbly. Hint: Try adding bite size pieces of cooked Italian sausage for a more robust favor.

2009-01-15T11:24:00.000-10:00

Pizza Dough

2 cups flour + more later (mix wheat & white 1/2 & 1/2)
1 tsp salt
1 pkg rapid rise yeast
1 cup WARM water
1 tbsp sugar
2 tbsp olive oil for preparing the pans

Mix all above ingredients. Then add about 1 ½ cups more flour, mix well. Knead on a floured surface until smooth and elastic. Add more flour if needed. Cover and let rest 10 minutes. Spray pizza pans with olive oil. Shape the dough into the pans. Bake at 400 for about 7 minutes, till lightly brown. Cover with pizza sauce and your choice of cheese and toppings. Then bake again till cheese is melted.

2009-01-15T11:15:00.000-10:00

Lasagna Rolls

1 pkg lasagna noodles
1 ½ large cans spaghetti sauce
1 carton ricotta cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
2/3 cup Parmesan cheese (optional)
Italian seasoning, basil, and/or garlic powder to taste

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Pour sauce into a greased casserole dish until it just covers the bottom of the pan. Cook noodles until mostly done (3/4th of the time). Don't over cook the noodles. Drain and cool with cold water (so you don't burn your hands). Lay noodles side by side on a working surface. Mix cheeses and seasonings of your choice together. Spoon some cheese mixture onto each noodle and spread evenly over the noodle. Roll noodles up like a sleeping bag. Place the rolls in the sauced baking pan. Cover with the remaining sauce and some extra cheese. Cover the dish in foil and bake till bubbly (about 30 minutes).

Hint: You can also add spinach, ground beef or sausage, or mashed garbanzo beans for more substance.

2009-01-15T11:12:00.000-10:00

Chicken & Wild Rice

1 box of Long Grain & Wild Rice
1 or 2 chicken breasts

Cook the wild rice according to the directions. While the rice is cooking cut up the chicken into bite size pieces. Saute them over medium heat until done. Add the cooked chicken to the rice and serve. Hint: You can also add in cooked vegetables if desired like broccoli.

2009-01-15T11:01:00.000-10:00

Shrimp Etouffee

2 cans Golden Mushroom soup (not cream of mushroom soup)
1 can Rotel
1 can Cream of Celery soup
2 cans water

Heat till well blended. Then add

3 lb shrimp ( if using frozen cooked shrimp, thaw, add in the during the last two minutes or your shrimp will be rubbery.)

Cook for about 20 minutes.

Serve over cooked rice or angel hair pasta.

2009-01-15T10:57:00.000-10:00

Gumbo

1/4 cup oil or butter
½ cup flour
2 cups onion, diced
1 ½ cups bell pepper, diced
1 cup celery, diced
2 cloves of garlic, minced
6 cups of chicken (or fish) broth
1 lb smoked sausage, diced
1 lb chicken, diced
½ tsp cayenne
½ tsp thyme
1/4 tsp oregano
2 bay leaves
salt & pepper to taste
some file for garnish
2 to 4 cups cooked rice

In a large heavy pot, stir together the oil and flour. Cook the roux (oil & flour) over low heat, stirring constantly, for 20 to 30 minutes until it has properly browned. Stir in the onion, bell pepper, and celery. Cook for 3 minutes. Add all the spices including the garlic and cook for 2 minutes. Add the stock. Stir until incorporated. When the gumbo is simmering, add the meat and cook for 15 minutes. Any seafood only needs to cook for 5 minutes. Serve with rice.

2009-01-09T12:22:00.000-10:00

Oven - Fried Chicken

½ cup buttermilk (milk + 1 tsp lemon juice or vinegar)
1 tbsp mustard
1 tsp garlic
1 tsp Tabasco

2 - 3 lbs chicken breasts

½ cup flour
2 tbsp sesame seeds (optional)
1 ½ tsp paprika
1 tsp baking powder
Salt & pepper to taste

Mix the buttermilk, mustard, garlic, and Tabasco in a dish. Add the chicken and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 8 hours. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the marinade. Mix the remaining ingredients (except the chicken) in a large ziplock bag to make your breading. Shake the chicken in the breading to coat. Shake off excess breading and place the chicken on a baking sheet lined with foil. Spray the chicken with olive oil cooking spray, so it will crisp when baking. Bake uncovered at 425 degrees for 45 minutes.

2009-01-09T12:21:00.001-10:00

Homestyle Turkey Meatloaf

1 ½ lbs ground turkey
1 onion, chopped
4 egg whites
1 cup salsa
3/4 cup old-fashioned oats, uncooked
1 pkt Knorr* Vegetable Soup mix
Salt & pepper to taste
½ cup ketchup

Mix all the ingredients together except the ketchup. Press into a prepared 9"x5' loaf pan. Spread the ketchup over the top. Bake at 350 degrees for 60 minutes. Let stand 5 minutes before serving.

2009-01-09T12:16:00.000-10:00

Jambalaya

1 pkg smoked sausage, diced
1 onions, diced
2 cloves garlic minced
1 bell pepper, diced
1 can of diced tomatoes with the juice
3 bay leaves
1 tsp oregano
1 tsp basil
Tony Chachere's to taste
4 cups cooked rice

In a large frying pan cook the meat. Then add the onions, garlic, and bell pepper. Most recipes call for 1 stick of butter, but I use cooking spray to cut the fat. Cook until onions are clear. Add the tomatoes and seasonings. Cook for 20 minutes, and serve over cooked rice. If you are making ahead of time, mix the Jambalaya and the rice together, so the rice does not dry out. Taste great mixed or served separate. Best made the day before, so the flavor can set and deepen.

Hint: You can also add in just about any kind of meat, seafood, or vegetable.

2009-01-09T12:12:00.000-10:00

Quick Red Beans and Rice

1 lb smoked sausage or ham, diced (optional)
1 onion, diced
1 can red kidney beans with the juice
Tony Chachere's to taste
4 cups cooked rice

Cook the ham or sausage and onion until browned. Add beans and Tony's. Cook until bubbly about 5 minutes. Mix in the rice and serve warm. The meat is completely optional. It is the beans with the juice that flavor the dish.

2009-01-09T12:08:00.000-10:00

Chicken Parmigiana

4 boneless skinless chicken breast halves
1 eggs, beaten
1/4 cup milk
1 clove of garlic, minced
1 c. Italian bread crumbs (bread crumbs + Italian seasoning)

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Cut chicken breast in half (they cook better that way). Combine egg, milk, and garlic in a bowl. Dip chicken into egg & milk mixture and then cover with bread crumbs, coating thoroughly. (I like to put the bread crumbs in a gallon size ziplock and shake the chicken in it for quick and easy coating.) Shake off extra lightly and place onto a foiled and greased baking sheet. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. You can prepare these up to 12 hours ahead of time and store in the fridge before baking if needed. Serve with some marinara sauce and pasta. Top with mozzarella cheese if desired.

2009-01-09T12:06:00.000-10:00

Taco Soup

1 lb hamburger or ground turkey
1 onion, diced
1 pkg. taco seasoning
1 can kidney beans, with juice
1 can corn, with juice (or 1 cup of frozen)
1 can diced tomatoes, with juice (or 1 -2 cups of fresh diced)
1 can of tomato sauce (size depends of how thick you like the soup)

Brown meat and onion. Add in the remaining ingredients and simmer for 20 minutes. Serve with sour cream, cheese and chips if desired.

Hint: This makes a great meal to give to someone or take to a potluck.

2009-01-09T05:34:00.000-10:00

Mosiah 5:15:

“Be steadfast and immovable, always abounding in good works, that Christ, the Lord God Omnipotent, may seal you his, that you may be brought to heaven, that ye may have everlasting salvation and eternal life.”

2009-01-09T04:43:00.001-10:00

Tiger Butter Candy (really yummy and easy)

1 pound white candy coating, coarsely chopped

2 cups (12 ounces) semisweet chocolate chips

1-1/2 cups Creamy Peanut Butter

In a large microwave-safe bowl, melt candy coating; stir until smooth. Repeat with chocolate chips. Stir peanut butter into candy coating. Thinly spread onto a waxed paper-lined baking sheet. Drizzle with chocolate chips. Cut through mixture with a knife to swirl the chocolate. Chill until firm. Break into pieces. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Yield: about 2-1/2 pounds.

From Taste of Home Christmas Cookies & Candies cookbook.

More of Eero's Favorite Jokes

2009-01-09T04:35:00.000-10:00

Why did the waffle cross the road? Cause it wanted to be a pancake.

What do you call people who are afraid of Santa Claus? Claustrophobic

What's white and goes up? A confused snowflake!

What do you call an old snowman? Water

What is the best Christmas present in the world? A broken drum – you can't beat it!

Why was Prancer always wet? Because he is a riendeer!

2009-01-09T04:32:00.000-10:00

Cheese Ball

1 pkg cream cheese
3 green onions, sliced
4 oz chopped ham, diced small
1/2 cup cheddar cheese, shredded

Beat the cream cheese until it softens ( a minute or two). Mix in the green onions and chopped ham until they are evenly distributed. Form into a ball or log and roll in the cheddar cheese until covered. Place in a ziplock bag or cover in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving. Best made the day before.

2009-01-09T04:27:00.000-10:00

Ham Balls

2 cups very stiff mashed potatoes
2 cups finely chopped cooked ham
1 cup (4 ounces) shredded Swiss cheese
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup finely chopped onion
1 egg, well beaten
1 teaspoon prepared mustard
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
3-1/2 cups cornflakes, crushed

Combine all ingredients except cornflakes; chill. Shape into 1-in. balls and roll in cornflakes. Place on greased baking sheet and bake at 350° for 25-30 minutes. Serve while hot. Yield: about 8 dozen.

2009-01-09T04:23:00.000-10:00

Chicken Salad

4 cups cooked chicken shredded
1 cup finely minced celery
1/2 cup finely minced yellow onion
1/3 cup pickle relish (or to taste)
1/2 cup chopped cashews (or to taste)
1 cup grape halves (seedless)
1 cup mayonnaise
1 tsp salt & pepper (or to taste)

Mix and serve cold. Make ahead of time for better flavor.

2008-12-12T15:08:00.000-10:00

Fast Cut-out Cookies

1 cup butter
1 cup sugar
1 large egg
2 tsp baking powder
1 tsp vanilla
2 & 3/4 cups flower

Cream butter and sugar in mixer. Beat in eggs and vanilla. Add baking powder and flour (one cup at a time). Mix after every cup. Roll to ½ inch thick. Dip cutters in flour or powdered sugar and cut out shapes. Bake at 400 for 6-7 minutes.

To make chocolate add 3 oz. melted unsweetened chocolate.

Butter Cream Frosting

½ cup butter
1 tsp vanilla extract
4 cups confectioners' sugar
1 to 3 tbsp milk
Food coloring (optional)

In a large bowl, beat together butter, vanilla, and sugar. Add milk until smooth. If necessary add more milk or powdered sugar until frosting is spreading consistency. If desired, add a few drops of food coloring. Mix everything well.

Chocolate frosting- add ½ cup Hershey's cocoa

2008-12-12T15:02:00.000-10:00

"Fair is a weather forecast. It has got nothing to do with life."
- Maude Herman

The Mom Song

2008-12-10T18:22:00.001-10:00

Santa's Spy

2008-12-06T13:49:00.001-10:00

My friend Bradley told me about a tradition that her family does. She has a plush elf doll that she hides somewhere in the house. It watches over the kids being naughty and nice during the month of December. Every night the spy reports back to Santa and hides somewhere new. Every morning it is a race to find where Santa's spy has hidden that day. I think that sounds like great fun!

Family Fun Week (Valentine's Day)

2008-12-06T13:43:00.000-10:00

A few years ago, the kids decided that they wanted to celebrate Valentine's Day as a family. They were tired of being left out of all the dating fun. We came up with the idea to have a week full of family dates. We have tired going to the movies, having a painting party, family game night, going bowling, making Valentine cards, decorating cut-out cookies, camp out in the family room, karaoke night, making chocolates, playing at the park, a family disco night, etc... The kids have loved spending the time as a family and coming up with new ideas for family dates. Now they don't complain when my husband and I go out without them. If you have any fun ideas to add to our Family Fun Week collection, please email them to us.

Groundhog's Day Fun

2008-12-06T13:33:00.000-10:00

February 2nd is always Groundhog's day. A couple years ago the kids decided that we should add this day to our regular celebrations. We make a poster of every one's predictions, Shadow or No Shadow. (If the groundhog sees a shadow, he regards it as an omen of six more weeks of bad weather and returns to his hole. If the day is cloudy and, hence, shadow-less, he takes it as a sign of spring and stays above ground.) The kids decorate cupcakes with chocolate frosting, crushed Oreo cookies, and little chocolate animals (check out the Valentine candy). We have "groundhog" meatloaf, mashed potato mounds, and carrots. We have also done "groundhog" burgers. My husband and I love to watch the movie Groundhog's Day. For more about Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania and the history of Groundhog's Day go to: http://www.groundhog.org/

The Green Rabbit

2008-12-06T04:42:00.000-10:00

My dad's family use to have this tradition that revolved around a puke green UGLY rabbit cookie jar. I don't know how this got started or how it ended a couple of years ago, but it was part of our family for over 20 years. The green rabbit would suddenly appear at weddings, birthdays, front porches, family reunions, etc... There would always be a poem attached explaining where the rabbit had been and why he came for a visit. It was one of my favorite family jokes. For my family it was a great way to stay connected to our extended family who lived far away.

Secret Santa

2008-12-06T03:48:00.000-10:00

My kids have been Secret Santa-ed every night for the past week. A small gift bag was left on our front door handle with a note and small gift for each child. My kids have absolutely loved this. The gifts have included things like: two Pokemon or Webkins cards, a hot chocolate packet, stickers, party favor games, play jewelry, etc... I am amazed by the thoughtfulness of whomever is doing this. While the gifts/notes may not have cost much in the way of time or money, they are priceless to my children. Just goes to show you that the love put into the present is the true gift.

Hint: If you are not going to identify who you are, you may want to stick to prepackaged treats instead of homemade. Sad but true that you have to be careful of things like that nowadays.

Is your tooth fairy forgetful too?

2008-11-04T12:17:00.000-10:00

My poor kids have the most forgetful tooth fairy. She will not come for multiple nights in a row. My kids have taken to making maps and signs to attract her attention. I do have to say in her defense that she leaves extra money for every night that she misses. Recently the kids noticed this trend are a very excited about every extra night's tip that they get.

Q-tip Skeleton

2008-11-04T11:52:00.000-10:00

My 3rd grader made this at school last week. All you need is: 1 black piece of construction paper, Q-tips, bottle of any craft glue, scissors, and a small piece of white paper for the face.

1. Make your face and glue it down to the black paper.
2. Cut your Q-tips to the right size for the various parts of the body.
3. Glue the Q-tips down to form the body of your skeleton.
4. Allow it all to dry for a couple of hours.

You can use this project to help learn the names of the bones.

Election Day Fun

2008-11-04T11:18:00.000-10:00

My kids love the idea of having a voice in how our country is run, so we really celebrate election days. As parents we make sure to educate ourselves on the current issues and candidates so we can vote responsibly. Then we take the kids to the Kids Vote area, so they can vote too. The kids decorate the house with red, white, and blue (recycle your 4th of July ideas.) I print off some electoral college maps for the kids to color as the votes come in. We serve red, white, and blue food. Then we enjoy discussing kid-friendly politics and how cool it is to be able to vote. This is a great way for the kids to learn about how our government runs and learn to be patriotic. This is also a great way for your kids to memorize the presidents, states, and even the capitals of each state.

A friend told me recently that in Canada they call the opposing political party the "loyal opposition". I really like that term, because it shows that while you may not always agree, you can still be friends, family, good patriotic citizens etc. I think that is a great lesson to teach our children.

Fun Ideas for Family Separations

2008-10-03T10:23:00.000-10:00

Family separations are hard, no matter if it is just a quick business trip or a military deployment. Here are some fun ideas to help kids cope with family separations. I use the same ideas in regards to extended family members that do not live close by.

Map out your trip to show where you are going or mark the map as the trip progresses. This is a great way for your kids to study geography.

Use time tools like paper chains, calendars, advent calendars, etc. to mark time during a separation. It helps kids cope with not fully being able to understand long time periods.

Treasure hunts can be very fun. Write letters or notes, possibly including a surprise with each, and hide them in your house. Each letter can have a clue on where to find the next day's letter, and state how many days are left till you return. This will give your child something fun to look forward to, and works great for a short absence where there won't be time for mail.

Love notes are always a good idea. One summer my kids and I were going to be out of town when my husband returned from an extended absence. We left messages on sticky notes all over the house for him to read when he came back. My kids love doing projects like this while their dad is gone. It makes separation lots more fun.

Bedtime is always the hardest time for my kids when one of us is away. Recording bedtime stories, loving messages, songs, etc. on a DVD, CD, or tape has really help. This is especially good for infants and toddlers who can easily develop attachment issues.

Have phone dates. Set-up frequent phone calls to be a regular part of each other’s lives. This allows children to get reassurance from the parent that is gone, that he/she will be coming back.

Keep a journal of your time apart. That way you don’t miss out on each other’s lives. Daily emails work too. I love looking back on these and laughing at the chaos.

Start a family blog. That way everyone in your family has access to all your news at the same time. Please remember to use a program that is password protected to ensure privacy for your children.

Have a family “scapegoat”. Pick an adult in your family with a good relationship to your children who is willing to support your style of parenting. That way when one of your kids gets upset and will not talk to you, they have someone to call. Your child can vent to the other adult and calm down. Then the family “scapegoat” will listen, provide reassurance, and reinforce the family rules and disciplines.

Create your own story book of favorite memories. Have your kids pick out their favorite pictures of the people that love them and write out fun memories about each one. You can buy an inexpensive photo album to store them in. These are some of my kids’ greatest treasures. They make great gifts for Grandma & Grandpa too.

My kids really love getting post cards from friends and family all over the world. My son collects them in a photo album.

Give your kids their own copies of family pictures. You can put them in an album or a picture wall in their room. This allows them to put names with faces of family members that do not live close by.

When you can finally be together again, have a family day. Do something fun as a family. Spend time together. Allow your kids to be as clingy as they need to be to feel secure. Let your kids tell you all about what happened to them while you were gone. Usually this helps the transition for everyone concerned.

Are You Prepared?

2008-09-21T14:22:00.000-10:00

I always thought we were doing really well on preparedness until we met Hurricane Ike. Yes even in our secret underwater base somewhere in the good old U.S.A., we got caught in up the the hurricane's path. My family did beautifully living without power for a week. Fortunately our tap water was still on and clean. It really got me thinking about how to improve our preparedness to the next thing to come along. We had enough food for the week, but not enough batteries. I also had to run the store again for a clothes line half way through the week. My kids had a great time learning to wash clothes in the tub and dry them on the line. We were so blessed to be able to campout at home for a week. My prayers and thoughts go out to all the families who lost their homes and loved ones. May your lives be filled with peace and healing.

Personal Medical History

2008-09-21T13:59:00.000-10:00

Keeping your own medical history will help you to remember important facts, save time when seeing new doctors, see patterns, avoid problems if your records are lost, and avoid some medical mistakes. Update your history after every major medical event or at least once a year. I also like to write a list of my concerns at the bottom, so I don’t forget to mention them to my doctor. Don’t forget to take your medical history with you when you travel. If you do not have any major medical conditions, you might be able to fit it all in a couple of pages. If you do have a more complex medical history, a three ringed binder works great to keep it all organized. You might want to include the following:

Personal information
Patient’s full name
Address
Phone numbers
Insurance company with id #
Birth date
For a child include the names of parents, birth place, birth weight, & birth height.

List of all current doctors with phone numbers

Blood type if known

Allergies: List all known allergies and sensitivities as well as your reactions to them.

Immunizations: Are they up-to-date? When do you need the next one?

Medical Conditions: List all know medical conditions and the date first diagnosed.

Current Medications: List all medication with dosages, refills, and prescription expiration dates. Don’t forget to include vitamins and supplements.

Brief Medical History:
List dates, places, doctor’s names, and descriptions of all major medical events such as ER visits, hospitalizations, and specialty doctor visits (cardiologist, oncologist, etc…) Also include any normal doctor’s visits in which prescriptions are given or changed. Be sure to list all major medical discoveries and abnormal test results. I also like to jot down the date of my last physical, so I can remember when to schedule another one.

Other considerations:
Keep copies of all hospitalization & ER visit discharge papers and test results records for your personal records. Most doctor’s offices and hospitals will not release your medical files to you. By law they have to provide you will copies of any/all medical records when asked. It might take up-to six weeks to make copies, so ask early.

Emergency Car Supplies

2008-09-21T13:39:00.000-10:00

Be prepared for most small emergencies by keeping a bag of supplies in your car. Don’t forget to check the expiration dates routinely and replace anything that you use. This bag has saved me many times whether it is an unexpected emergency room visit or child that has wet their pants. Things to include might be:

Change of clothes for everyone in the family including socks and underwear

Small personal hygiene kit – I like to include toothbrushes, toothpaste, hand sanitizer, hair clippy, comb, and pads/tampons

Emergency medications for chronic conditions such as asthmas or diabetes with instructions on use

Snacks – individually packaged items like granola bars and bottled water

Baby items (if applicable) – extra formula, pacifiers, diapers, wipes, sippy cups, etc…

Emergency contact list

Comfort items like a small blanket or toy

Money for emergencies ($20 - $200)

Simple first aid kit for cuts, scrapes, and other ouchies

A pair of walking shoes if you routinely wear dress shoes

A whistle to attract attention

An emergency blanket

An umbrella

A flashlight with extra batteries

A disposable camera

A map of your area – be sure to outline your evacuation routes

Jumper cables or an emergency car starter

Tire iron – make sure you know how to change a tire or have road side assistance

A copy of your family’s emergency plan

Two Weeks of Emergency Supplies

2008-09-21T12:53:00.000-10:00

Every family should have at least two weeks of emergency supplies. These supplies will help you survive without water, power, or having to leave your home in case of a disaster. They can also help during those times of unexpected financial trouble. You should personalize your emergency supplies to fill the needs of your family. Don’t forget your pet’s needs too. Be careful to routinely check the expiration dates on your supplies. Try to keep your supplies in a central, easy to reach location within your home. Rotate your supplies periodically and replace what you use as soon as you can. Most of these items you will already have in your home.

Water – 1 gallon per person per day or 14 gallons for 2 weeks per person. You may want to store more than that to bath with, wash clothes, cook, etc…

Food – enough food for at least 2 weeks. Be sure that this food does not have to be refrigerated or cooked. If you want to include food that has to be cook, make to include a way to cook your food like a grill or camp stove. Don’t forget the snacks and little treats.

Medications and medical supplies – keep an extra two weeks’ worth or more on hand.

Money – if you can keep cash on hand ($50 - $200) in case of power outages or emergency trips. For example a lot of hospital cafeterias take cash only.

First Aid Kit – it is usually a good idea to include a basic first aid manual in your kit as a reminder.

Sanitation needs – how will you deal with a loss of water/sewer in a disaster? Don’t forget to keep 2 weeks extra personal hygiene supplies on hand at all times.

Entertainment – include games, coloring books & crayons, books, etc… to pass the time.

Tools – this is where most people have to spend a little money. It is very helpful to have on hand any or all of the following:
Flashlights or camp lanterns with extra batteries
Battery powered radio with extra batteries
Map of the area & your evacuation routes
Whistle to signal for help.
Fire extinguisher(s)
Shut-off wrench for your utilities
Crowbar – to move heavy objects or open stuck doors
Corded phone - the cordless ones don’t work without power
Non electric can opener
Dust masks
Tent(s)
Tarps
Duck tape
Rope
Chain saw (if you have large trees in your yard)

Family Household Book (box, safe, etc…)

2008-09-21T11:46:00.000-10:00

Keep all of your important documents together for easy access in case of an emergency. Store them in something you can take with you if you have to evacuate. This is also handy for moves, vacations, filling out legal paperwork, etc… Your important documents might include some of the following:

Contact Information
Emergency phone #s & addresses
Family phone #s & addresses
Friends phone #s & addresses
Business phone #s & addresses
Medical, School, Church, etc… phone #s & addresses

Financial Information
Family budget
List of all accounts and bills
Last paycheck statement or LES
Insurance Policies

Medical Information
List of all current medications with dosages and refill #s
Brief medical histories for all family members
Medical instructions for chronic conditions.
Shot records

Household Inventory
List of all household items valued over $200.
List of all appliances and electronics with serial #s
Titles to cars, boats, RVs, etc…

Legal Documents
Birth certificates
Social Security cards
Passports/Immigration papers
Marriage/Divorce papers
Custody agreements
Wills and Living wills
Deed to properties

Misc. Information
Family Emergency Plan
Family daily/weekly schedules
CD backups of important computer files
CD backups of family photos
List of favorite websites with use ids and passwords (hand-write all passwords)

Family Emergency Plan

2008-09-21T11:44:00.000-10:00

What will your family do in an emergency? As a family, come up with a plan of how to handle the common emergencies in your area. Make sure that everyone has a copy, and copies are easy to find in your home, work, and car. Don’t forget to include your pets in your family plan. Please personalize your family plan to fit your family’s needs and concerns. You might want to include some or all of the following suggestions:

Communication: How will your family stay in contact with everyone?
1. Have a list of all important and emergency phone numbers by every phone, in every car, and given to all responsible family members.
2. Choose an out-of-town contact that you will call or email in a disaster. This person will be able to let others know how and where you are. You might need one contact person for each side of the family.
3. Teach children how and when to call 911. Don’t forget to include learning how to use a cell phone if needed.

Shelter: Where will you go in an emergency?
1. Have a safe room (no window or outside walls if possible) in your home. It is best to store your 72 hour kids in this room as well so you can get to it when you need it.
2. Make a fire escape plan for each room in your home. Don’t forget to test your smoke alarms too.
3. Have a meeting place outside of your home in case your home is not safe.
4. Have a rendezvous point in town and out-of-town if you have to evacuate.

Emergency Aid: How will you get the help you need in an emergency?
1. Develop s support system that is at least 5 people deep. Who can help you in an emergency?
2. What emergency supplies do you need, where are they kept, and where can you get more if needed?
3. Discuss what to do in a fire, severe weather, flood, power outage, medical emergency, etc…
4. What will you do if you are out of work for a while?

Estate Planning: What will your family do if you are disabled or die?
1. Do you have the right amount of insurance (auto, property, life) and is it up-to-date?
2. Do you have a will? Who do you want to take care of your kids, pets, business, etc? Make sure to give a copy of your wishes in writing to all sides of your family, so there are no misunderstandings.
3. Do you have an advanced medical directive or living will expressing your wishes on medical treatments and who gets to decide for you if you can’t decide for yourself?

Away from Home: What if you are not at home when an emergency happens?
1. Who do you call for emergency information?
2. How do you reach your spouse at work or the kids at school/daycare in an emergency?
3. Do you know your work’s and/or school’s emergency plan?
4. Know how your health care works away from home and in an emergency.

Emergency Contact List

2008-09-21T11:04:00.000-10:00

This is a detailed list of who to contact in case of an emergency. You can personalize your list to includes anything or anyone that is important to your family. Most of this information can be found in your local phone book or city’s website. It can be very helpful to keep a copy of this by every phone, in your cars, at work, and in your purse. I also like to leave a copy with the babysitter just in case.

The front page contains:

Full names of you and your spouse
Address with zip code
Phone numbers

Emergency 911
Police (non emergency # - in case of an emergency always call 911)
Fire Department (non emergency # - in case of an emergency always call 911)
Poison Control

Utilities
Electric (emergency # - usually different from customer service)
Gas (emergency # - usually different from customer service)
Phone (emergency # - usually different from customer service)
Water (emergency # - usually different from customer service)

Medical
Family Doctor(s)
Family Dentist(s)
All Specialty Doctors
Nearest Hospital/ER

Work – list all places of work for everyone in the family.

Family - be sure to include at least one contact from every side of the family.
Husband’s next of kin
Wife’s next of kin

Other ideas
Church
Neighbors
Babysitters

On the back, I like to list the addresses of businesses that are important to my family such as:

Places of work
Schools/Daycares
Church
Doctor’s offices
Urgent care center/ER
Closest Hospital
Insurance companies
Banks/Credit Unions

*Be careful not to list any account information or policy details on any thing that you share with others or save on your hard drive.

2008-08-28T11:21:00.000-10:00

The Drug Problem in America

The other day, someone at a store in our town read that a methamphetamine lab had been found in an old farmhouse in the adjoining county and he asked me a rhetorical question, ''Why didn't we have a drug problem when you and I were growing up?''

I replied: I had a drug problem when I was young:

I was drug to church on Sunday morning.

I was drug to church for weddings and funerals.

I was drug to family reunions and community socials no matter the weather.

I was drug by my ears when I was disrespectful to adults.

I was also drug to the woodshed when I disobeyed my parents, told a lie, brought home a bad report card, did not speak with respect, spoke ill of the teacher or the preacher, or if I didn't put forth my best effort in everything that was asked of me.

I was drug to the kitchen sink to have my mouth washed out with soap if I uttered a profane four-letter word.

I was drug out to pull weeds in mom's garden and flower beds and cockleburs out of dad's fields.

I was drug to the homes of family, friends, and neighbors to help out some poor soul who had no one to mow the yard, repair the clothesline, or chop some firewood;and, if my mother had ever known that I took a single dime as a tip for this kindness, she would have drug me back to the woodshed.

Those drugs are still in my veins; and they affect my behavior in everything I do, say, and think. They are stronger than cocaine, crack, or heroin; and, if today's children had this kind of drug problem, America would be a better place.

~author unknown~