Violin Lessons Contest - no experience necessary!

I have to tell my violin story. Here it is.

I have been teaching violin lessons for several years. Those of you who know me may ask... "How is it possible that I who do not play the violin am able to teach violin lessons?" I admit, it is a very viable question, however, I will not take the time to discuss the very intricate and detailed answer within this blog at this time. You may use your imagination.

Actually, I think I will sponsor a contest - to see who can come up with the best explanation for this conundrum, and the winner will win a prize to come stay at my house with me for free! The free part is the staying with me part of course -and is all inclusive as food and beverages will also be provided.
The contest rules are as follows:
1. All entries will be judged based on their merits of credibility and creativity - not necessarily in that order
2. All entries must be submitted as comments to this blog.
3. The entry cut-off date is May 22, 2008 at 5:00 pm.

Okay, back to my story now.

The funny part of the story might be the part about me (a non violin player) teaching lessons (yes I charge) using a very small violin (but it isn't), but yes, - not only do I not play the violin, but I don't even have one that is not a child's size - I have been using a violin which is 1/10th of a normal violin size. Yes, quite amusing , "Here Johnny, let me show you how that's done (on my mini violin)..." However, it gets even better.

On a whim, I decided that just maybe, I should look into getting a violin for myself. I know, I could consider it a business investment! I looked at the music store, but wasn't really impressed. I then considered Costco, but then, I just wasn't sure.

In the end I went where every savvy consumer goes - ebay.
Now, I had heard stories of ridiculously cheap violins. I have also seen some of them. Yes, they were a dollar, but their ribs were cracked etc, therefore the sound was awful, and they weren't really great. However, as I was glancing through, I found a violin - a full size, for $3.47. I couldn't believe my luck, and thought I might just take the gamble. The description also said "have case." The seller was from China. Hmmm I said to myself, the price is right - just maybe. So I bid on the violin and didn't get it for $3.48. However, the next day I received an e-mail for a second chance at $3.49. I checked out the shipping. The monetary value was C115 (or somewhere thereabouts.) So, I double checked to see where it would be shipped from. The address was someplace in China. I found a currency converter and found that the shipping was only $15 US. Wow- I figured that $18 for a violin would be a steal.

I made the bid.
Later, I found that I had won the bid. I was thrilled. However, I wasn't sure what the final total (in US) would be, so I sent the seller an e-mail. The response was,
"Dear Good Friend, You send the money now, OK?" and something else in Chinese.
Shall we say slight miscommunication? Finally, I found total invoice and couldn't believe that the 'C' in front of the shipping amount was actually Canadian (right - why wouldn't I have assumed this?)

So - I ended up buying my little violin for a little more than $18 US. However, (here's the fun part) I also bought a necklace for $0.60 from the same buyer, and sort of ran into the same problem, however it was considerably less expensive for the shipping and the shipping costs were from China.

Finally, after waiting for several weeks, I went to the PO, and found a package waiting for me. It looked a little bit like a small coffin.
I was on my way to a friend's house, so I took it with me. There, I opened it up, and inside was my violin.
Initially, I was disappointed that I only received the one package, and assumed the necklace would come in a couple of days or so. However, I found the necklace within the violin case!

In addition to the necklace (which was mis-beaded), I got some bonus costume jewelry. They threw in two bracelets and a really great adjustable ring (well, it would be great if I were a rapper, which I'm not.)
I thought it was the funniest thing ever - the extra jewelry and all. Also, I'm pretty sure the opals on the necklace are not really opal -they look like painted glass - I'm sure they were painted with lead.

Well - there is no moral of the story - you may wish to weave it into your contest entry, but in the meantime a word to the wise. "Beware of non-english speaking (and writing)violin selling Chinese Canadians!"

Hallelujah!!

So - for the past two weeks, I have been biting my nails (figuratively speaking, as I never really ever had any to begin with.)

I wonder if I'm beginning to sound like a broken record. Anyways, here's the saga if you are at all interested.

Last spring, I walked in my graduation as I thought I only had two more classes to take to finish up my degree. I had signed up for one as an independent study course at BYU, and then signed up for the other one to take over the summer. Since I could finish the independent study course anytime within a year, I really tackled the other course. That done, just as I thought that I could really jump in and finish my independent study course, my professor went to clear me for graduation, and informed me that I still needed ONE more upper division class for my major. I frantically found a BYU independent study course that was upper division enough to work, and fiendishly began to slog my way through. Once I finished that class, I began to work on that old outstanding independent study class. However, as I was teaching seminary, it really became difficult as I would fall asleep over my scriptures each night preparing for seminary, and in getting up at 4:30, I never really found the time to nail down that last class. As you may know, I finished with seminary during the end of March, and finished the class mid-April.

There's the history portion.

So, I contacted my major and minor departments, and they cleared me for graduation. My advisor said that it looked like everything had been met and I was good to go... I did an online graduation evaluation, and it kept stating that I was not meeting the upper division hours requirement for graduation...by 2.375 hours. I just about fainted. I mean, I don't think it would be possible to drag this out any further - someone within my immediate family would die.

I e-mailed my professor as the graduation office was stating that I needed 6 hours, he was stating that I needed less than 3, I talked to an adviser who got a different calculation. It was just everywhere and no one could reach a consensus on anything. Finally, my professor/counselor mentioned that a petition for a waiver process existed. I jumped all over it, and wrote a three page letter (yes, I begged) explaining my situation, and that if I did finish the requirement, it would have to be upper division in some random field of study, since I'd already finished everything for my major and minor, and boy oh boy, what a pain it would be for my family, so please just let's waive it and be done with it. Okay, I really didn't beg, but because I'd transferred credits from two different schools etc, I think it made everything a little bit confusing etc.

Two weeks ago, I called to check on the status, and after being told that the person was out of town, I waited until she came back and finally got hold of her. She said she'd call me on Friday and have someone look over everything so I would know whether or not I needed to sign up for another class, since they started on Monday. On Monday when I called her, I was "strongly advised" to sign up for another online class. I was completely crestfallen, depressed, heartbroken, disheartened (I can't think of any more adjectives, or I would use them here.) I looked at the online summer classes, and couldn't figure out how I could possibly make it work with my husband's school and work load this summer.

I called back today however, and she told me that my request had been approved!!! I think the neighbors could hear me screaming I was so thrilled, elated, overjoyed, and ecstatic.
So - that is the latest, however, now I have to wait for another week (for that person to process all 50 petitions,) and THEN I'll know if there is anything else I have to do. Talk about jumping through hoops - it shouldn't be so tough!
Anyways - I am grateful, and fairly hopeful that I really am done - it does remain to be seen until I actually have that diploma in my hand. At that time, I will invite all of my friends who have helped me through this ordeal (watching my kids while I took exams, my proctors, etc etc) and we will PARTY!!!!
Phew...
So once again, and for the record, I really think I'm finished!

Follow your nose

My husabnd had just walked in the door from running.

Daughter: Dad, I knowed you were back.
Father: Oh, how could you tell?
Daughter: I followed the smell with my nose
Father: Oh, could you smell me?
Daughter: Dad, YOU'RE STINKY!! You need a shower!

Apparently, she has some great olfactory sensors to sense his presence. Kind of funny anyways.

I have to say - this kid really cracks me up. On another note, she went mother's day shopping on Saturday. She was so excited about what she got me, and she knew that it was something that I REALLY wanted and needed. My husband said that she almost couldn't contain herself at the store she was so excited. She wrapped it and was sure I could never guess what it could be.

I am happy to say that I am now the proud owner of a new "Dora the Explorer" beach ball. That girl must be psychic! How did she know that that's what I've always wanted and needed? What a sweet gift!

Computer outage

Well, I haven't posted for a while. We lost our computer - figuratively speaking. I am using a laptop which my husband had to borrow from work since he's on call. We had a date tonight and went to Costco (he doesn't believe shopping is a date.) However, we looked at computers, and decided to not get one there, but rather order one to our specs of what we want rather than pay for useless bells and whistles. So - that said, I think we will be ordering one tomorrow. So - keep checking back. If I'm not blogging, it's because I don't have as much access to a computer...however, this one is finally working much better tonight than it previously has - it is actually letting me post!
By the way, our date wasn't totally lame. We went and got some wings, and watched the Jazz and Lakers game there at the restaraunt. It was actually pretty fun to watch - and GO JAZZ! They won this game...

Spices and Intelligence Quizes

Did I ever tell you that I'm a borderline genius? It is true. I took an internet test once - I was within just a couple of points of being a real full fledged genius, but I'm okay with the borderline part, because it would be really intimidating to everyone else if I was a real genius...anyways, I found these fun little quizzes on a friend's blog, unfortunately, they aren't about being a genius - just what spice you would be and something having to do with your intelligence. I have to be honest - I took some of the quizzes a couple of times, answering differently - I could also be cayenne or cilantro, and I could also be a musical, or interpersonal intelligence - it all just depends on how you really want to answer - but I liked these outcomes and descriptors the best:

You Are Cumin

You are warm, unique, and pretty dominant. It's also pretty likely that you smoke or like fire. You are energetic and intense. You definitely stimulate people.

What Spice Are You?

Your Dominant Intelligence is Linguistic Intelligence

You are excellent with words and language. You explain yourself well. An elegant speaker, you can converse well with anyone on the fly. You are also good at remembering information and convincing someone of your point of view. A master of creative phrasing and unique words, you enjoy expanding your vocabulary. You would make a fantastic poet, journalist, writer, teacher, lawyer, politician, or translator.

What Kind of Intelligence Do You Have?

Hairbows and Pumpkins

Today, as I looked out the window, I finally figured out why the neighbors may think we are a little bit odd.
My child (yes mine) was wearing such an interesting outfit. Gymnastics leotard, covered with baggy shorts, covered with the pumpkin costume, and a yellow bike helmet. She was riding her bike (and getting piggy back rides) up and down the sidewalk in this get up. I thought it was a classic! And yes, she dresses herself!


Yesterday, we played with some friends...the kids decided they would try out some face paint - here are the results.


Finally, I copied something off of someone's blog. Except, their picture did not come out sideways. However, it is too late, and I'm going to bed after 15 tries to straighten this baby out. Regardless of my sideways photo, this was the most inspirational idea I've seen on a blog in a very long time. I have two girls. We are CONSTANTLY struggling to keep track of their hair bows, barrettes etc. For several years, I've had two drawers that were an absolute MESS (yes I should have taken the before picture, but once again forgot - or maybe I would have been too embarrassed to post it anyways.) Well, thanks to this revolutionary idea - and a cheap shoe organizer that I had on hand (yes the cheap wally kind) my hair accessory collection is an immaculate icon of perfection - check it out! I still get warm fuzzies every time I think about it...a practical organizational solution for something that has haunted me for years (yes with life highlights like this - how could life get any better?)

Baptism Weekend

This weekend our daughter got baptized. It was pretty amazing. Grandparents and an aunt and cousin came out on Friday. On Saturday, we finally had some nice weather and started the day with a soccer game. You know, she played, we watched. We then came home, and due to the urgency of getting our garden out, and finally having decent weather (snowed Thursday and Friday) and a little unexpected time, we got most of the garden into the garden. We still have approx. 20 more plants inside, but will get them out once we have more walls of water - hard to believe we ran out of them! Thanks to Grandpa for all of his help filling those babies up... what a back strain!

The remainder of the day seemed to be filled with the baptism. Since I'm blogging about it, I wanted to share a little bit about what we believe in regards to baptism:

Faith in Jesus Christ and repentance prepare you for baptism and receiving the gift of the Holy Ghost. Jesus Christ taught by example that everyone must be baptized of water and of the Spirit (the Holy Ghost) for the remission, or forgiveness, of sins. Through baptism by one who holds priesthood authority and through receiving the Holy Ghost, you will be spiritually reborn.

When you are baptized by one with the priesthood authority given by God, having repented you receive a remission of your sins (Acts 2:38). You make a covenant, or promise, with God to accept Jesus Christ as your Savior, to follow Him, and to keep His commandments. In return, He promises to forgive your sins and let you return to live with Him, provided you keep your covenants. You are briefly immersed in water, as Jesus Christ was baptized. Baptism by immersion is a sacred symbol of the death, burial, and Resurrection of Jesus Christ, and it represents the end of your old life and the beginning of a new life as a disciple of Jesus Christ.

We must be baptized to become members of the restored Church—The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints—and to eventually enter the kingdom of heaven. This ordinance is a law of God and must be performed by His authority. A bishop or mission president must give a priesthood holder permission to perform a baptism or conferral of the Holy Ghost.

Little children do not need to be baptized until they reach the age of accountability, which is eight years of age, as they are redeemed through the mercy of Jesus Christ ( Moroni 8:4–24; Doctrine and Covenants 68:27.)

This information comes from www.mormon.org and similar information can be found at www.lds.org (and their explanations tend to be much more succinct than mine.)

After getting ready, we went to the church and had the honor of witnessing Carlie's baptism as she made special covenants with God. She was baptized by her father, and then confirmed by her father, while her grandfathers, a friend, and two members of the bishopric stood in the confirmation circle.
There really aren't words to express my feelings and emotions of this sacred event. We are so grateful to all who shared this special day with us. We are also very grateful to everyone who gave fantastic talks, played and led the music, and did the musical number - it was all very sweet. Everything went smoothly, and a very sweet spirit was there. We were pleased that some friends, two of her teachers from school, and some neighbors also attended.
After she was baptized, she said that she felt special inside - she felt something she'd only really felt once before (when she made a really good decision, when faced with a very difficult choice.) We are so proud of her, and her desires to make good choices.
Thanks to everyone for their love and support. It's been a busy, but amazing weekend!
I included a couple of pictures of the ladybug release - a friend gave her 300+ ladybugs to release after her baptism - what a thoughtful gift - she knows our daughter well!

Painting

I love to paint. At least I usually think I do, until I get half way through.
Several years ago, my husband and I had some oops paint, which we decided to experiment with. The final product was a peach accent wall (I'm not sure what it was accenting though.) Yes - for three years my wall in my bedroom has been peach. I'm not really a peachy type of girl by the way - and I've hated it, but never had the time to get around to changing it. So, yesterday, I got rid of the peach. I have a wonderful friend who assisted me in the entire process from start to finish - thanks for the help! Here are some pics from the project, along with the final product.
I LOVE how it turned out!
Here's the before:


Here's the during - how could I NOT resist this self portrait? (I say that ANYONE who does this on someone else's camera deserves to have it posted on the web - there's no argument!)


Finally, here it is all dried and put back together.

What a man!

So, I recently had a birthday. I just had to post these photos of my man. He came home from work early because he had to 'get some things done.'
He made me a German chocolate cake (my favorite), with homemade frosting.
What an awesome job - I'm so blessed to have such a fantastic, amazing husband.
Thanks sweetie!
Check out the intense concentration!


Finished product

Poke the Pappa!

So, we came home from church today and our youngest (the first to enter the house again) came back out telling us there was (yes, once again) a fire inside.
Oh, my.

We were a bit skeptical, but since I continue to re-use (and dishwash) sour cream cartons it was possible, but how can I toss them?...this is green Colorado - come on! However, it was true. Our house smelled like an old hotel lounge - nasty old smoke and all. As I continued into the kitchen, I opened the oven door and easily identified the problem.
This morning, in our haste to rush out the door, I frantically scrubbed a few potatoes, turned the oven to time bake (so they'd be hot and ready when we walked in the door since we never seem to be able to catch breakfast on Sunday mornings) and threw the potatoes in as we rushed out the door.

Now - I specifically remember my 8th grade home economics teacher telling us that you have to poke a potato with a fork or knife before MICROWAVING it. But nothing - nothing about just normal oven baked potatoes. Apparently, she never told us - but it is true - they will explode. I have the photo to prove it. It completely lost half of itself!


And here's the shell of what was left:

And now - we have candles burning in every room of the house - trying to get rid of that lounge smell... what will the home teachers think?
And so finally, the moral of this story - always poke your potatoes.


By the way - on an editorial note - it IS possible for me to write about something other than the weather, food, and fires. I'll let you know when I do.

Cactus for Dinner?

So - I've been lugging a recipe around for over four years. I found it in the gourmet section of the newspaper several years ago, and I've had it on my menu at least six different times each year, and then chickened out. I finally decided to make it. Since I know some of my readers may be skeptical, I thought I'd do a photo documentation - I know you are just fascinated. Move over Emeril. Anyways - my friend said that she felt sorry for my family - can you believe it?? I think what she meant is that she and her family are totally jealous of my culinary prowess and she wishes SHE could make cactus soup. Just for that - here's the recipe

Mushroom Cactus Soup with Tomatillos
(Doesn't that title just sound AWESOME?)

1 lb. (approx. 2) nopales (cactus leaves)
1/2 lb. ripe tomatoes (2 med)
1/2 large onion
8 cloves of garlic, minced
1/3 c. chopped jalapeño
1/4 t. crushed anise seeds
olive oil
6 c. vegetable or chicken broth
1/2 lb. (5 med) tomatillos, husked and washed
8 large sprigs cilantro

Pre-heat broiler
If nopales have needles/spikes, carefully trim from cactus with scissors or knife.
After removing needles, scrub with clean plastic scouring pad. Rinse with water and brush with olive oil.
Broil, turning occasionally until limp, approx. 10-15 minutes.

Set on large plate to cool, when cool, cut in 1/2 lengthwise, then cut each half into 1/4 inch slices. Set aside.

Place tomatillos and tomatoes whole on baking sheet and broil until soft and blackened in spots - approx. 4 minutes each side. Once cool, peel tomatoes.


Combine garlic, jalapeño, onion, and anise with enough olive oil to sauté vegetables in large stock pot. (Note, use gloves when seeding and chopping jalapeños. Removing inner seeds and veins will greatly reduce the jalapeños'heat.) Cook over medium until onions are tender and garlic is fragrant (6 min.)
Combine tomatoes and tomatillos in food processor with 2 cups stock and cilantro. Puree until chunky smooth. Add this to garlic and onion mixture along with remaining stock, and simmer over medium. Add thinly sliced mushrooms.

Cover, allow to simmer 20 minutes.

Add cactus to soup and simmer 5 minutes more.

Just for the record - the cactus has almost an asparagus like texture and maybe taste. The broth is amazing - it almost reminds me of a taco soup (but better) type broth. I thought the soup was fantastic. One of my kids said it was 'delicioso,' the other stated it was 'awful' - that's the picky one that doesn't like much of anything though. My husband said it was good - he really liked the broth, but didn't love the cactus. They ate it all at dinner if that was any indication. Any way you look at it - what a fun adventure!

Soccer Season has begun

Yesterday was our first real day of soccer. Yes, officially, - the season started at the beginning of the month, however, we've only been able to have 2 practices (one cut short) due to inclement weather. Thankfully, yesterday was bright and clear. Church was fun today, you could tell who all had kids doing soccer, and what time of the day their kids' games were in relation to their first of the season sunburns. I'm sure next Saturday there will be much more sunscreen, and fewer sunburns on Sunday. Anyways - I thought that pictures were being frantically taken (once again by that unnamed person), but I only found one. So - here it is. We did great in the game - even though we lost. There were a few exciting moments, most of them consisted of our yelling, while the shoelace was being tied and the ball was coming in that direction! It was pretty fun for a first time game... I can't wait to see how it all looks at the end of the season!
Our child came out of the game talking the talk. It was a great morning! Go team go!

Another Recipe

Today while exercising his culinary skills, some unnamed person happened to spill something in my recipe book. Normally, I wouldn't care, but in the inside pages of my recipe book, I've handwritten a few favorite recipes that I've picked up along the way. The pages were glued together, and even re-wetting them and gently prying was not effective in salvaging some of my favorites.
One of my favorites which was lost today was for Pecan Praline Cookies. In October of 2003, our newspaper ran a story of a firefighter cook-off in California. One of the prize winning recipes was from a Terry O'Reilly - and I loved this recipe - the cookies are great and they look fantastic too!
I was SO relieved to find in on the web - so I thought I'd post it here for posterities' sake. Yes, another recipe. By the way - if you ever make Kalua Pork (especially on Passover) 3 T. of salt is WAY too much!

Pecan Praline Cookies
1/2 cup butter, softened
11/2 cups packed light brown sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 and 2/3 cups all-purpose flour
11/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
For the icing:
1 cup packed light brown sugar
1/2 cup whipping cream
1 cup powdered sugar
1 cup whole pecans
In large mixer bowl, beat butter and sugar until fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla.
In another bowl, mix flour, baking powder and salt; mix into butter mixture to blend thoroughly. Form tablespoons of dough into balls and place, spaced 2 inches apart on greased baking sheets. Bake 10 to 12 minutes until lightly browned. Cool on pans 10 minutes, then remove to racks to cool completely.
To make icing: In small saucepan over medium heat, mix brown sugar and cream; bring to boil. Cook and stir 2 minutes. Remove from heat and mix in powdered sugar; stir until smooth. Dip bottoms of pecans into icing and place 2 on each cookie; drizzle tops with icing.
Makes about 3 dozen (23/4-inch) cookies.
- Recipe from Terry O'Reilly of Ferndale, Calif., Volunteer Fire Department

911 FIRE!

So here's how the story goes. On Tuesday, it was beautiful out, so my daughter and I decided to walk down to the library and picnic at the park. We had a beautiful time and the weather was gorgeous. We had to hurry to get back home before the other came home from school - and it was all uphill. So - we were hustling - I was dragging the wagon. We were huffing and puffing up the hills, and barely made it home in time. Actually my youngest daughter beat me there (how she glibly runs up hills, I'm just not sure.) Additionally, we had super high winds that day, and so I was red faced, and a little disheveled due to the crazy whipping wind we'd been experiencing.

As I walked up the drive, my little one had already entered the house. She exited and said, "Mom, the house is on fire!" I questioned this in my mind and wasn't too concerned but quickly came inside. True - once inside, I could smell the unmistakable smell of something burning. Carrying the extinguisher, I went through the house, turned off all of the appliances, and tried to track down the offensive smell - to no avail. I called a friend who had a similar experience this winter, when due to a furnace malfunction, her house could have imploded. She said that there was a number you could call and they would just check it out - but it wasn't the bells, lights and whistles of the 911 deal. I called the number - told them I didn't think it was an emergency, I just wanted to see if they could come check it out (she told me they have a nifty machine that detects heat.)
Meanwhile, I straightened a few things up and we waited. Suddenly - I heard sirens coming up the street. Not only did we get the firetruck (yes the really big one), we also got the police and an ambulance. They all parked at the front and 6 fully decked out guys got out with all of their equipment etc. Yes, I was fairly chagrined.


They came in and asked us to please wait outside. They went through the entire house, and finally, they found the problem. I had isolated the smell mainly to the kitchen/living room area - and sure enough. One of the firemen came out of the house with a melted lid from a sour cream container that had been in the dishwasher. Apparently, while we had been out, the dishwasher had been going, and the lid had fallen on top of the dishwasher's heating element.

The firemen were very nice about it and said that they'd much rather that it was this than something else, but...
Yes, - I was fairly embarrassed - yes chagrined, AND embarrassed!




And yes - I only took these photos from a crack from the front door - I didn't want to be THAT obvious about it!

Recent Photos

I thought I'd post some recent photos - yes I've been taking them, just not posting.
For the birthday - we decided not to do a big party like we've done in the past since we have more celebrations coming up next month for her. Instead she invited six friends over to play. We still did some games and had cake and ice cream, but it wasn't the traditional birthday party, and honestly, much of it was spent out on the tramp. Much less stress for me!




As you can see - we are REALLY ready for spring! The snow still tastes good though!


Here are some pictures of my growing garden (albeit a few weeks ago.) I will be putting it in the ground soon, (I was hoping today, but due to the storm last night that left about 3 inches of snow - it may wait until tomorrow.)


Here's some wheat bread I made a couple of weeks ago.


I thought this photo was kind of random. I just meant to take a picture when my rototiller got here, but then - how often do you see two ups truck like this in front of your house? We could just see their hands as they passed some things back and forth and synchronized their little machines.

Recent Recipes - Fast, easy and impressive

I always tell people I'll give them the recipe for something and then I forget and never do it. That may be one of the reasons why I have so many friends - you can count on me.
So - I decided I'd post a few of my more recent and favorite ones.
This first I found while looking through a friend's recipes. It was a handwritten recipe titled 'cornflake globs,' which honestly doesn't sound very appealing. However, after looking over the recipe I realized they were a recipe that I remember from my childhood - the original "Barf Bars". Yes - as unappetizing as they sound, I was thrilled to chance upon them. My daughter made them, and all of my friends (and hers) seemed to like them and want the recipe. As a kid, I remember someone taking them to school as their birthday treat, and my friends clamoring over them on other occasions. Despite the unpalatable title, here they are - the bonus is that they take approximately 5 minutes to make - maybe 10 to cool?, and use only 4 ingredients which you may already have in your home right now...(quick FHE treat anyone?)

Barf Bars
1 c. light corn syrup (this would be in color rather than calories)
1 c. sugar
1 c. peanut butter
6 c. cheerios

Mix syrup and sugar in sauce pan and bring to a boil while stirring. Allow to cook for 2 minutes while stirring constantly. Add peanut butter to mixture, mix, then pour over cheerios and stir until coated. Pour contents onto a piece of waxed paper, or into a 9x13 pan (greased or sprayed with Pam), and mold into shape of pan (like you do with rice krispy treats). Allow to cool, and cut into bars. Once you see the finished product, you may understand the title. Apparently, they can be made with corn flakes as well.


Another super quick, 4 ingredient recipe:
This is a great treat, especially for those who love english toffee, but who may be intimidated by candy making, or short on time.

Mock Toffee

1 c. butter
1 c. brown sugar
1-2 c. milk chocolate chips
1-2 packages saltine crackers (salted)
1/2 c. chopped almonds (optional garnish)

Pre-heat oven to 400*.
In saucepan bring butter and brown sugar to a boil over medium heat. Once bubbles begin to start, do NOT stir. Allow to boil for three minutes. Meanwhile, line cookie sheet with saltine crackers, salty side up (pan may be lined with foil for easier clean up.) Once mixture has boiled for 3 minutes, pour over saltines and spread evenly. Place in oven for 5 minutes. Remove and immediately sprinkle milk chocolate chips on top. When they have melted, spread evenly. Garnish with chopped nuts almonds and allow to cool. Break into pieces to serve.
**NOTE: You must use milk chocolate chips for this recipe as semi-sweet chips will not set up after melting.



I found the following recipe on a RS calendar/bulletin last fall and it looked interesting so I saved it. It received rave reviews from everyone at my husband's office:

Earthquake Cake

Coconut to cover bottom of 9x13 pan
1 c. chopped nuts
1 German chocolate cake mix (I used devils food - still worked great)
1 stick margarine
1 lb. powdered sugar (4 c.)
1 8 oz cream cheese brick

Grease pan. Cover bottom with coconut, then nuts. Prepare cake mix as directed. Pour over coconut and nuts. Combine margarine, cream cheese and powdered sugar and cream together. Spoon over cake but do not mix (yes this is a weird part - I ended up using my hands and trying to sort of place/spread it out - but do it anyways.) Bake at 350 for one hour (I think mine took a little less due to altitude - check it when it REALLY smells like a cooked cake.)
**This is called earthquake cake because when it is done it looks like an earthquake hit it. This is fun as it definitely isn't your everyday cake. Also works in a dutch oven and serves well either hot or cold.

My addictive salad
A friend invited us for dinner and I helped her make this salad - since then, I've slightly adapted it, and have become addicted to it - and I have always hated oil and vinegar dressings!

Drizzle approximately 2-3 T. olive oil in the bottom of salad bowl (depending on how big your salad will be). Add 1-2 finely chopped fresh garlic cloves. Add 1-3 t. dill (fresh or dried). Allow to seep for 5-10 minutes. Add salad greens (not iceberg,) 1/2 c. Craisins, and 1/2 c. nuts of your choice (I generally use whole toasted almonds) and a pinch of salt and pepper. Toss to coat all ingredients with olive oil. Add enough balsamic vinegar to coat, and toss everything again in the vinegar. Parmesan or feta cheese may be added as a garnish. Serve immediately.

I learned that if you toss first with the olive oil and later with the vinegar, you don't have to deal with the oily taste (which I hate) nor any separation problems.

I'd love to hear if/how they turn out for you...and for the record - I can and do cook healthy stuff too. My husband recently started taking treats into work on staff meeting days, so I've been enjoying trying new recipes. Sigh...I'm so domestic.

Oh my GOODNESS!!

I am SO dead. We spent a pretty crazy day today, and it may take us weeks to recover! We started out the morning sleeping in (which I have to say is very nice, and since when is 7:15 sleeping in?).
Anyways, my husband ran to the auto parts store while I made breakfast, and then a friend stopped by to help us get the fuel pump back in the car (which they'd taken out 3 weeks ago). He decided to have breakfast with us, and then they went out to work.

Meanwhile, I decided to get rid of some cardboard boxes that were in the front room. I personally assembled our little rototiller - and felt very cool when it was all assembled and worked and everything! No masculine help whatsoever!

Once they got the fuel pump in, my husband took over and got it gassed up and going. He had a blast tilling the garden - I was sort of jealous (except that I did it all last year -so I was okay to share). After he tilled, I hoed (boy that's a fun verb to try and figure out how to conjugate) and cleaned out all the weeds and rocks that were unearthed. I then went through the strawberry and raspberry patches cleaning out all the old leaves and debris. What a job! Before we started, we put together a compost device, which I'm afraid is just a couple of pieces of plastic - but we'll see how they work. Meanwhile, my husband decided to try out the thatch attachment for the tiller. He started to de-thatch the grass. What a project...the girls and I were in charge of raking all of the grass that was de-thatched, and boy that baby worked. I have several blisters. I finally resorted to filling up the wagon and hauling all of the dead/dry grass. On the front side of our house I think I got 4 wagon loads alone! The composter is now completely full, as is our trash can - and we have no place to put our garbage...
But - our yard looks great. We planted a couple of bulbs, but most importantly, we got ALL of the toys from last summer (previously hidden under the snow) out of the yard. It almost looks like a yard, and we even got some week killer put down which we hope will clean everything out of the garden before we begin planting.

Anyways - no, I didn't wear sunscreen, yes I got sunburned, yes part of our lawn was still frozen and ice chunks came up, yes our lawn looks better than our neighbors', and yes I'm exhausted and going to bed. I surpassed all of even my own expectations for getting things done today. We even had time for a trip to get some sewing things I need, and to thankfully, let someone else make dinner for us. Too bad it took us so long to get there and back, because it took too much effort to push that gas pedal down to more than 50 mph. (Never thought you'd hear me say that one huh?) :)
Ah...to sleep - there's the rub. That's it - I'm out.

Its finally here!

After four years of deliberation, debate, hand turning, borrowing, and compromise, we finally agreed, and it came today. Here's our new baby!


Yes - I know, we must be sick and wrong, and WHO gets excited about this? Me. I can't wait to get my garden planted in the ground. Our pumpkin plants (yes in the front room) are getting root bound, and sick. They also have yellow buds getting ready to open up - they need more space! I can't wait to give it to them - this is SO exciting. Did I mention that it has been snowing all week? I'm not sure how wet the dirt will be, but I just need a small patch for these guys, and to throw out my weed killer.

Today, I've been busily cleaning, running errands and sewing - yes I am making the baptism dress - I hope it turns out - of course since I'm a great seamstress - well that remains to be seen. Every week a couple of friends come over and we have lunch together and sew on our projects - a friend is working on the same pattern for her daughter, and another friend gives us helpful hints and advice - as such, I believe there is hope.

I think I'll be getting an early birthday present today since both of my sewing machines have given up. I've had machine envy ever since a couple of my friends got new ones last fall when they were on sale at the local warehouse. Well, they are there again - just in the nick of time. What a pity - this dress is getting rather costly.

I am proud to state that this week instead of blogging, I cleared 6 baskets of clean laundry from my room - which is now spotless, and my upstairs and book room also got cleaned. My drawers and cupboards still remain clean (from the previous cleaning out they got before Easter). I helped out at the school this week with the kindergarten round up - they always need me to translate and help the kids who don't speak english, so I got to help with this once again. Yesterday I got my menu and shopping list through the beginning of May planned out, and I'm slowly working to get everything back into a civilized state again. I'd really love to re-claim my front room from the garden area, and get my stuff out into the ground under the walls of water.

I'm sure I'll post the photos of the garden as soon as it gets in - for all of you gardening enthusiasts out there!

According to an exhaustive Disney personality test, I am...

Free-spirited and wise. With a strong passionate spirit that touches and changes all who know me. The wisdom and common sense that I have is really what guides me through life. Even so, I also have a very playful side that loves adventure and excitement.

I am Pocahantas (evidently with too much time on my hands)- who are you?


Which Disney Princess Are You?

Anyways

People are often unreasonable, illogical, and self-centered;
Forgive them anyway.

If you are kind,
people may accuse you of selfish ulterior motives;
Be kind anyway.

If you are successful,
you will win some false friends and some true enemies;
Succeed anyway.

If you are honest and frank,
people may cheat you;
Be honest and frank anyway.

What you spend years building,
someone could destroy overnight.
Build anyway.

If you find serenity and happiness,
they may be jealous;
Be happy anyway.

The good you do today,
people will often forget tomorrow;
Do good anyway.

Give the world the best you have,
and it may never be enough;
Give the best you've got anyway.

You see, in the final analysis
it is between you and God;
it was never between you and them anyway.
Mother Teresa

This is probably one of my all time favorite quotes. It is so true. Kudos to my husband - I was struggling through some stuff yesterday - thought I'd had some closure on some things, and heard from a friend that some people have been slandering me - it re-opened what I'd just closed and went a little deeper. Anyways, I was reminded last night that in the end - I have to stand before the Savior and HE knows. It really doesn't matter what others think or say (even though it feels like it) - what really matters is how I stand before God. That's it. Sometimes its good to remember. ANYWAYS

April 2, 2008

Spring appears to finally be on its way in! Hooray.
Although I am working on some changes. During sunday school, we talked about Jacob - and how he labored to write the things which were most important. I thought about what I write about in my blog - yes - the WEATHER. So - I'm working hard to only write about the important things (who said haircuts and pedicures aren't important?) So at least - I'm going to try.

Its been an adjustment to not be teaching seminary, although there are some great perks. I'm still getting up super early (why break the habit I guess). However, I'm really enjoying going back to the books like Psalms and Proverbs etc which we were only able to really spend one day on, and to slow down and REALLY go through them. I'm especially excited about Isaiah - I'm going to take a lot of time on that one - and I can't wait! (Yes - certifiably crazy) But it has been great to get up and have 1+ hours to just study for me. I've been using a journal off and on to write down stuff that really hits me, and to jot down my thoughts as I read. Its amazing how much more meaningful it makes it for me. I've decided that I will continue to use my earlymorningmoments seminary blog, where I'll periodically post some cool stuff I've learned or gone over. I'm going to continue to work on it as though I was teaching (but at a slower pace)so I'll still be using all of the same reference materials etc. So - check it out periodically - cause I'll still share.
This morning in Psalms I found a bunch of chiasmas - I just think they are super cool and the people who used them are pretty darn smart - I get excited just to be able to recognize them!

Earlier this week the roads were all closed for about 14 hours due to a horrific storm which stranded obscene amounts of travelers and included fatalities. I know I obsess about the weather, but in the mountains, it changes so quickly and drastically. I'm so grateful that my family was protected - but it reminds me how quickly and fleeting life can be.
I'm working hard to spend more time with my kids and be a better wife and mom. Its spring and I'm amazed at how much more relaxed I am - I feel like I have a new lease on life - lots of changes coming - pretty exciting. We are starting soccer this week as well..I'm a little tentative, but I figure it's at least worth a try once!

My iris' are coming up - that's pretty exciting too! Finally - today I did get a pedicure, but the best part of the day was teaching a friend to make wheat bread, and then going for my first outdoor run of the season - it was AWESOME. The sun shining, my daughter keeping up with me, and just that amazing endorphin release, and the clear fresh air. Life doesn't get much better. There's so much to be grateful for!

12 INCHES!!

Well I did it again. I LOST 12 inches.
Unfortunately, this isn't how many inches I've lost how you'd think.

Yesterday, the girls and I went to Glenwood where we all got haircuts.
Our eldest's is all finally one length (she had to grow out her layers).
Our youngest just got a simple trim.
I lost 12 inches. Yes - my hair was to my waist, and it is now on my shoulders (goes to show how short I am!)

I'd decided it was time for a trim, but every three years I do locks of love. This was my third time, and this was the year to do it again. I decided that since summer is coming, instead of a trim now and then donating the hair at the end of the summer, I'd just do it all at once.

It will definitely take some getting used to - as it always does, but I believe it is for a great cause, and it's nice to know that I could help someone else.

Now we're ready - bring on summertime!

Another officially finished

Well, tonight I spent some time in the Bishop's office where he officially thanked me for teaching seminary thus far this year. I've known that this was happening for some time, but finally tonight he said we could let people know about it - so there's the official announcement.
Honestly, it has been an incredibly tough year for me - things really never got off on the right foot from the beginning, and sort of went downhill from there. Anyways - I got an answer several months ago that I had done all I could. The Bishop recently got a very strong and similar answer. I've handed it off to a parent and wish him well. It's been tough since seminary was SO good in the last place I taught. Anyways, I really did my VERY best and about killed myself in the process. I'll admit I am a little bit sad walking away, but it seems to be time, and I did all I could. I've learned a bunch about people and loads more - even if it wasn't pleasant. I'm looking forward to reading anything I want, and doing lots of sewing, and NOT getting up at 4:30 am. I hope to never have to do that again - ever in my life.
Guess I'm on to a new chapter - and I'm pretty excited about it.

I win!!

I had no contestants in the last contest - oh well - anyways, I finally got the slide show figured out, so I figure I win! Hope you enjoy, and hopefully, I can duplicate this and do some more!

New Contest

Hello everyone. Yes - my blog is currently on the fritz. I was excited to be technical and put a slideshow on my blog. Unfortunately, using picaso, the show didn't work, I just got the first four photos. I tried to get it off and ended up with two!

So- here are the contest rules. The first one to get me some decent directives on removing a picaso thing from my blog wins. I've spent hours. It may just stay this way for a while - at least until we have a contest winner!

Officially finished

So - I know that I walked in the Graduation commencement ceremonies last year. I still had three classes I was finishing during the summer and would have been done. So somehow, they threw the - oh - you are still missing one class ringer at me. I started seminary in the fall, and kept falling asleep on my scriptures every night - thus dragging the entire process way too far out.

I am proud to say that yesterday I took my very last final and should (really officially) be completely done (as long as I passed the final). In a few short weeks (once the exam is graded) I will have all of my credits transfered, and I should receive my diploma. So - it was only 17 years in the making - but I think I'm REALLY done this time. I've been so excited that I can read any book I want now without feeling guilty about needing to study! Woohoo..
We celebrated last night with carne asada and a very long drawn out killer bunnies game.

Happy Easter and then some

We had some of Jeff's family spend Easter with us. It was great to see and play with cousins - thanks for coming we had a great time.

I have to say - meal wise, we weren't traditional. I was browsing Allrecipes.com - it was interesting to see that the most popular searches were for ham, scalloped potatoes etc. All I could think of in regards to a traditional Easter Dinner was ham rolls out on Grandma H's lawn with a plethora of other foods.

As a result, we had taquitos. No - not the pre-made mini rolled up kind. The mexican homemade kind that are amazing with their special sauce. We also had black beans (could we not?), fresh pineapple, cantaloupe and veggies. For dessert we crossed genres and had trifle. The kids did an easter egg hunt (more candy?) outside. Later in the evening I made some homemade tomato soup and my nephew Andrew made some of his famous grilled cheese sandwiches. He was a great sous chef this weekend.
We read the resurrection story, and made resurrection cookies last night. The kids had a great time beating the pecans to death. They DID turn out hollow this morning!

Someone asked for my homemade tomato soup recipe. Grandma J, used to have me help her make this, (she always had me stir it) and I recently re-invented it. I think it is now mine - inspired by Grandma J.

2 quarts canned tomatoes (home canned - should have a little sugar and salt)
1 garlic clove
1/4 onion
1 T. Knorr Caldo con sabor de Pollo (Chicken Flavor Bouillon) (this can be found in the mexican section of most grocery stores, Walmart and Costco)
1-2 quarts of milk
1/4 c. butter
1/4 c. flour
basil, oregano, pepper to taste

There is no exactness to this - you have to do it to taste, desired thickness, and desired amount - it can be easily halved. This amount easily serves 10 people.

Place tomatoes, garlic, onion, basil, oregano, and chicken bouillon in blender on high. Allow to run for a couple of minutes. Meanwhile, melt butter in heavy bottomed pan on med-high. Add flour and mix, making a nice roux. This may need more or less flour. You want a thick paste (almost too thick) consistency. While stirring, allow to cook for a few minutes, taking care not to burn. Place sieve over pan, and pour tomato mixture into roux, straining out all seeds. Quickly stir into roux, making sure to eliminate any lumps. Continue stirring until entire mixture is smooth, heated, and on the brink of boiling. Add milk (once again - to taste and desired thickness), stirring constantly. Bring to a boil (stirring constantly - generally 10-15 minutes) and serve. Season with pepper and fresh basil to taste.

There it is. Better than Campbells, and from the garden. For those of you who try it, let me know how it turns out - if I need to change anything in the written recipe form. It is hard to put down a recipe that I've sort of made up over the years, so I hope this is exact enough.

Okay - enough of this blogging already. It is spring break - we need to go have some fun!

March 21, 2008

Welcome SPRING!!!
I believe it is offically spring - therefore we celebrated in grand fashion - with snow!
I'm too tired of ranting about the weather.
Suffice it to say, spring will hopefully appear by June.

I didn't mention that it has been warmer.
As a result, I had 5 inches of water flooding on the side of the house (only outside at this point) due to the neighbor's poor run-off plan (so what if its an empty lot and they don't have a plan?)
It totally eroded part of our rock retaining wall while a river ran through it.
I have 2-3 inches of mud and silt on my lawn now.

So - I spent Wednesday afternoon digging a trench.
Yes - in the NEIGHBOR'S lot - so that THEIR water can not drain into my yard.
But at least the water goes along the property line now, and not into my basement.

I also cleaned out all of my cupboards on Wednesday. It was quite the productive day.


So - onto the politics.
Yesterday I went to my first town forum.
For those of you who haven't been - it was actually pretty fun. They gave out cookies and bottled water, AND, I get to be on TV!! They televised it last night, and will re-run it on channel 20. Too bad we don't have tv.

It was pretty fascinating. There are a bunch of people running for
office and they got to answer questions on all of the super hot issues.
I even submitted a question, and mine was the first audience questions which they asked the candidates. Too bad the moderators (who have an agenda in regards to my question) edited my question so as to elicit the response they wanted.

(A newspaper reporter sponsored the forum. Her husband is adamantly opposed to the proposal I sent to the Town Board to close the BLM area right near my house to motorized vehicular traffic) so she changed my question before she asked it.

I was surprised to note that the politician who I REALLY didn't like is who I'll be voting for. It was amazing how my mind changed once I took the time to attend, and really listen to the different positions and views these people have on running our town. Everyone has an agenda - it was interesting to see what the different agendas actually are.

Imagine - all of this from the anti-political girl.
There's another meeting next week. I think I'm getting a babysitter.

Race Photos

Here are a few photos from our trip to Moab...

Ecclesiastes

So I know I've got a link for my seminary and if you really wanted to hear about it you would link. Anyways today in seminary we studied the book of Ecclesiastes (I know, bonus points just for spelling it right). As we read through chapter 3 and listened to the Byrds (Turn Turn Turn) we saw that it follows chapter three (1-8) almost word for word. We talked about seasons of life and priorities. I think I am in a season (at least today) of gratitude. I'm really grateful for everything I have - my family, my beliefs, health...the list could go on and on. Feel free to link for a more in depth discussion...
I'm just happy to be here.
The coolest thing about Ecclesiastes is the second to last verse of the whole book. The entire book is fairly depressing - we joked about it being pretty emo. Anyways, you can count in each chapter how many times the word 'vanity' is used. In this context, it means 'transitory or fleeting'. The writer talks about how EVERYTHING in life is 'vanity' or 'fleeting'. We waste so much time on stuff that just doesn't matter a bit...
So finally in chapter 12:13 he says..."Let us hear the conclusion of the matter, Fear God and keep his commandments..."
Pretty simple and basic. Don't waste life on what doesn't matter. Love and respect God, and be obedient. Pretty darn good advice for this world. I've been listening to talk radio - everything is apparently going to pot - the economy,the political arena, the war etc etc.. Maybe we should all just take this simple (yet so effective) advice - forget about the petty stuff - focus on God and His counsels, and it will all work out.
Interestingly - there's a pretty strong parallel there... Solomon was the king after David's golden dynasty. After Solomon, everything pretty much fell apart and was on it's way out. Of course - Solomon's actions helped it - but isn't that where we are today too? I think it is that whole hindsight thing.

Anyways - there's a little something to think about - what's REALLY important?
Carpe Diem!

Gardening, weather, and freebies

In the few short moments of this blog - I would like to address something very important which has recently come to my attention.

I was very disappointed to notice, that when I offered a fantastic prize for being my 100th blog visitor, I suddenly had 3 comments posted to my blog...
However, when I've mentioned the weather and even posted pictures of my meager beginnings of a garden, or my husband shoveling the tramp in his p.j.s, - all parts of my mundane boring life, all I received was apathy and no responses whatsoever...

So - from here on out I may consider random prizes or freebies to blog visitors...however, to subsidize the costs of shipping and prizes, we'll have to arrange something...maybe a minimal charge to visit the site - payable through paypal?
What do you think?

Oh - by the way, Tisha won the award...please be sure to watch your mail for the amazing prize!! Once you get it - please post a picture to the blog so everyone else can wish that they had been as lucky as you. Thanks to Amy (101) and Mary (102)... it was a pretty stiff race.

By the way -
Q:why did the matador trade in his swords for a gun?
A: He wanted to shoot the bull.
Thank goodness for laffy taffy.

Lucky 100 winner!

So - I noticed this morning that I've had 99 visits to my blog...
I can't wait to see who my lucky 100 will be.
Whoever you are - please post a comment with your name and a generous prize will be mailed to you (if I have your address that is)...
Anyways - CONGRATULATIONS!!! TODAY IS YOUR LUCKY DAY!!

Get your garden going!

Here's our first sign of life from our pumpkin plants on March 11th.


2 days later, we now have 13 pumpkin plants -


We love tomatoes - this year we have 3 varieties - Beefsteak, 4th of July (hybrid early) and cherry tomatoes...here they are 2 days ago - our first sprouts!


Finally, here are our tomato sprouts as of today - 2 days later...we have 54 little tomato plants growing in our front room.

I really love to garden, and each spring I get so excited as
we start to think about what we want to do in our garden.
Last year we got ALOT of tomatoes. This is great though, because
we use them like crazy all year round, and really love them.
Our pumpkins didn't do so very well last year, so we are trying
again. We decided to only start these right now and next month we'll
start some peppers and some other things.
I just decided what I want for my birthday - a rototiller. Every year
we get our garden in generally on my birthday, using water walls.
Finally, a month and a half later, in June we take some of the water
walls back off. I say, hand turning your soil isn't fun...
Anyways, that's my weekly excitement.

I haven't been exaggerating!!

So - I couldn't resist not posting this photo.
We had so much snow that we were afraid that the tramp would rip - it was so close to the ground anyways.



Not only did we have to shovel the walks, but now we have to shovel the tramp!!
What a good sport.. note I think he's in his slippers and pj's!

March 11, 2008

You know - I started to blog about the weather -
Who cares about the weather?

(Other than me - as I like to gripe about it)

So... we have been getting back into the run of life
We went to Moab last week.
We had some friends join us, and we spent a day
hiking through Arches National park.
I still have to say - Arches is one of my most
favorite spots on the planet.
(Besides Tobago that is)

The kids had a great time playing in the sand
and running around.
My husband ran the Moab half-marathon. He shaved 13 minutes
off of last year's time and finished in 1:36:00
It was a pretty cold day, and he was so excited to finally
start running after standing in the canyon freezing in his
shorts.
He did a great job though and we are super proud of him!
He has now determined that he wants to run a marathon
and qualify for and run in the Boston. That's something
to look forward to!
Unfortunately, I forgot my camera, so I'll be jerry rigging it
to get any photos on the blog - I'm not sure how to
make it work with a disposable - but never fear I will!~

It seems like everything always goes back to the weather.
I run out of things to ramble about and here I go on the weather
again.

I'm planning on making some caramels for a friend's birthday today
I thought I'd post the best ever caramels recipe.
It's from an old church cookbook, and the recipe is from
the Pabsts. I've made it several times and it always turns out great.

Caramels

1 Cup Butter
1 1/2 c. white corn syrup
1 can sweetened condensed milk
2 Cups sugar

Combine in large saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly until comes to a boil. Continue stirring and cooking until candy reaches softball stage, 229-231 (depending on degree of hardness desired.) Pour immediately into a buttered 9x9x2 pan. Allow to cool then cut into squares. Wrap individual pieces in waxed paper.

Another awesome recipe from the Pabsts' (for posterity's sake)

Almond Brittle

1 pkg (6 oz) semi sweet or milk chocolate chips
1 c. butterscotch chips
1 c. blanched almonds (or whatever you have - toast them first though)

Put almonds on cookie sheet. Salt and toast at 350* for 10 minutes. Meanwhile, put chips in a pan and melt over low. Stir in toasted almonds. Spread on buttered cookie sheet or waxed paper (spread as thinly as possible). Chill until firm, then break into pieces.

Warning - this is addictive.

Oh - I do have something productive to report...
yesterday I spent the day and cleaned out my drawers.
Yes - my so unexciting life - but I finally have organized
drawers - and after 4 years of living here - boy is
it nice! I also cleaned out the study and got it
mostly organized. Soon - we will conquer!
So - there are the ramblings of a busy housewife -
who should be cleaning instead of blogging!
Go make some caramels!

I LOVE MY BROTHER

Did I mention that I have 3?
Anyways - I have one brother - he's very compassionate.
I got an e-mail from him today - (he's a doctor - how
could he not appreciate my 'real life' post?)
Anyways - he didn't want me to look stupid - so
he thought I might change my information about the
whole 7 years and the leap year. Apparently, due
to a gregorian calendar and an algorithm, leap year
happens every 4 years, not every 7.

Now where did that 7 come from?
Boy - am I embarrassed.
By the way, did you know that cicadas hatch and
reproduce every seven years?
My brother did!