Simple Supermom

Wonderful Wife: "Bike Ride"

2012-02-15T06:00:00.000-07:00

I was amazed at how much more our marriage came alive after I finally said "yes" to my husband's repeated invitations to go bike riding with him. He wanted me to go with him so badly he even picked out and surprised me with a new bike with a baby seat attached on the back so we could go anytime without needing to find a babysitter.

I quickly noticed that I was feeling happier and more energized, my toddler loved our rides and especially the stop at the park at the halfway point. It was also like a daily date time.

Those bike rides really did change our relationship to an even more closely linked and happily newlywed type feeling again.

Be Inspired,

Holiday Hair: Heart Halo

2012-02-14T10:15:00.001-07:00

Happy Valentine's Day!

Although I haven't been there in a while, I am sure these ideas came into my head because of posts on Babesinhairland. In the pictures above, I just did three corkscrew braids (two on the right side of her head and one on the left) and connected all three at the bottom. Then using white ribbon I wrapped it around the left and middle corkscrew braids to make a heart shape.

This one is a fun memory from last year. We used red yarn.

Be Inspired,

Sweetheart Special

2012-02-14T09:42:00.002-07:00

Sweetheart Special

Heart shaped cookie cutters on toast and fried egg+natural fruit strawberry jam and plain greek yogurt+a pink smoothie served in red crystal goblets=one happy sweetheart. Too bad mine isn't here to serve it to . . . so I will send him a picture instead. Enjoy, my Special Sweetheart!

Be Inspired,

Truly Tender: "Loving Little Hands"

2012-02-14T06:00:00.000-07:00

My littlest one loves lotion. It is a special treat to her whenever I stop long enough to let her put some lotion on her hands. I realized that special moment is simple and easy to do and I can still continue with what I need to do afterwards. The couple of extra minutes gives me some breathing time and it helps her feel loved. Soft hands are just a bonus.

Be Inspired,

Musical Motivation: Music Can Transcend Time

2012-02-13T06:00:00.000-07:00

"Music has the power to relieve pain, to transcend time. It is a universal language which unifies and crosses language barriers . . ." (Michael Ballam "The Healing Wings of Music").

Be Inspired,

For tips on teaching children's music in church or at home see my Music Blog

Valentine's Day Breakfast

2012-02-12T15:08:00.000-07:00

Blend a small amount of canned beets (not pickled beets) in your blender and add them to your pancake or waffle batter for a pink surprise. (I didn't use her recipe but I got the idea from "Deceptively Delicious" by Jesica Seinfeld)

I made the pink juice by:

draining 1 can of pineapple, 1 can of pears and puting the juice in my pitcher (I use the ones canned in natural fruit juice, not sugar syrup)
draining a can of beets (I don't reserve the juice from the beets since it creates a taste that is too strong).
In a juicer, juice the pinapple, pears, 1/2 of the beets and 1 large sweet potato (uncooked and unpeeled). Then add the juice to the pithcer with the other reserved juice. (If you don't have a juicer, you could create a smoothie. If you use the juicer remember that the pulp can be used to make great muffins, pancakes or quick bread . . . be creative)
What a healthy and festive drink! It tastes somewhat like drinking a watermelon nectar.

Be inspired,

Simply a Supermom: Rachel with Sun Swing Media

2012-02-12T14:40:00.000-07:00

Rachel Leavitt and her husband, Brent, have started an online business with a goal to create and share uplifting children's media. My daughter and I recently watched the first video: "The Decision." Their videos are based on stories from the Friend Magazine.

This particular story is valuable because in a short, simple way it teaches the importance of not only avoiding pornography, but even more importantly teaches children the importance of going to their parents when they come across pornography and giving their parents a chance to share their good decision with them. Children are much safer this way than if they try to figure out what they just saw by going on an Internet search themselves or by just feeling strange inside and having no one to help them understand why they feel the way they do.

I am very impressed with this video and the lesson it teaches. A perfect teaching moment to share with your children in a very fun, non-confrontational way. I highly recommend it.

Thanks Rachel for being a supermom and helping all the rest of us teach our children in this fun and creative way.

See http://www.sunswingmedia.com for more information or too view "The Decision" or any of their other videos.

Be Inspired,

Jason F. Wright's "Kissing Booth"

2012-02-10T10:05:00.001-07:00

Last Christmas time, I read again the book "Christmas Jars," By Jason F. Wright. I am so thankful for this author who shared his talents with me. A family in this book had an inspiring family tradition where the daughters and mother suddenly yelled out "kissing booth" and then ran to smother their Dad with kisses as he sat in his favorite chair. Not only do I save my extra coins to help someone special, I also have added a kissing booth tradition in my home.

Be Inspired,

Thankful Thinking: The Sound of Water

2012-02-09T07:00:00.000-07:00

I love the sound of the water running in my fish tanks. I am so thankful for waterfalls and the sound of the ocean waves. I love little mini water fountains. The music the sound of water makes is a soothing retreat for me whenever I stop and pay attention to it.

Be Inspired,

Wonderful Wife: "I Will Get That For You!"

2012-02-08T07:00:00.000-07:00

When I was first married, I learned that my husband really felt loved when I would bring him things he asked me to get for him. He didn't see me as a servant, he just loved to ask me to do something for him because he felt so cared for when I would do it. He was really saying: "Do you love me today?"

Now I have found it is even more wonderful when I am the one who thinks of things to do for him without even being asked. Although sometimes I appreciate when I notice him doing those things for himself, I also miss that chance to tell him I love him. I love the look of happiness on his face when I run up to stop him and cheerfully say "I will get that for you!"

Be Inspired,

Truly Tender: "Will You Please Tuck Me In Mom?"

2012-02-07T07:00:00.000-07:00

I am so happy to still hear my oldest daughter come to me each night and say "Will you please tuck me in Mom?" I treasure those special moments. Each time she invites me to tuck her in is a precious moment and I wonder how many of those moments I still have with her. I don't know, so I want to take advantage of it today!

Be Inspired,

Monthly Mini-Mission: February Family Fitness Fun

2012-02-07T06:30:00.000-07:00

I hope to find more joy this month by finding simple and fun ways to foster more movement and energy into my family. I also want to be an example of more physical fitness myself.

I would love your suggestions or experiences!

Be Inspired,

Musical Motivation: "The Healing Wings of Music" by Michael Ballam

2012-02-06T21:44:00.001-07:00

I was very inspired by Michael Ballam's audio book "The Healing Wings of Music." Check out my Music Blog for my review.

Be Inspired,

"Teacher's Packet" for your Music Student

2012-01-30T10:20:00.001-07:00

To find a simple way to motivate your family or your music student to better succeed in their efforts to learn and to practice, check out my music blog to see my directions for assembling a special packet.

Be inspired,

Wonderful Wife: The Wisdom to "Add it to the Ignore List"

2012-01-25T14:37:00.000-07:00

I was inspired when I heard someone tell a story of a woman with great wisdom. I remember it like this:

When she was newly married, she made a list of 10 things her husband did which had the possibility of annoying her in the future and she committed herself to overlooking those characteristics. After she had been married several years, she was asked how she had remained so happily married. Her reply was that whenever something annoyed her about her husband she would simply tell herself that habit, annoyance etc was on her "ignore list."

(I tried to find the source but haven't found it yet. I think it might have been President Monson)

Since hearing of that woman's "ignore list" I have noticed that my husband must have a very good sized ignore list for me since he treats me so well. I was motivated and have happily noticed some changes as I have more often had the wisdom to say "I can ignore that" to myself when something bothers me.

Be inspired,

Truly Tender: Alma Song with my Toddler

2012-01-24T07:26:00.000-07:00

Our family experienced several very tender moments lately as my littlest daughter has become very interested in singing songs together as a family. She has certain signs she uses to let us know what song she is wanting to sing. The one she keeps doing over and over again is to hold up her little fists by her face and scrunch her nose. That means she wants to do the "Book of Mormon Stories" additional verse about Alma. The spirit of peace and happiness just flows into our home when she holds up those little fists and the whole family responds by singing and doing the actions(which we made up) with her. Her favorite part is when we all get down on the floor to show that we are now humble and repentant :)

Be Inspired,

Musically Motivating: Beat vs Rythm

2012-01-23T14:21:00.000-07:00

Check out my new Music blog here to see my definitions

for Beat and Rhythm.

Be Inspired,

Spiritually Saving: God sends babies, not batallions

2012-01-22T12:47:00.001-07:00

“God doesn’t need battalions to accomplish his wonderful work.

He sends beautiful babies"

(Faith precedes a Miracle Spencer W Kimball chapter 12)

I know it is such a privelege to be able to "mother" the children around us, in whatever capacity we are capable of mothering. Every child can be blessed by each woman around them who chooses to nurture, love and care for them.

Be Inspired,

Simply a Supermom: Heather, Courage to Triumph Despite Mesothelioma

2012-01-21T17:06:00.001-07:00

I was so happy to receive an email from Heather about her experience being a supermom by continuing to mother her daughter as well as through courage to keep going through treatment and recovery while suffering from cancer. I am truly inspired by her story and am so excited to share it. Here is Heather's story:

I am a mother to a quirky little 6 yearold, Lily. She is my only child, and mywhole world (I’m sure you know the feeling!) The very beginning of Lily’s life was a little more turbulent than I would have hoped for. WhenLily was just 31/2 months old, I was diagnosed with Mesothelioma; atype of cancer that kills 90-95% of those who have it. As I’m sure you can imagine, the first thing that came to mind when I was diagnosed was mybaby girl and how I wasn’t going to beable to watch her grow up. After allthat, I’m still here 6 years later and cancer free! I'd like to turn my paininto purpose and become someone that other parents can look tofor guidance, inspiration, and hope in situations like my own.

Heather, you are an inspiring, shining example for us all! Thanks so much for sharing your story with me.

Check out Heather's blogto learn more about how she successfully dealt with this daunting challenge.

Be inspired

Thankful Thinking: The Music of the Moon

2012-01-19T21:53:00.000-07:00

I rejoice in the peaceful music withinmy own heart as I look at the moon in the sky.

Then “. . . my immortal spirit mayjoin the choirs above in singing the praises of a just God.” (The Book of Mormon, Another testament of Jesus Christ, quoting King Benjamin, Mosiah 2:28)

Wise Words: Problems vs People

2012-01-18T22:40:00.002-07:00

“Never let a problem to be solved become moreimportant than a person to be loved”

(quoted by Thomas S. Monson, President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on several occasions. Attributed to Barbara Thompson see “Quotable Quotes,” Reader’s Digest, Jan. 1997, 161). )

Towering Tresses: Babes in Hairland, Corkscrew twists

2012-01-17T11:07:00.000-07:00

I love to do hair. One of my newer favorites is the Corkscrew twist braid, especially the uneven corkscrew. I use these little twists in my own and others' hair all the time and they only take seconds to do. I learned how to do this simple braid by watching a video at Babes in Hairland. I love that blog! If you haven't done one before, then check it out for a simple and fun new look. Or if you have, then she has at least 37 different ways to use the twist for something extra amazing.

Be inspired,

Musically Motivating: "Sing, Sing, Sing"

2012-01-16T08:13:00.001-07:00

We turned on the Mormon Channel, which is always motivating. This time, Scripture Stories: TheDoctrine and Covenants, episode 11, Joseph and Emma, was streaming. I love these scripture stories and primary songs in the background as we do our daily morning routine. When the children in the program began to sing this round ,"sing a song", my oldest daughter and I instinctively began singing along and a wonderful, peaceful and happy feeling united us. I felt the specialgift of music within me being released a little more. I felt closer to my Heavenly Home and tothose there waiting for me.

Be inspired,

Spiritually Saving: Relief Society's Relevance to Young Single Adults

2012-01-15T05:36:00.003-07:00

I found much of this radio program related to me, even though I am blessed with marriage at this time. I am thankful for my earthly mother and for Relief Society.

See “ReliefSociety Questions and Answers "episode 12 Relief Society's Relevance to Young Single Adults, with Julie B Beck, on the Mormon channel.

Be Inspired,

Roaring Raves: The Pew Mormon Study

2012-01-15T05:15:00.002-07:00

I read some informational articles about how the world thinks of usas members of the church:

Be inspired,

I love you Dad! You are my "Captain Moroni."

2012-01-14T16:53:00.003-07:00

Dad,

You are my hero! I have always felt that way. You remind me of Captain Moroni:

Yea, verily, verily I say unto you, if all men had been, and were, and ever would be, like unto ^aMoroni, [you] behold, the very powers of hell would have been shaken forever; yea, the ^bdevil would never have power over the hearts of the children of men. (The Book of Mormon Another Testament of Jesus Christ , Alma 48:17

I cannot write "even the hundredth part" of how I feel about you--but I pray you will understand what I am really trying to say as I express only a few of my feelings toward you:

I know you are a spiritual giant who has an unwavering testimony of Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ because you live your life like the stories you told me about my Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ and how they live.
I know you love Mom because I see you unselfishly work to find ways to love and cherish her and put her second, only after God, in your priority list.
I know you love me because of how many hours you laughed with me and listened to me repeat the same things over and over again until I could feel I had finally figured out what I was really trying to say . . . and for many, many, many other reasons
I know you are unselfish because you spent hours sitting in the hallway where I could see you to help me feel better when I was scared at night.
I know you continue to protect me by your example, counsel and wisdom as you guide me with courage through the "enemy territory," we live in where we are not always appreciated for who we truly are.
I know you are wise because you live with an eternal perspective, which I constantly strive to emulate.
I know better how to love and respect my husband (who is another "Captain Moroni" to me) and encourage my daughters to look to him, because my life with you taught me how important the roles of husband and father really are.

I suspect you may sometimes feel that you haven't done all you wanted to do for me, but I tell you now that you are my Captain Moroni. You are the perfect Father for me and I know that because you were chosen for me by my Father in Heaven. If you ever feel that you haven't won a battle, always remember that in the end, you will win the war. That is what you have always taught me to think of myself. My greatest goal is to live the way you taught me to live.

I love you so much Daddy! I will always be,

P S This talk from last General Conference describes what you have done for me: "Love Her Mother" by Elaine S. Dalton

Family Friendly: Fabulous Friday the 13th

2012-01-13T09:15:00.000-07:00

Why I Didn’tBlog Yesterday?

I even had my ThankfullyThinking thought written and saved ready to post yesterday. Why didn’t I simply post it? Because of a most wondrous day of doingsimple things with my beautiful girls, that’s why! A few times I felt the pull of the deceptiveassertion: “just do something for yourself,” but thankfully the bungee cordwrapping my heart and pulling it toward my family was so much stronger. Thatcord connected me to the truth that the only real way to do something formyself is to serve God—in whatever capacity he desires me to serve.

King Benjamin statedone of my favorite scriptures, which my parents helped me to memorize when Iwas just three years old. Its messagehas been engraved into my soul and I hope it continues to be etched even deepereach day I live: “ Andbehold, I tell you these things that ye may learn ^awisdom; that ye may learn that when ye are in the ^bservice of your ^cfellowbeings ye are only in the service of your God. (The Book of Mormon AnotherTestament of Jesus Christ, Mosiah 2:17)

Willingly Waiting: My Lessons from Three Miscarriages

2012-01-11T11:47:00.000-07:00

My strong desire to have children has never been completelyvanquished even though sometimes seemingly endless obstacles assail me as Iwork toward becoming a wise mom. Ittook a while, and many tears, before I was blessed with my first daughter. I was so thankful that my waiting had endedand enjoyed being a mother so much.

I soon realized thatmy waiting had only begun. It was sevenyears of hoping before I finally found out I was expecting my secondchild. Only a few days later, I foundout I was going to miscarry. I wonderedwhy I would finally be allowed to carry a child only to let it go so soon. My daughter had prayed so often for a littlesister. My husband and I had prayedcountless times. However, I tried tomake sure that my prayers always included the words “according to thywill.”

I knew I faced a critical decision after thatmiscarriage: Do I become discouraged anddisheartened? Or do I decide to bethankful for even that brief time of the joy of carrying a new life withinme. I had enough experience withdisappointment. I wanted to be grateful. Another miscarriage followed and I againchose to be thankful for the miracle of pregnancy no matter what happened.

I was traveling in Guatemala a few months later when I foundout that I was expecting again. I knewthere was a high chance I would miscarry early (I have Graves disease whichoften is related to high thyroid levels and can make it difficult to keep a pregnancy),but the happiness I felt in becoming pregnant for a third time in one yearafter enduring seven years of unfruitful hopes, was stronger than my fear. I decided to climb the ruins and experiencethe other things on my vacation and focus on enjoying the journey whicheverdirection it took me. I was blessed with another beautiful baby girl.

It has been almost two years since I had my seconddaughter. I was thrilled to discoverthat I was not required to wait seven years this time. Then the miscarriage started the nextday. Once again I am doing my best towillingly wait on the Lord’s will for me. I have decided that being willing is more important than beingsuccessful . I know my Heavenly Fatheraccepts my desires and my best efforts even when they don’t seem to bear muchfruit. I am so thankful for His lessonsin patience.

Nana, I Love You the Yellowest

2012-01-10T18:56:00.002-07:00

I am thrilled today to discover that our daughter advanced to the publishing level of the poetry contest she entered last year. She wrote this poem about my own special Supermom and I agree with these shining words! Here is her winning entry:

I Love You the Yellowest

Nana, I love you the Yellowest.

I love you the color

of the bright yellow moon

filling the sea black sky of wonders.

I love you the shade of a light yellow daisy in a

garden of bright green grass

and sweet flowers.

I love you like the yellow, golden,

shimmering sunshine at daylight.

You are a sweet yellow star that I wish upon at night.

Nana, I love you the Yellowest.

If you are interested in your child having a chance to enter a poetry or essay contest and have a chance to be published contact Creative Communication.

I love you my Golden Joyful Canary

January Joy

2012-01-10T07:15:00.011-07:00

My 2012 Resolution is to find more ways to experience joy in my life.

In January I want to focus on finding more ways to bring music into my family.
Will you join me? Let's make more music with every moment. I would love to see comments regarding how music helps you see the joy in your life.

Truly Tender

2012-01-10T04:36:00.008-07:00

I love the talk “The Tender Mercies of the Lord” from the April 2005 General Conference by David A Bednar (of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints). Since I heard that talk, I have thought of many seemingly coincidental occurrences differently. I now see them as the prophet Nephi from “the Book of Mormon” saw them: “But behold, I, Nephi, will show unto you that the tender mercies of the Lord are over all those whom he hath chosen, because of their faith, to make them mighty even unto the power of deliverance”
(1 Ne. 1:20).

I know that God is our Heavenly Father and we literally are his children and He loves us so much. He blesses us constantly with whatever we need if we just trust Him and ask Him. Even if we do not pray or ask, He blesses us all with sunshine, rain, oxygen, beauty surrounding us and so many other things. Best of all, He blessed all of us by sending His son, Jesus Christ, to save every one of us. I am so thankful for that truly tender mercy.

Simply Undone: Blogging

2012-01-10T04:15:00.006-07:00

Obviously, for the past few months my blogging has been continually in the "Simply Undone" category of my life. I have had lots of fun ideas and things I would love to share but never seemed to have a good time to do it. Well, I am thankful for all the loving family time I have had doing other things and hope that my blog can now be more a part of my creative creations.

Simply Scrumptious Full Protein Zuchini and Beet Bread

2011-07-09T12:17:00.012-06:00

I just discovered a very yummy and healthy way to add more beans and brown rice to my family's diet! I just used a recipe for zuchini bread ( I used one from "Our Best Bites by Sara Wells and Kate Jones) and then altered the recipe:

1) Instead of white flour, I used 1/2 cup ground white northern bean flour (I have my own grinder I used and just ground up a bag of the dried beans) and for the rest of the called for amount of flour I substituted brown rice flour (also just a regular bag of brown rice ground up in my electric grinder.

2) I used 1/3 cup of blended beet purree (I cooked the beets in the microwave and then cut them and blended them in the blender with a little water) as part of the amount of zuchinni.

I also used all white sugar since I didn't have brown sugar to add as the recipe called for.

My family all loved this bread and because it is made from the brown rice and bean flour, it is also a complete protein bread. Not to mention the beets and zuchini. A great snack to give to my toddler and feel good about.

Note: I got the idea to use vegetable puree from Jessica Seinfeld's "Deceptively Delicious" cookbook. Check it out for some great recipes for using other veggies in a fun way.

I'm Glad "Sunday will Come"

2011-04-23T12:53:00.012-06:00

This talk was inspiring to me when it was given, and still inspires me as I remember the phrase "Sunday will come" when I am having very hard "Friday's" in my life. I know that the Savior would want me to remember that even though my Fridays are not as hard for me as that horrible Friday when he died for all of us, I can overcome my own littler Friday's because he overcame all things for me. And only three days later, Easter Sunday came with all of the rejoicing and miracles. I know Sunday will also come for me because it first came for Jesus Christ, my Savior.

Simply Scrumptious: Homemade Taco Seasoning Packet

2011-03-04T13:47:00.004-07:00

I searched for a great homemade taco seasoning recipe and found a simple one:

-1 1/2 teaspoons paprika
-1 teaspoon chilli powder
-1/2 teaspoon oregano
-1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Note: The original recipe can be found here. My version uses no salt, otherwise it is the same. I love that this version has only four ingredients.

Simply a Supermom: Anyone who Continues in Patience

2010-10-12T11:40:00.004-06:00

I loved this video version of one of my favorite stories from General Conference last April. This story about children and marshallows really has helped me as I have faced challenges that tempt me to be impatient. I admire and applaud anyone who has that marvelous gift of patience and all who continue to exercize patience in trying to aquire patience (as I do) :) Enjoy!
Continue in Patience

Simply A Supermom: Julie B. Beck, General Relief Society President

2010-08-12T09:50:00.002-06:00

Julie B. Beck is one of my hereos. I just listened to a wonderful episode of Conversations from the Mormon Channel where Sherri Dew, another one of my heroes, interviewed Sister Beck and her two daughters. Some of the most inspiring advice I learned from Sister Beck in this interview were:

1) When your priorities are out of order you lose power. The power you need daily in your life is the power of the Holy Ghost. When you do the most important, necessary things daily like prayer and scripture study, then you will have the power you need to know what to do in every situation of your life.

2) "Unwrap" your children by learning who they are and parent them when they are young in a way that will help them to become a friend you want to be with when they are older.

3) "Unwrap" yourself by discovering who you are as you serve in Relief Society.

4) She learned this thought from a sister she visited in another country: "When life gets really tough, go sing with all your heart." (I really liked this thought because that is what I do when I am having a hard time in my own life. If I take a break to sing, or to play the piano, then I am soon alright enough to keep going).

Another talk Julie B. Beck gave which is really inspiring to me is found here.

"Teaching, No Greater Call"

2010-07-09T15:05:00.005-06:00

I finished "A Parent's Guide" which is a wonderful resource about how to appropriately and adequately discuss sexual intimacy with children. It does well in helping parents understand how much and when to talk to their children on this important topic as well as to help them understand other levels of intimacy with family and friends and what is healthy and what is not.

My new Thursday study book for my personal scripture study time is "Teaching, No Greater Call" I have been enjoying it. It helps me not only with teaching classes at church, but with daily interactions with others and simple teaching moments at home. It is so nice to be able to read a chapter for just a few minutes on Thursdays and know that another goal ( to read this book as church leaders have asked us to do ) is being accomplished a simple step at a time.

Motherhood: An Eternal Partnership with God

2010-07-09T14:51:00.000-06:00

This video is wonderful. It made me cry and helped me to remember how important just doing the simple Mom things to take care of my family, and others around me, really is. Be uplifted:
Motherhood: An Eternal Partnership with God

Fun Summer Reading Programs for Kids

2010-06-11T16:32:00.004-06:00

I just found out about two summer reading programs I thought I would share.

Book Adventure is a free online program where kids can find quzzes on many books they have read and earn points for prizes as they pass the quizzes. My daughter and I did several quizzes together today. Two of her favorite series right now are the Magic Treehouse series by Mary Pope Osborne and the A to Z Mysteries by Ron Roy. There were many available quizzes for both of those series.

Also, Barnes and Noble has a reading program. You simply go to the website and download and print the form to fill out. After reading eight books you bring the completed form in to Barnes and Noble and can recieve a free book from a list of books.

Simply Undone: Morning Walk

2010-06-03T18:39:00.004-06:00

I missed my morning walk with the family today. I know it is an important thing to do, but decided to do another important thing today: go to the temple with my husband. (Photo used by permission from Reb Sumner Photos. Check out her other beautiful landscape and temple pictures).

Simply Scrumptious: "Roasted Root Vegetables"

2010-06-03T18:22:00.006-06:00

I found a recipe using beets that said "Beets were my sworn enemy until I tried them like this" and since I don't like beets either, I tried them this way and really liked them! Click here for the recipe. (I served it with a vietnamese style chicken, carrots and cabbage served over thin spaghetti pasta).

Simply Scrumptious: Beet Greens . . .Yes, Really!

2010-06-03T15:43:00.004-06:00

We have a community garden where we live and my hubby and daughter brought home some yummy veggies a couple of days ago. But they also brought back some beets and beet greens. I don't like beets! But I was determined to find a way to use them. I found this recipe online and--yes really--the greens were really good! Now I just need to figure out how to like the beets. (I served them with some banana squash and some rice balls from the cookbook "Deceptively Delicious" by Jessica Seinfeld)

Deals to Meals

2010-05-25T15:20:00.002-06:00

I mentioned this wonderful website before, but mention it again now since they are offering a free Bosch mixer to one winner who visits their blog and enters the contest. This website offers a great service: they check the grocery store ads for you each week and let you know what the best deals are and where to find them. They even let you know if it is simply better to go to Costco or Walmart or if there are better deals somewhere else. They offer a two week free trial and after that it is only under $5 each month for the service. I promise it saves you more than the $1.25 per week that you pay. The blogs offer contests and tips. Check it out!

Simply Undone: Elementary School Play

2010-05-19T10:21:00.006-06:00

My daughter had two things scheduled on the same night (it is starting already in the second grade). My husband said to give her the choice of which to do. When she chose her Faith in God Activity, I was tempted to encourage her to choose the school play she had worked so hard on. But these thoughts came into my mind: "Which is truly more important. What will happen in her future if you discourage her in her own choices? What are you teaching her by encouraging her to choose school over church activities?" Needless to say, I did not encourage her to change her mind. I supported her in her decision and within my heart, I thanked God for a little daughter who is a good example and for the inspiration which came to help me as I strive to be a good Mom.

Simply Scrumptious: Crock-pot Baked Potatoes

2010-05-18T14:11:00.002-06:00

I like to keep oven use to a minimum during the Summer so I tried an experiment: Cook baked potatoes in the crock-pot. It was really easy and the potatoes were better than those baked in the microwave. I simply washed the potatoes and pierced each one with a fork. Then I layered them in the Crock-pot and poured in one cup of water and cooked the potatoes on low. I did notice that I needed to put in more water about halfway through cooking time so next time I will add more water at the beginning. Easy.

Simply a Supermom: Rachel

2010-05-18T09:16:00.002-06:00

Dear Friends and Family,
I just love Sundays! Not only because of the mad scramble to get to church in one piece 20 minutes late while trying to remain cheerful so your children like church. It's not only the cheerios dumped on your lap, or the diaper change needed right after you sit down. It's not just the wonderful messages about how mothers are wonderful, and how being a parent is the best job in the whole world. It's not only the opportunity to feel like a family when your child is screaming "Mommy, Mommy!" in Nursery, and you can just leave them in the capable hands of the nursery leaders. And it's not just because your son is the one that requires one of the Primary Presidency members to sit next to him at all times so he doesn't kick the seat of his brother in front of him.
No, I like Sundays because of the warm fuzzy feelings I have of serving.

And it's not just because of the exercise I get doing jumping jacks for singing time. It's because of the sustaining power of the spirit to know that if you're trying to be like Jesus, you're in the right place, and that Jesus has given us the commandment to be perfect. That gives me great hope. If he commands me to do something, then I can do it. That means, someday, some how, I will be perfect! I'm sure it will not be until after I'm resurrected, but I'm not giving up yet! I'm going to try, try, try to be like Jesus until the moon falls down. Then, after that I'm sure it will be easier.
So, although Supermomhood may seem so far away, I'm going to keep trying as all these feelings of missing my old ward, chaos in my home, panic to paint before the carpet comes, and keep everybody happy and safe at the same time come crashing down, I'm going to cling brightly to hope. I have hope in eternal life. Not as a last resort without my faith, but it is because of my faith that I have hope, that someday I will be perfect.
In the meantime, I will just enjoy being me, and as David does when he misses the ball, I will laugh at my imperfections because they are an opportunity to grow.
This week we have attempted to paint with all three boys. It's a good thing we're replacing the carpet. David stuck his whole hand in the paint, and said, "Hand? Hand?"
Happy Parenthood, in whatever capacity you may be doing it- mothering a friend, a mother or your own children. It's all worth it.
Love,
Rachel

Simply Scrumptious: Fun Sandwich For Kid's Lunches

2010-05-18T08:06:00.006-06:00

It is fun to add a little surprise to my daughter's sandwiches by using a cookie cutter to press a shape into her sandwich. I noticed when I actually cut out the shape it wastes a lot of the sandwich but this way there is the fun without the waste.

Simply Undone: Dishes

2010-05-17T15:51:00.006-06:00

Today I left the dishes undone and what did I do instead? I took a three hour nap with my 7 wk old baby girl cuddled up on my chest. Now really . . .which was more important?

Stephanie Nielson: A Real Life Supermom. "My New Life"

2010-05-17T09:54:00.001-06:00

What is a Real Supermom?

2010-05-17T08:47:00.003-06:00

The Supermom I believe in is any woman or girl who simply loves and nurtures whoever is around her and has the wisdom to know which things to leave undone.

These are two of my favorite talks which help me to learn to be a better Supermom.
Julie B Beck
President Dieter F. Uchtdorff

Simply Hair: Braided Crown Ponytail

2010-04-21T16:35:00.005-06:00

For this easy style I simply part the hair at the top (center or to a side) and start braiding the right side with what I call a princess braid ( french braid where you only pull new hair into the outside and do a regular braid at the inside). Braid halfway around the head and secure the braid with a rubber band. Then do the same thing on the left side. Now you combine the two ponytails into one and either secure it and leave it as a ponytail or braid it and secure it at the bottom.

Simply Hair: Pull Through Messy Bun with Wrap-Around

2010-02-25T15:32:00.007-07:00

This one sure was fun and easy to do. It only takes one rubber hairband and a few bobby pins . . . and long hair of course.

1) Part the front section of hair to the side and keep it separate.

Then put the rest of the hair in a high ponytail and on the last wrap of the rubber band, pull the hair only half-way through.

2) Take the reserved front section of hair and wrap smoothly to the side and secure it in place with a bobby pin and then continue back over the head and around under the rubber band holding the ponytail in place. If the hair is long enough wrap it around several times. Secure the wrapped hair underneath with bobby pins.

Simply Scrumptious: Easy Bacon Wrapped Chicken and Creamy Sauce

2010-02-25T15:20:00.005-07:00

I got this recipe from my sister, who got it from a good friend of hers. This one is REALLY good.

5 boneless skinless chicken breasts
1 pint of sour cream
1 small can of cream of chicken soup
1 package of bacon

1)Preheat oven at 300 degrees.
2)Wrap the chicken in bacon and set it in a 9x13" casserole dish. (Note: I cut each piece of chicken in half first for more manageable portion sizes)
3) Combine the soup and sour cream and spread on top of the chicken.
4) Cover the pan with foil and bake at 300 degrees for 3 hours or until the chicken is at least 165 degrees inside using a meat thermometer.
5) Remove from the oven and serve the chicken over rice or pasta and spoon some of the extra sauce on top (I forgot to take a picture of this best step. Sorry! It was really good!)

February 2010 Goal

2010-02-18T12:18:00.006-07:00

So Glad to be back after a computer crash!

This month I was reading a conference talk by President Dieter F. Uchtdorf from last General Conference in October 2009. It is entitled "The love of God." He said that often, "One person's good idea--something that may work for him or her--takes root and becomes an expectation. And gradually, eternal principles can get lost within the labrynth of 'good ideas.' . . . So how do we stay aligned with these weightier matters? Is there a constant compass that can help us prioritize our lives, thoughts, and actions? Once again the Lord revealed the way . . . 'Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul and with all thy mind, this is the first and great commandment.' ( ) coupled with the second great commandment--to 'love our neighbor as ourselves' ( )-- we have a compass that provides direction . . .[

He continues, "[Love] ought to be the center of all. . . we do . . . love is the healing balm that repairs rifts in personal and family relationships. It is the bond that unites families . . . Love is the power that initiates friendship, tolerance, civility and respect. It is the source that overcomes divisiveness and hate. Love is the fire that warms our lives with unparalleled joy and divine hope. Love should be our walk and our talk. When we truly understand what it means to love as Jesus Christ loves us, the confusion clears and our priorities align." (emphasis added)

So this talk inspired me to use this month to A)study more about what true love really is, B) compare that ideal with the way I personally show love to others and C) choose at least two simple improvements I can make in the way I show love.

Note:
-For the full text of President Uchtdorf's talk click here. To listen to his talk click here.(This brings up a page with options for this and many other talks to watch, read or listen)
-Another great talk on love that I studied this month is "Love and Law" by Elder Dallin H. Oaks ( Also from General Conference October 2010)

Simply Scrumptious: My Family Loved this Rice Pudding Recipe.

2010-01-20T18:16:00.010-07:00

I have tried a few different rice pudding recipes since my husband loves it so much. (I admit that I don't like it.) Usually he has eaten it but not loved it. This time . . . success!! He loved it and even my daughter liked it. It is made with leftover rice (or cook it ahead of time). If you like rice pudding, I highly recommend it.
For the recipe click here.

Want to help those in Haiti?

2010-01-16T17:34:00.004-07:00

My family has spent more time than usual in front of the TV watching the news of the earthquake victims in Haiti. There are several options for donating money which has been given on those news stations. I also wanted to suggest that The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints is also sending many resources over to help and is an excellent, trustworthy source where individuals can donate money to help in that cause. Follow the link here.

To see articles about how the Church has been aiding those in Haiti, see here and here.

"Good, Better, and Best" New Year's Goals

2010-01-16T17:09:00.007-07:00

During our holiday vacation, Dad gave a great talk at church about how we should carefully pray and then evaluate our options when choosing our New Year's Goals. He used Elder Dallin H. Oaks talk from October 2007 "Good, Better and Best" when counselling that not all goals are of the same importance. Some are good, some are better and some are best. He encouraged us to prayerfully choose the best goals for each of us as individuals. He also wisely suggested that sometimes it is easy to know what the best goal is for a particular year; but other years it may take a few months before you know what your goal for that year really should be.

Later we had a similar discussion together for our Family Home Evening. I really appreciated that insight and have been thinking more deeply about my goals:)

Thanks Dad

Simply Hair: Winter Snowflake Styles

2009-12-23T21:30:00.007-07:00

We have been having lots of fun with crocheted snowflakes in my daughter's hairstyles. They are easy to add: simply use some bobby pins to secure them into the hair.

2009 First Presidency Christmas Devotional

2009-12-15T13:16:00.005-07:00

One of my favorite ideas from the First Presidency Christmas Devotional this year was from President Dieter F. Uchtdorf. He encouraged me to unclutter my life a little more so I have room to "see with [my] heart". I loved that simple encouragement to help me as I make decisions for the holidays.

Fun Christmas Nativity Craft

2009-12-15T13:09:00.006-07:00

My daughter planned a very fun Family Home Evening Activity. She got the idea from the December 2008 Friend. Such a cute mini nativity scene made from a laundry detergent scoop.

Simply Scrumptious: Fun-Shaped Daddy Pancakes

2009-12-11T16:34:00.008-07:00

I love when my hubby makes breakfast. He surprised me one morning with pancakes shaped like the different fish in our fish tank ( we have a large salt-water tank because we love fish so much:), and another plate with christmas shaped pancakes too. How fun!

Simply Scrumptious: Fruit and Veggie Poppy Seed salad

2009-12-11T16:29:00.006-07:00

This salad was really good. My daughter loves to help make it since she likes the chopper:) I simply cleaned out the fridge by adding cucumber, carrots, apples and grapes. Then combining them with a little poppy seed dressing and some sliced almonds.

Quelling Quenchers: Pumpkin Banana Shake

2009-12-11T16:24:00.009-07:00

This year I found out that pumpkin ice cream is pretty good:) Since I am not a fan of pumpkin pie, that is a surprise. To make a shake, I used some egg nog, pumpkin ice cream and a couple of bananas and mixed them together in a blender. Frozen bananas make a thicker shake. It was really good!!

Simply Hair: Mom Style: Fancy Braided Updo with optional Headband

2009-12-04T14:54:00.007-07:00

I believe it is really important to use a little time to take care of yourself, preferably before taking care of all those you take care of every day. This looks so fancy but only added about10 minutes to my normal 15 minute hair and make-up personal pamper time.

This is a mid-back length or longer hairstyle. Here is how I did it:

1) (you can leave this part out if you are not doing the front part of the style with the head band or ribbon) separate out the front part of your hair (I use my long bangs) and put it into a clip or rubber band.

2) A) Starting FROM THE BOTTOM (If you start from the top, you will see the part lines all over your head) separate the rest of your hair into three ponytails right on top of each other. To do this, first separate out a lower section and put the rest of the hair (besided the front part already separated out in step 1) up in a clip or rubber band. B)Then use a small rubber band ( the goody black or clear ones work best) and put it into a ponytail at the nape of your neck. C) Then separate about half of the "clipped up hair" from underneath and make it into a ponytail just above the first one--about halfway up the back of your head. D) Finally put the rest into a ponytail at the highest point where you would like your fancy braid updo to begin on your head.

3) A) Separate the top ponytail into two sections (or more if you like especially if you have thick hair) and braid one of the sections all the way down. Then coil it around the rubber band like a bun--or however you would like to coil it--around the top section of your head and secure with several bobby pins. then do the same with the second section of the top ponytail. B) I usually just do one braid with the second ponytail and coil it around and secure it with bobby pins. C) with the last ponytail, I like to remove the rubber band first, then braid it tightly and coil it up and around and secure it with bobby pins. D) Check the style and adjust where you want to and add more bobby pins until it feels secure on your head.

4) (skip this part if you are not doing the headband and braids in the front) A) Tie a ribbon around your head above the ponytails and tie underneath the lowest ponytail at the nape of your neck. (Or you can use a head band). B) Separate the front section of hair (step 1) into three sections and braid the right section (If you braid toward the front it will probably bunch up so braid it in the direction you are going--toward the back over the headband). pull it flat over the headband and secure it underneath the ribbon or headband with a bobby pin. C) do the same with the middle section and then the left section. D) then take each of those three braids and coil them in with the braids already coiled up on the back of your head. E) check that the style still looks good and is all secure with the bobby pins.

5) You can finish off with hair spray or little dabs of mousse where needed.

I got this idea by combining things I had seen online. The hair wrap over the headband is an idea I got from Babes in Hairland, Dressed up Headband Day 1 and the three ponytail updo was another idea she had which she found from this video I combined these ideas and used braids.

Veggie Vibes: Carrot Shaped Carrot Cake

2009-12-03T17:05:00.008-07:00

My husband wanted a carrot cake for his birthday and my daughter had a great idea: Make it carrot shaped! We used a homemade carrot cake and frosting recipe and it was so yummy! We simply made a 9x13 pan and then after it cooled for 10 minutes, we removed the cake and let it cool completely. Then transferred it onto a cookie sheet and cut out the main carrot shape and then used the leftover parts for the carrot leaves. Then decorated with orange and green frosting. Yum!

Great Kids Book: Alice in Bible land Series.

2009-12-02T11:28:00.003-07:00

I love the "Alice in Bibleland Series" by Alice Joyce Davidson. My Mom got these books for our family growing up and I loved them so much that I got them for my family too. My daughter LOVES them! They have been a great way to introduce scripture stories. They are about a "little girl named Alice" who goes through a "magic Screen" and sees the Bible stories come to life. The stories are told in poetry form, easy to memorize, and have lots of beautiful pictures. One of our favorites is "The Story Of Baby Jesus"

"Pink Glove Dance"

2009-12-02T11:12:00.005-07:00

I have so many fun things I want to post about! Time is getting away from me! But part of being a Super Mom is knowing what things NOT to do. I am glad to have some time to post this one:
I Loved this video! It was so fun to see the employees all dancing together and having such a good time. That would have been such a fun day at work. Check it out and help a good cause.

A friend sent me this and says...
"Our daughter-in-law, Emily (MacInnes) Somers, created, directed and
choreographed this in Portland last week for her Medline glove division
as a fundraiser for breast cancer awareness. This was all her idea to
help promote their new pink gloves. I don't know how she got so many
employees, doctors and patients to participate, but it started to really
catch on and they all had a lot of fun doing it.

When the video gets 1 million hits, Medline will be making a huge
contribution to the hospital, as well as offering free mammograms for
the community. Please check it out. It's an easy and great way to
donate to a wonderful cause, and who hasn't been touched by breast
cancer?"

Check it out Here and help the cause.

Sale on Book of Mormon Little Books

2009-11-11T10:25:00.005-07:00

I previously posted about this wonderful set of early reader Book of Mormon books on my blog. So for the full description of why I love these books, click here. to summarize, I loved them because my daughter was able to use them to learn to read in the correct sequence very easily simply by reading these leveled scripture story books in order.

There is a great sale on these books that I just found out about and wanted to share. I received notice that the author is discounting the series as well as some of her other items if you order before December 31st, 2009. She is also offering free shipping. These are wonderful for a family and great gifts for pre-k to first grade age children. For more information or to order these books go here.

My Daughter's Thanksgiving Decorations

2009-11-07T13:16:00.007-07:00

I loved it when I saw how my daughter had used my favorite pilgrim decorations in a fun new way. She separated them by what they were holding in their arms and then put that item around it--like the girls were holding apples so she put a real apple by them, pumpkins by the boy holding a pumpkin and dried corn we picked up at the corn maze by the indian holding corn. I usually just lined them all up. It is so fun to walk into my living room and see her creation! I cheers me up and makes me smile:)

Simply Scrumptious: Using the Halloween Pumpkin

2009-11-07T13:04:00.006-07:00

For Family Home Evening, I used my daughter's Jack'0 Lantern to make some cooked pumpkin to use in place of pie filling in a yummy recipe.

1) bring some water to a boil in 1-2 large pots, depending on the size of the pumkin you are cooking.

2) Cut the pumpkin up into several small pieces that can easily fit into the pots and add them into the boiling water.

3) Boil the pumpkin until it is the desired softness. It will cook faster if you cover the pot.

4) Remember to let it cool to a warm temp before using tongs to take the pieces out and peel the skin off of each piece.

5) either smash up or puree in a blender the small pumkin pieces.

Serving suggestions: This is great to use with butter and brown sugar to eat as a side dish. It tastes a lot like butternut squash. Yum! Also great in recipes calling for pumpkin pie filling. Freezes well for later.

We made some yummy and very easy pumpkin cookies with it from a very simple recipe from the Friend.All it took was a spice cake mix, eggs, chocolate chips or raisins and the cooked pumpkin.

Saving money by altering my daughter's dance uniforms

2009-11-07T12:49:00.004-07:00

When I found out that my daughter's school was going to offer free dance lessons I was so excited! The dance uniforms required are two piece black shorts and top that cost about $16 each piece if I got them through the on site vender. I did a little research and from Walmart was able to get a black leotard for $7 and black leggings for $5. I simply cut off the bottom of the leotard and then hemmed it. Next I altered the sleeves to make them the required cap sleeves instead of a little longer short sleeves. Finally, I cut off the leggings to the correct length and simply hemmed them up. I saved about $20 and it only took me about a half an hour of my time to alter them. Plus it was a fun sewing project:)

Simply Scrumptious: Halloween Goo (Split Pea Soup)

2009-10-31T11:44:00.007-06:00

I usually buy a bag of split peas and then follow the recipe on the back of the bag with my own alterations as I feel that day:) This time I did:

1) 2 T oil in bottom of very large pot and then add following ingredients and cook and stir a few minutes (can add a little water to the bottom of the pan to help steam the vegetables if desired):
-3 stalks celery chopped
-3 large carrots chopped
-2 medium potatoes chopped
-1 package of bacon cooked in microwave and cut into pieces
-1 medium chopped onion (or 1/4 cup dehydrated onion)
-4 cloves garlic smashed and peeled

2) next add
-49 oz of chicken broth (can make your own with water and chicken bouillon)
-1 tsp thyme
-the whole bag of split peas (sorted through first to make sure there are no little rocks or anything else that got mixed into them during packaging)

3) bring to a boil and then turn down heat to medium-low and simmer for about 60 minutes frequently stirring and adding a little more water or broth whenever it begins to get low.

4) when peas are soft and mushy, it is finished. You can blend up half of the mixture to make a creamier texture if desired.

Note: This makes a very large pot of soup which can easily be split into freezer containers for later or you can make only half a batch at a time.

serving suggestion: you can make little bat wing shaped pieces of toast and put them on top of each bowl of soup when serving. Also tastes really great with cornbread.

We are the generation to protect the Constitution

2009-10-23T09:40:00.007-06:00

Elder Dallin H. Oaks gave a devotional on October 13, 2009. He gave us great counsel on how each of us can help to protect our freedom. He gave us suggestions of specific things we must do to protect our freedom:
-Speak with love and show patience, understanding and compassion to those with differing viewpoints.

-Do not be deterred or coerced into silence by intimidation from opponents, insisting that churches and their members be able to speak out on issues without retaliation.

-Insist on the freedom to preach the doctrines of their faith.

-Be wise in political participation, remaining respectful of those who do not share their religious beliefs and contributing to reasonable discussion.

-Be careful to never support or act on the idea that a person must subscribe to a specific set of religious beliefs in order to qualify for public office. For highlights of the talk click here.

I finished the "Miracle of Forgiveness"

2009-10-23T09:10:00.012-06:00

I am so happy to have completed my goal to read the "Miracle of Forgiveness" by Spencer W. Kimball. I first started it as a teenager when my seminary teacher Dad suggested it would be a good book to read. I had good intentions :) but never finished it completely--and always felt badly that I hadn't whenever I heard someone mention how good that book is. This year I have been reading it for my scripture study time on Thursdays and it has taken a while to complete but was so worth it. What a great book.

Here is one of my favorite quotes from p. 362 in the last chapter:

There is a glorious miracle awaiting every soul who is
prepared to change. Repentance and forgiveness make a brilliant day of
the darkest night. When souls are reborn, when lives are changed--then
comes the great miracle to beautify and warm and lift. . . And such great miracles will never cease so long as there is one person who applies the redeeming power of the Savior and his own good works to bring about his rebirth.

I am so thankful that I know that Jesus Christ lives. I know that he came to earth to live as the Great Example to guide the way for all of us to follow and to also suffer for our sins, die and then be resurrected. Because he did those things, we can all find peace and direction in our lives and have the option to change and repent and become better people. We will live again after we die. I know that when he suffered for my sins he also experienced my personal sorrows and challenges and all other emotions and experiences I deal with so that he can always know perfectly how I feel and how to help me. I know he loves me and is always there for me. I love him and am so thankful for him.

and "Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Spencer W. Kimball" chapter 4

"Matt and Mandy" helps me teach.

2009-10-13T11:05:00.005-06:00

My daughter LOVES to read the "Matt and Mandy" section of the Friend magazine each month. She also loves to watch "Matt and Mandy" episodes online (click on the link above). One day, when she was facing a problem with some friends from school and trying to decide what she should do about it, we decided to create our own "Matt and Mandy" comic page about a similar situation and figure out what she thought Mandy would choose to do. It really helped her in thinking through how she should solve the problem (and helped me refrain from telling her how to solve it so she could learn to do it herself). I am really thankful for the Friend magazine!

Kids General Conference Booklet

2009-10-02T13:38:00.003-06:00

I am sooo excited for conference tomorrow! We are finishing up our preparations to have treats and games ready to do while we watch. My daughter usually sets up a tent to stay in while she watches and then she plays conference Bingo or does some other activities related to the conference as she watches.
One of my personal favorites is when we made a "matching game" by having one card be a picture of the Speaker (We just did the First Presidency and Apostles) and the other card be a picture of something He talked about. We got that idea from the Friend magazine and it was really fun to make while listening and then to play later. It helped us remember what each Apostle talked about.
This time I printed out the booklet on the Friend website. Then we can use the information from the activities in that booklet to make our matching game.

Save Money on Groceries with Deals To Meals

2009-09-21T20:15:00.005-06:00

My sister let me know about this service. It is a website that searches the adds from several grocery stores near me and color codes the deals for me each month. The red deals are the really good deals. It saves me lots of time and I generally only spend about $150 a month for groceries for a family of three. it is free for a trial period of two weeks and then it is for only a cost of $1.25 per week and is definitely worth the price. The creator of the site also offers a meal plan and shopping list for a full week of menus based on the current red deals and a guide to food storage for your family. check it out at deals to meals.

Fit Day online nutrition and overall health tracker

2009-09-15T12:59:00.004-06:00

There is a free online journal which you can enter in specific nutrition and health goals. Than you can enter the foods you eat and the activities you did and find out how your calorie intake vs out take was for each dayand whether or not you met your personal exercise and nutrition goals or not . It even keeps track so you can see statistics over a long period of time (for days you have entered in information of course). It also has a helpful place where you can track your mood each day which is wonderful for those of us who have tendency toward depression or hormone imbalances and need to be able to let our dr. know if there is a pattern in our hard days. Best of all it is a free service (with more options available for purchase if you like).

check it out at fitday.com

Also for great kid friendly healthy food ideas for picky eaters check out Super Healthy Kids

Cool Whip Fingerpainting!

2009-09-14T12:30:00.007-06:00

I just saw this post on my sister's blog. She used a great idea for a craft that is fun and only takes two supplies: construction paper and cool whip. It is fine if they eat the paint too! :)

Simply Scrumptious: Cheese Soup

2009-09-11T15:10:00.007-06:00

It was so fun to get together with one of my friends to make several freezer meals.
I hadn't had cheese soup in a while so I was especially excited to make this recipe from my friend's family cookbook. This is how we made it:

1) in large (at least 4-quart) pot combine the following ingredients and boil until vegetables are cooked through:
2 quarts water
4 potatoes washed and diced or shredded(peels are fine if you like them)
4 stalks celery diced or shredded
4 carrots sliced or shredded (peels are fine if you like them)
8 chicken bouillon cubes
1 medium diced onion (optional)
a pinch of garlic powder (optional)
3/4 tsp Accent (optional)

2) in separate pan melt 2 cubes of butter and then slowly add 1 and 1/2 cups of flour a little at a time and stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Then add 4 cups of water and cook and stir over medium heat for several minutes (using a wire whisk really helps prevent lumps) until it thickens. Then remove from the heat. (This has created a thick white sauce)

3) When the vegetables are soft, then puree half of them in a blender and pour it out into a bowl. Then puree the rest of the vegetables and return them all to the pan. (Or for chunky soup just skip this step)

4) Cut 16 oz of Velveeta cheese into small squares and add it and the white sauce into the large pot with the puree veggies and cook and stir over medium-low heat until the cheese melts. (other shredded cheeses will work well too but will take longer to melt in than the Velveeta)

5) If Desired, add up to one quart more water to make the soup the consistency you like.

6) If you want to freeze for later, wait for the soup to cool down and then ladle it into the desired size plastic freezer containers.

Yield: 3-4 quarts of really yummy soup.

Tip: If you cut the amount of water in half when you cook the vegetables and don't add the extra water at the end, this soup can make a really good and healthier (because of the puree veggies) cheese sauce for pasta.

Simply Scrumptious: Ice Cream Roll

2009-08-28T16:40:00.013-06:00

My Mom's Recipe:
1) Preheat oven to 425 degrees
2) Beat together 3 eggs and 1/4 tsp salt
3) in separate bowl combine 1/2 cup sugar, 2/3 cups flour and 1 tsp baking soda and then add to the egg mixture.
4) Line a large cookie sheet or jelly roll pan with waxed paper and spread the batter evenly on it (It won't cover the whole sheet)
5) bake at 425 degrees for about 6 minutes or until done (the cake will spring back when touched in the center with your fingertip instead of leaving an indentation)
6) While it is baking, prepare a damp dishtowel laid out on a counter with powdered sugar sprinkled onto it.

7) Remove from the oven and immediately turn in out upside down onto the prepared dishtowel so that the waxed paper is now on top.
8) Carefully remove the waxed paper.

9) While the cake is still hot, spread 1/4 gallon of softened ice cream evenly, leaving about 1/2 inch around each edge. (can also use a 1/2 of a square 1/2 gallon container and cut it into slices and lie them across the cake evenly).
10) Roll the cake up, trim off the ends and wrap in waxed paper covered with powdered sugar. Then freeze for several hours before serving. (wrap in an outside layer of foil if not using the cake within 24 hours)

Enjoy!

Simply Scrumptious: Cranberry Apple Punch

2009-08-24T13:40:00.006-06:00

I love this simple drink:

Combine 1 part Cranberry Apple juice with one part Gingerale. (Sprite or 7-Up work too, but Gingerale is my favorite) It is the best when chilled.

Enjoy!

Simply Scrumptious: Lemon-Paprika Chicken

2009-08-21T17:50:00.009-06:00

1)Use one fresh boneless skinless split chicken breast and cut into two equal pieces.
2)Place each piece on a cutting board and pound flat to about 1/2" even thickness (I place a gallon size ziploc bag on top before I pound out using a rolling pin)
3)Combine 1T olive oil, 1/4 tsp paprika, 1/2 tsp lemon juice and 1/4 tsp garlic powder in a gallon ziploc bag. Place chicken inside and shake to coat. For more flavor, use above amounts for only one piece of chicken and then repeat for the second piece.
4)Grill chicken until cooked through. I use a small George Foreman grill which cooks both sides in minutes.

Note: I read online a while ago(I don't remember what site) that the safe temperature for chicken is over 170 degrees for high-risk people (like children, or elderly or pregnant women). However the chicken will be more tender and juicy if you stop cooking at 165 degrees if you don't have those higher-risk worries.

Daddy Daughter Date: Home Depot Kids Workshop

2009-08-01T17:03:00.007-06:00

I think it is very important to have Daddy Dates. They are an important part of a strong and happy family. My favorite Dates with my Dad were one time when he took me to a dance and gave me a corsage and everything. Another favorite was when he took me to an amusement park just the two of us (There were ten kids so it was really special to have my own time like that)

My hubby discovered the free projects they do at Home Depot. (Here they do it the first Saturday of each month). They are great. They give the kids an apron and each time they do a project they earn a new project pin to put on their apron, a certificate and of course they get to take home a fun free project. The best part is the time with Dad.

Fun Paper Doll Craft

2009-07-30T13:56:00.011-06:00

My daughter has a fun craft idea. Here is how she explains how to do it:

" I was watching 'Beauty and the Beast' and after it I just thought of this craft idea since I was in such a 'Beauty and the Beast' mood. I made a Belle doll. This is how I made it:

1) Draw a picture of you or of anybody and cut it out.

2) Draw dresses and then cut them out.

Make sure they have little tabs to hold it up.

3) Then put one of your favorite dresses on the paper doll.

( And here's a funny joke about paper dolls: Why are paper dolls so fun? Because they're "funnable!" LOL) Now enjoy your paper dolls! Have fun with them! Go along and play!"

Beautiful Blog Award

2009-07-29T08:45:00.017-06:00

Thanks Melissa from Wonder Mom Envy for nominating me for this award! :) I am now pleased to pass on the award to a few fun blogs:

To choose to accept the award, the instructions I received from Melissa are:

"The rules to receiving this award are to: Accept the award, post it on your blog together with the name of the person who has granted the award, and his or her blog link. Pass the award to several other blogs that you’ve newly discovered. Remember to contact the bloggers to let them know they have been chosen for this award."

Simply Scrumptious: Really Easy Homemade Pasta Sauce

2009-07-25T11:53:00.012-06:00

It is great to make your own sauce from fresh tomatoes, but sometimes I just don't have that many tomatoes around to do it with, or the time to cut the tomatoes up and stuff :) I made this simple sauce yesterday for my visiting friends and one suggested I put it on my blog so here it is:

3 cans of canned tomatoes (14 1/2 oz, any variety)
1 small can of condensed tomato soup (optional, this thickens the sauce a little)
1/2- tsp sage and oregano and 1 T minced onion and 1/4 tsp garlic powder (if the tomatoes were unseasoned) or season to taste.

Blend up the canned tomatoes is the blender (1 can at a time if using a small one like I do. I use the Magic Bullet). Put them in a large pot on the stove over medium to high heat. Add the tomato soup and seasonings
You can also add some other cooked and blended veggies. I like to use spinach (cooked and drained well and only use about 1/2 cup or less or the sauce will be very green but still taste yummy), shredded zuchini, other squash varieties cooked . . . endless possibilities:)

This amount served 6 people.

Simply Scrumptious: Easy Stovetop Lasagna Casserole

2009-07-20T16:05:00.007-06:00

-1lb pasta
-1 egg
-1lb cottage cheese
-1lb browned ground beef or leftover cooked pot roast
-2 cans pasta sauce or abut 7-8 cups of homemade sauce
-4 oz (1/2 8oz package) of shredded Mozzerella cheese.
1)Cook 1 lb package of pasta according to package directions. Drain and put back into large pot on the stove. Toss with a little olive oil.
2)Mix the egg into the cottage cheese and add into the pot with the pasta.
3) Add the browned ground beef or leftover pieces of roast.
4) Add 2 large cans of pasta sauce.
5) Heat through.
6)Before serving, sprinkle on the cheese.

Simply Scrumptious: Pasta Sauce From Fresh Tomatoes

2009-07-20T15:57:00.007-06:00

My neighbor offered to let me come and pick tomatoes. It was fun and I made a great sauce out of them:

-about two dozen medium-sized fresh tomatoes washed ans diced
-2 Cups of frozen shredded zuchini (thawed and drained)
-1 small acorn squash (cut in half, steamed in microwave and then scooped out of shell)
1/2 tsp each of garlic powder, basil, oregano, and sage
-1 small can of tomato paste (optional--will help the sauce thicken)

Add all obove ingredients to a large crock pot and cook on high for four hours. Can add in parmesan cheese or browned ground beef.

Simply Scrumptious: White Sauce

2009-07-20T09:38:00.007-06:00

White sauce is a basic for many sauces and soups. When I first started making white sauce,. as a teenager, the book I used for the recipe is the Better Homes and Gardens (the one with the red and white checked cover that many of us grew up with). Now I just know the recipe:

1) Decide how many cups of white sauce you need.
2) For each cup of white sauce needed, use 1T butter and 1T flour. Melt the butter then add the flour and stir together and cook over medium-low heat for 1-2 minutes until it is starting to turn golden brown. Careful not to burn it or your whole sauce will taste burned! Keep stirring it the whole time.
3) Then add one cup of milk for each tablespoon of flour and butter you used. (Use whole milk or cream for a nice creamy sauce, or use whatever milk you have--even reconstituted powdered milk works well but takes a little longer to thicken) Keep cooking and stirring over medium-low heat. (using a wire whisk helps the flour and milk combine easier without lumps). Keep stirring often as you cook or the milk will burn. If you want it to thicken faster you can turn the heat up a little but be careful to keep stirring it until it is the thickness you want.

Tips: After a few minutes if it is not as thick as you want you can mix a little cornstarch into some COLD milk or water and add it in. If it is too thick simply add some more milk.

For ALFREDO SAUCE, add about 1/4 Cup parmesan cheese per cup of white sauce at the end of cooking.
For CHEESE SAUCEadd desired amount of shredded cheddar cheese or cheese whiz or velveeta at the end of cooking and cook and stir until melted.
For use as a CREAM SOUP BASE (instead of using canned cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup) add in 1 teaspoon of chicken, beef or vegetable bouillon per cup of white sauce.

Simply Scrumptious: Tooty-Fruit Salad

2009-07-18T09:05:00.011-06:00

This is another wonderful recipe created by my daughter. Here are her instructions:

1) Slice the strawberries by first slicing in kind-of crescent-shaped pieces.

2)Then take some grapes. Put 'em in the bowl with some strawberries.

3) Then take a whole can of mandarin oranges and pour it in the same bowl with the strawberries and the grapes. (Make sure you get almost all the juice out but leave the mandarin oranges juicy)

4) Then stir it up with a spoon until it is all mixed. Then serve it on the table with breakfast or dessert or anything.

It's very snacky and great to bring on vacation or to the zoo or something._

Early Eats: Cupcake Omelets

2009-07-18T08:51:00.014-06:00

These are so easy and so wonderful! Put some in the freezer in ziplocs and they make great quick breakfasts before school. I got this idea from my Mom. (Hubby's Mom is my Mom now! Not an in-law since she is so wonderful!:D )

1) Preheat oven to 350
2) Beat eggs in bowl. Use 1 egg per cupcake you want to make (example for a dozen cupcake pan full use 12 eggs)
3) Add whatever fixin's you want like cheese, ham, minced onion and bell peppers (if using fresh, the onions and peppers are better cooked in some oil for a few minutes before adding or they might still be a little crunchy in the omelets) . . .
4) Fill greased muffin cups almost full (leave about a 1/4 " at the top for expanding)
5) Bake at 350 for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.

Simply Scrumptious: Make your own onion powder

2009-07-13T16:57:00.006-06:00

I ran out of onion powder and put some dehydrated onion in a blender, with the bread crumb blade, and it made great onion powder! No onion tears today!

Simply Scrumptious: "Tinfoil Dinners" Microwave Style

2009-07-07T16:46:00.008-06:00

1 large potato (sliced thinly or diced 1/4" cubes)

1 lb ground beef

1-2 small zuchini(sliced thin or diced in 1/4" cubes)

minced onion

salt and pepper to taste

Put cut vegetables in glass or other microwavable container. It cooks better if it is covered. (You can use any veggies you want. I just had a big zuchini to use up) and then put tiny pieces of ground beef in. sprinkle on the minced onion and salt and pepper. Put in the microwave for 3-5 minutes at a time checking to see when the beef is cooked through and the veggies are crisp tender. It depends on how your microwave cooks. (If veggies are cut too large, they will take longer to cook and the meat will get overdone)This reminds me of tinfoil dinners but doesn't need a fire or the oven. Good for a summer at-home version of this camping favorite. Is great served with ketchup, or with a white sauce or gravy.

Morning Glory Moment

2009-07-07T16:24:00.010-06:00

My daughter came to me soooo excited. "There is a Morning Glory Mom!!" She repeated over and over again. It was so fun to see her so excited. And no wonder . . . she planted the seeds herself a few weeks ago and just two little tiny shoots have come up. She has not given up on her tiny plants, even when we thought they were dead after a family vacation. This may be the only bloom we see from her efforts, but so worth it. I am glad pictures can make moments last forever.

Simply Scrumptious: Popcorn to corn meal

2009-07-07T15:54:00.009-06:00

Did you know you can grind popcorn in your wheat grinder? It makes great corn meal.

Another tip: I just learned I can use corn meal instead of flour as a thickener in white sauce. Of course, it gives it a little grainier texture and a little yellow coloring. It was perfect for the cheese sauce I made for homemade mac and cheese yesterday. (soon I will post how I make white sauce/ cheese sauce) My husband LOVES Mac and Cheese but my daughter and I both hate the boxed version and only like homemade.

Create a Refined Home #3--Refined Music

2009-07-07T11:03:00.012-06:00

What is refined music? I think that will be different for each person. I do NOT believe that means only classical or church music although those are definitely included. The results of my own home tour of our music is that each family member is different and there are a few things the others listen to that do not seem refined or uplifting to ME but I need to respect their idea of good music (as long as it is not a bad influence that we have agreed as a family we will not have, of course). So my gauge of how we are doing is to make sure that there is plenty of good music available in my home. We do really well at that! We are a really music loving family and there is great variety and a lot available here.

Goal: Remember to turn some good music on every day

Favorite online music links:
WCPE Classical Station
Pandora
LDS Music Website

LDS Radio Online

New Scripture Stories Podcasts

2009-07-06T11:49:00.005-06:00

The Mormon Channel has two new kids scripture Podcasts out! My daughter was so excited since we have been checking every day.

Simply Scrumptious: Birthday Breakfast

2009-07-06T08:24:00.011-06:00

If you love ice cream, then you will love this breakfast treat. It all started when I was little and my family went out to eat at a place (I don't remember where) that had a birthday special. I ordered it and it was a bowl of cereal with a scoop of ice cream in the middle. Surprisingly, it was VERY good! This dish became a special tradition for breakfast on birthdays and now my husband and daughter have been glad to adopt it into our family too. My hubby decided to have some and so I thought It can be holiday breakfast too :) Besides it WAS the country's birthday.

1 half-filled bowl of "plain " cereal (like Cheerios or Corn Flakes)
1 large scoop of ice cream (Mint or Chocolate really flavor the milk well)
Milk
Spoon

Just fill up your cereal bowl, put a scoop of ice cream on and pour the milk over the top. Then grab a spoon and enjoy it!