tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32340081277758242392024-02-19T18:13:43.760-08:00Tomlinson TimesTom and Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01430514364846114695noreply@blogger.comBlogger27125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3234008127775824239.post-31019902423300044242013-10-23T11:05:00.000-07:002013-10-23T11:05:16.075-07:00Here We Grow Again!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqFnmXmxCxJMHN0n6hqmHIXquforRcRnsMBlU1aaDe6H2pdGGZe7l9iR8MrCx_7k46sqhpJW8cfUKoyJXImZ7cNKmC396uX-GPPrgJgOccl4bW9O951rWMbdurMoKNY2werwAXm9Keoqk/s1600/20130809_095808.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqFnmXmxCxJMHN0n6hqmHIXquforRcRnsMBlU1aaDe6H2pdGGZe7l9iR8MrCx_7k46sqhpJW8cfUKoyJXImZ7cNKmC396uX-GPPrgJgOccl4bW9O951rWMbdurMoKNY2werwAXm9Keoqk/s320/20130809_095808.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Perpetually shy Jacob did not want to pose for his adoption picture.</div>
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Back in May of 2011 I posted about our excitement at being able to adopt Emily and Michael at last. I commented on the long 21 month wait and how happy we were to finally have them as our own. Well, we've done it again! On August 9th, 2013, we finalized the adoption of our "baby boy", Jacob Brent. On September 5, 2013, he was sealed to us in the Seattle LDS temple, making him a permanent addition to our eternal family. The day after that, Jacob turned 4 years old. Because of his Native American ancestry, it was a little more difficult to navigate the adoption process, so it was a long 33 month process this time. We feel so grateful that everything worked out at last.<br />
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Our baby Jake came to us at only 16 days old. He was a tiny little jelly bean at only 5 pounds, 2 ounces and born 6 weeks premature. When we took him home from the NICU we fell in love immediately. He grew quickly and before long he was even bigger than his big brother, Michael. He had some health problems his first year (RSV - scary!, low tone - lots of PT, OT, and ST), but now he is a happy and healthy preschooler. He is the most compassionate of all my children. He has a wicked sense of humor and loves to make people smile. He will face challenges in the future, but who of us won't? We'll face them together.<br />
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Congratulations, Jelly Bean! We're so happy to have you in our family at last!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWIpcTeOMoQ_J4Q_jq1aGtuo_1zDaZYkv1Cn9wWxoZt7cYuIXJ2Iwhnw2cv9ZexAdXvl1Yx04uBkU4QwKJOI1m0zTaSfnuVCK6ngRanvUSC01kCnFlz2gKputq-GpIzuLMhC3QyOlu1_U/s1600/20131014_073910.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWIpcTeOMoQ_J4Q_jq1aGtuo_1zDaZYkv1Cn9wWxoZt7cYuIXJ2Iwhnw2cv9ZexAdXvl1Yx04uBkU4QwKJOI1m0zTaSfnuVCK6ngRanvUSC01kCnFlz2gKputq-GpIzuLMhC3QyOlu1_U/s320/20131014_073910.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
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Jacob and Michael ready for preschool!</div>
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<br />Tom and Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01430514364846114695noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3234008127775824239.post-16165564625274842492011-12-22T03:10:00.000-08:002011-12-22T03:10:37.325-08:00As promised - Homemade Mix Recipes<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Why buy it when it's so easy (and healthier) to make it from scratch?</td></tr>
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<b><u>CONDENSED CREAM OF ANYTHING SOUP MIX</u></b></div>
<i>This is my largest mix recipe. If you don't want a gallon of it, I suggest you scale down the recipe!</i><br />
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8 Cups powdered milk<br />
6 Cups corn starch<br />
1-1-2 Cups powdered chicken or vegetable bouillon (or 64 bouillon cubes that have been pulverized - I use my Magic Bullet and it works great)<br />
8 TBSP onion granules<br />
2 tsp dried basil<br />
2 tsp dried thyme<br />
2 tsp garlic powder (not garlic salt!)<br />
3 tsp ground black pepper<br />
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Mix well and store in airtight container. To use: Combine 1/3 Cup mix with 1-1/4 Cups or cold water. Put in pan and whisk while heating until it thickens. Soup will be thick as if it just came out of a can (thus the 'condensed' part of the name). At this point, just use it as you would use a can of condensed soup. You can also add ingredients to make flavored soups. The first time I made this, I sauteed some celery and added it to the soup with some milk and it was delicious cream of celery soup. Other times I have added mushrooms, chicken, or nothing if I was just using it in "Special Chicken". Some people call it "crock pot chicken", let me know if you want the recipe. It's my kids' favorite meal, and it's super easy to make!<br />
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<i>Time saving tip</i>: I write the name of the mix along with the usage directions right on the jar - either on the lid or on a label on the side. Yes, masking tape <i>does</i> make a pretty good label!<br />
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<b><u>TACO SEASONING</u></b></div>
4 TBSP chili powder<br />
4 TBSP paprika<br />
2 TBSP ground cumin<br />
2 TBSP coarse sea salt<br />
1 TBSP ground black pepper<br />
1 tsp garlic powder<br />
1 tsp granulated onion<br />
1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (this is for mild taco seasoning, add more if you like it HOT)<br />
1/2 tsp dried oregano<br />
1/2 tsp granulated sugar<br />
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Mix well (I whirl it in my Magic Bullet) and store in airtight container. To use: Add 2 TBSP plus 1/2 Cup water per pound of cooked meat and simmer until water evaporates.<br />
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<i>Money saving tip</i>: To stretch ground beef, turkey, etc. - Reconstitute 1/2 Cup TVP in hot beef or chicken broth and add it to the meat. Just make sure to add a little more taco seasoning, too. I have been doing this for years in tacos and spaghetti, and my kids don't even know!<br />
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<b><u>ZESTY ITALIAN DRESSING MIX</u></b></div>
5 TBSP garlic powder<br />
5 TBSP granulated onion<br />
5 TBSP granulated sugar<br />
5 TBSP dried parsley<br />
3-1/2 TBSP coarse sea salt<br />
3 TBSP dried oregano<br />
5 tsp lemon pepper<br />
5 tsp dried basil<br />
1-1/4 tsp dried thyme<br />
1 tsp celery SALT<br />
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Mix well and store in airtight container. To use in recipes: 2 TBSP equals 1 packet of store bought mix. To make zesty Italian dressing: Combine 2 TBSP mix with 1/4 Cup vinegar, 2/3 Cup vegetable oil, and 2 TBSP water. Shake well.<br />
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<b><u>RANCH DRESSING MIX</u></b></div>
<i>This is my smallest mix recipe. I find that it works better to make this in individual batches, so I either make it as-needed, or I make up several batches, each in their own small zipper baggie. If you like the old "Uncle Dan's Southern" mix, you will like this.</i><br />
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1 TBSP dried parsley<br />
1 tsp dried minced onion<br />
1/2 tsp salt<br />
1/2 tsp MSG<br />
1/8 tsp garlic powder<br />
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To use as dressing: Add mix to 1 Cup mayonnaise and 1 Cup milk or buttermilk. Mix well.<br />
To use as dip: Add mix to 1 Cup mayonnaise and 1 Cup sour cream. Mix well.<br />
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<b><u>COUNTRY GRAVY MIX</u></b></div>
5 Cups all purpose flour<br />
2 Cups powdered milk<br />
1/2 Cup cornstarch<br />
13 pulverized chicken bouillon cubes<br />
1-1/2 tsp poultry seasoning<br />
1 tsp cracked black pepper<br />
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Mix well and store in airtight container. To use: Combine 1/3 Cup mix with 2 Cups milk or cold water. Put in pan and whisk while heating until it thickens. This is good on mashed potatoes (and chicken fried steak - yum!) or add cooked sausage and serve this over biscuits (also yum!).<br />
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<b><u>WHITE SAUCE BASE MIX</u></b></div>
<i>This is basically the same as my country gravy mix, but without the spices. Use it in place of a roux when starting a white sauce. I love it for bechamel, cheese sauce (think: macaroni and cheese), and Alfredo sauce, especially.</i><br />
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5 Cups all purpose flour<br />
2 Cups powdered milk<br />
1/2 Cup cornstarch<br />
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Mix well and store in airtight container. To use: Combine 1/3 Cup mix with 2 Cups milk or cold water. Put in pan and whisk while heating until it thickens. Add salt, pepper, and other spices to taste.<br />
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<u><b>BISCUIT MIX</b></u></div>
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7.5 Cups all purpose flour</div>
3/4 Cup vegetable shortening<br />
1/4 Cup baking powder<br />
2 tsp salt<br />
2 tsp granulated sugar<br />
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Combine all ingredients until shortening is completely incorporated. You can use a pastry cutter, but I find that it's faster and easier to just use clean hands (take off your jewelry first!). You'll know you're done when you can't feel any shortening and the mixture holds together when you squeeze it into a ball. Store in airtight container. To use: use in place of store bought biscuit mix (ie: Bisquick) in any recipe.<br />
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I have more recipes, but they are on my old computer. If you want them, let me know and I'll pull 'em up and do another post.<br />
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Enjoy!<br />
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<br />Tom and Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01430514364846114695noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3234008127775824239.post-79360870557467763692011-12-22T00:50:00.000-08:002011-12-22T00:50:28.451-08:00What I've been up to lately - Saving Money!<br />I have a blog. I do not update my blog very often. Why not? I guess it's because I live a modest life and don't think people would be interested in reading about my day to day activities. Once in a while something big will happen and I'll think "I should blog about that". Then, if I happen to have some kid-free time to blog while Tom is taking a rare break from playing Words With Friends, viola! A new blog post is born. This is one of those times.<div>
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This post is about money, or the lack thereof, and how I have dealt with this challenge in the area of feeding my large-ish family.</div>
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First: Where has all the money gone? It's not just that the price of food has been steadily rising while package sizes have been shrinking. There have been extra considerations in our house this year. For instance, we put Em in full-day Kindergarten this year. She is doing great and loving it, but it's been hard on the budget. Between yet-another-pay-cut from Tom's job and Em's almost $300.00 per month tuition, well, did I mention it's been hard on the budget?</div>
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Second: I am a stay at home mom. I do not want to be a working mom (been there, done that!), and luckily at this time I do not have to work. I am grateful for that and I don't want you to think I am complaining about our trials. We have a good life and are very rich in other ways, just not the cold, hard cash rolling in dough way. That being said, I do my best to stretch the money as far as possible, and that is what I have been up to lately. My most recent discoveries? Bountiful Baskets (see previous post), Smith Brothers Dairy, and <i>homemade mixes</i>.</div>
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Smith Brothers Dairy: During the Summer I signed up for home milk delivery from Smith Brothers Dairy. Their milk is hormone free and not ultra-pasteurized, and somehow it just tastes SO much better! The downside to this it that it is more expensive than buying milk at the grocery store. The unexpected upside? Between all the fresh fruits and veggies we get from our Bountiful Basket (www.bountifulbaskets.org), Baking my own bread and having our milk delivered weekly, I have found that I hardly EVER go to the grocery store anymore! We are also eating a lot more fresh fruits and vegetables these days than we ever did before. Healthy!</div>
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I guess what I'm trying to say is this: Having expensive milk delivered is saving me lots of money! I spend approximately $45.00 per week on fruits, veggies, bread, and dairy products (6 gallons of milk per week). I scour the weekly grocery ads for meat sales, and only go to the grocery store when there's a screaming good deal (like IQF BS chicken breasts for $1.49/lb at Safeway today), and then I stock up, because we eat meat just about every day around here.</div>
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Every couple of months we make a Costco run for essentials (flour, rice, pasta, etc.), but for the most part, I have cut my grocery budget to about $250.00 per month. I don't really know what other families of 7 spend on food, but there is a show on the Food Network called "$10.00 Dinners", where the host promises you can feed your family of 4 a delicious and healthy meal for only 10 bucks. I think this is funny, because I could feed my larger family dinner every night for $10.00, but then they wouldn't get breakfast or lunch! </div>
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Homemade Mixes: To combat this, I have been developing "mix recipes". I already had some good recipes for things like ranch dressing and onion soup mix, but I wanted to be able to replace all the store bought mixes that I like to use in my cooking (taco seasoning, zesty Italian dressing mix, country gravy mix, etc.) as well as the canned condensed soups that have gotten so expensive over the last few years (cream of - you name it!). I have spent a lot of trial-and-error hours working on these over the last few months, and now I think I have finally perfected the recipes (at least for <i>our</i> tastes). I will share the recipes with you in my next post, and if you are looking for ways to stretch your grocery dollars, I hope you will find them helpful. Also, if you have any money saving recipes you'd like to share with me, I'd <i>love</i> to try them!</div>
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<br /></div>Tom and Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01430514364846114695noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3234008127775824239.post-60953003335723828262011-10-08T11:08:00.000-07:002011-10-08T11:08:23.235-07:00Bountiful Baskets: Here at last<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">You may have heard of Bountiful Baskets food co-op before. I first learned about it last year from my good friend Dani Dooley. At that time, the closest pick up was in Lacey, WA. That was a little too far away to make it worthwhile for me. Recently, another friend started up a branch in our town. I was so excited that I signed up immediately. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It works like this: You sign up for a free account on the website: www.bountifulbaskets.org, then follow the directions to place an order for your town on Monday or Tuesday. The co-op then pools the money (about $15 per basket) to buy (mostly) local fruits and veggies, then volunteers (sometimes you) distribute them to other co-op members at a designated place and time.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I think this is a wonderful program. The savings are substantial, and we think it's exciting to see what shows up in our basket each week. Here's what we got this week:</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2 apple-pears</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">7 large bananas</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2# broccoli</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1-1/2# carrots</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">7 ears white corn</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">4 red bell peppers</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1 head of green leaf lettuce</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">3# new potatoes</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">7 limes</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">7 gala apples</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2# red seedless grapes</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">7 large red plums</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">1 pomegranate</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If I were to buy this basket of groceries at the supermarket, <u>in season</u> and on <u>super sale</u>, I would have paid approximately $25.00. The food is fresh, the savings are great, and I like the idea that there are always things in the basket that are not on my standard list. Since I refuse to let anything go to waste, I am forced to try new things and expand my family's fresh food palette.</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Check the website to see if it has come to a town near you. I think you'll be glad you did!</span></span></div>
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Tom and Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01430514364846114695noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3234008127775824239.post-41909493110503481742011-06-21T14:30:00.000-07:002011-06-21T14:30:53.993-07:00Adoption!!!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEovhDvshaR4UtwKw5vcXxTq0u1xe_08yS-0HXEYXeQAApfBQGCNkzZpK35PdzsgFobVbJalmXllcOAdGr3NOoL2tFKqBjzr7sYVAhE8CFyFQNG4Zlg9aVQnozKkdDThG_RDUgzxgSm5A/s1600/Adoption+Announcement+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="261" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEovhDvshaR4UtwKw5vcXxTq0u1xe_08yS-0HXEYXeQAApfBQGCNkzZpK35PdzsgFobVbJalmXllcOAdGr3NOoL2tFKqBjzr7sYVAhE8CFyFQNG4Zlg9aVQnozKkdDThG_RDUgzxgSm5A/s320/Adoption+Announcement+1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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After 21 <i>long</i> months of waiting, we are happy to announce that we finalized the adoptions of Emily and Michael on May 20, 2011.<br />
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It was a beautiful sunny Friday morning when we headed to the Pierce County Juvenile and Family Court House and joined with members of my family to await our turn to see the judge. Since there were so many people there that we got lucky and were picked to go first. It was a fascinating and exciting experience to be told that we were now the parents of these two precious children of God.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4dbCV0m-D5Q377MN3c3q7UR6FDkEsDPOgoYUbFXqSrlP1dvoEkK03S0_RtpPtS_H-p1SGzsxerU34rOZqYvXZcisOB1K1xSlnUYngGIyoF09ugYK708bfMzoUN6RKeUAwsajq9LRH6do/s1600/Adoption+Day+5-20-11+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="241" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4dbCV0m-D5Q377MN3c3q7UR6FDkEsDPOgoYUbFXqSrlP1dvoEkK03S0_RtpPtS_H-p1SGzsxerU34rOZqYvXZcisOB1K1xSlnUYngGIyoF09ugYK708bfMzoUN6RKeUAwsajq9LRH6do/s320/Adoption+Day+5-20-11+2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
The very next day, we gathered Tom's family and many of our friends and headed up to Bellevue to have Emily and Michael sealed to our family in the Seattle LDS Temple. It was a nice day, and we were so fortunate to be able to share both experiences with so many of our loved ones.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8PBWhpM7kQDWcghpZH7fcsYudlIfrKnoVQAeLmkxV-vxgTMrfW553rNlv9jUVDAikhym4u-qGFENE_kp-7ibV5_OFVQkdYIxGv3DqNA0YjrnkTk5nh6W-V2hezITbJhcunbiSBSIu2Z4/s1600/Forever+Family+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8PBWhpM7kQDWcghpZH7fcsYudlIfrKnoVQAeLmkxV-vxgTMrfW553rNlv9jUVDAikhym4u-qGFENE_kp-7ibV5_OFVQkdYIxGv3DqNA0YjrnkTk5nh6W-V2hezITbJhcunbiSBSIu2Z4/s320/Forever+Family+1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
We are so happy to finally be a "real" family. Thanks to everyone who came to celebrate with us and everyone who helped us get to this point in our lives. We are very blessed!Tom and Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01430514364846114695noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3234008127775824239.post-2403005648496615072011-05-16T13:09:00.000-07:002011-05-16T13:09:48.502-07:00Talk in my pocketYesterday I was asked to give a talk at a baptism about the gift of the Holy Ghost. The person being baptized was a 10 year old girl that my daughter has recently become friends with. I felt a little panicky because I only had about an hour to prepare and I didn't know what I was going to do! I ran home from church at 4pm and prepared the talk, then got back to the church at 5pm, right when the baptism began.<br />
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After the baptism, several people asked me for copies of my talk, so I'm going to post it here. Being the internet scavenger that I am, some of these ideas came from there, some came from my experience, but mostly they came from what I could find around the house on short notice!<br />
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I got permission from those attending to sit down so I could be on the same level with the baptizee, because I wanted her to feel like I was really talking to <i>her</i> about the Holy Ghost and not just giving a "talk". I started by congratulating her on making the decision to be baptized and how great it must feel, etc. Then I told her that some people compare the Holy Ghost to the sun, because he can be in one place but his influence can be felt everywhere, he illuminates things for us, and comforts us with his warmth, but I prefer to compare him to the wind, because you can't see the wind, but you can hear it and feel it. Sometimes it's soft, sometimes it's strong. Sometimes it's gentle and sometimes very persistent. You can't see it but you can see the results of it's influence (like the roads of Lakewood after a storm), etc. Then I said that the Holy Ghost is often called a "gift", because it is something Heavenly Father gives us to make our lives better, etc. I then presented her with a "gift", a box wrapped up and tied with ribbon. When she opened the box, I asked her to take out the items one at a time so I could explain why I gave each item to her and how it relates to the Holy Ghost. I also put a copy of the list in the box for her to refer to later on and be reminded of all the things the Holy Ghost can do.<br />
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Angelina; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">The Holy Ghost can:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div><ul type="disc"><li class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: Angelina; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Speak to you in a still, small voice so only you can hear. (Q-tip, or wax lips)<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: Angelina; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Warn you of danger. (Lighthouse or lifesavers)<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: Angelina; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Have healing power in your life. (Band-Aid or a pill bottle filled with skittles)<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: Angelina; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Remind you of right from wrong, good from evil, truth from lies. (Ribbon or string tied around your finger)<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: Angelina; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">The Holy Ghost can cleanse and sanctify you through repentance. (Soap or hand sanitizer)<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: Angelina; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">It will inspire you and light your path as you go through life and help you understand sacred things. (Candle or flashlight)<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: Angelina; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">He can teach you. (Ruler)<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: Angelina; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Guide your footsteps back to Heavenly Father. (socks or footprints)<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: Angelina; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">He can strengthen your hold to the iron rod. (Glue)<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: Angelina; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Let you know in your heart that God lives and that he loves you. (Heart) <o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: Angelina; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">He can help you understand spiritual things (Scripture Bookmark)<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: Angelina; font-size: 16.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">And finally, the Holy Ghost can testify of Jesus Christ. That Jesus died for us so that we might gain eternal life. (Picture of Jesus)<o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ul><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">I finished by bearing my testimony of how the Holy Ghost has helped me in my own life.</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">There you go, I hope you can use it if you are ever called upon to give this talk for a child, not sure it would have the same impact for adults.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div>Tom and Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01430514364846114695noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3234008127775824239.post-68318375041214109672011-04-24T23:15:00.000-07:002011-04-24T23:15:15.858-07:00Happy Easter!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMNgNvIh0wj5zzI1_PBxmGFbVRSJapHw8y_9ltL6fbX2u5KnKaM-SvixOw2tser6V0gBw5YHH9OA5VxmiVDDkR5ISaCR8K10HqB9BMAE8ER4-WjW-VeX9arntnh3267_0N6lpGtq8SuBo/s1600/Easter+2011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMNgNvIh0wj5zzI1_PBxmGFbVRSJapHw8y_9ltL6fbX2u5KnKaM-SvixOw2tser6V0gBw5YHH9OA5VxmiVDDkR5ISaCR8K10HqB9BMAE8ER4-WjW-VeX9arntnh3267_0N6lpGtq8SuBo/s320/Easter+2011.jpg" width="223" /></a></div>Today is Easter and boy, am I tired! I enjoy Easter, and all the other "kid holidays", but it seems that the more kids I have the longer it takes me to prepare and the less sleep I get leading up to the happy day. This year I procrastinated making the girls' dresses until just a few days ago, so that was my own fault, but also its hard to find free time to sew with everything else that's going on around here, so maybe I'll blame it on the big family after all......<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5ICB_XZNFu2_9qIogzcVapqYUHuwQRBOmzMe-wK8_jwSSDJRrUHFbdUlBXFzeTn1acKS1cZCa0D6Qn-1Kj-MS2g6toN4oCimsM9pnuJVq4a93wFJRJ9wIS5kjiSXKF_qCzbCMLpDBvts/s1600/Easter+girls+2011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5ICB_XZNFu2_9qIogzcVapqYUHuwQRBOmzMe-wK8_jwSSDJRrUHFbdUlBXFzeTn1acKS1cZCa0D6Qn-1Kj-MS2g6toN4oCimsM9pnuJVq4a93wFJRJ9wIS5kjiSXKF_qCzbCMLpDBvts/s320/Easter+girls+2011.jpg" width="223" /></a></div>These are my Easter girls. Since we are adopting E. and M. next month, I asked the girls if it would be OK if I made their dresses white this year so that they could also use them when we go to the temple to be sealed. They thought that was a great idea, so I let them pick out the fabric and patterns and made colorful sashes and also white ones for temple day. You can't see it in this picture, but they have big bows on the back that are very pretty, just like my girls!<br />
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This was the 8th Easter dress I have made for H., but only the 1st for E., since she wasn't always with us. Is it strange that I am sad for the dresses I didn't get to make for her before? Anyway, now I can make her all the pretty dresses she wants, and believe me, she loves to wear pretty dresses!<br />
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I missed going to my Mom's house for Easter this year, it is always good to get together with my family and catch up while sharing the holiday, but most of the kids are grown up now and Mom is very busy, so we went to Tom's parents house instead where we had a very nice Easter dinner and family birthday party. Between H., E., M., J.B., P., and B., there are plenty of little kids there to celebrate with!Tom and Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01430514364846114695noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3234008127775824239.post-44163279203416164442010-10-25T14:46:00.000-07:002010-10-25T14:46:23.368-07:00Lisa's Whipped Frosting Recipe<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrcEEIsf7zLhB7YKEsPtAQCpiHkXKDeEsU5uZuueCDBoIffQ2vuL8_s0vJuO6z4_osSIzUHkJE-9fAylCTGgoFC2I2c34zCpJyouIRLU_PeAkl9YBWM4KygtovwfhFeFgA1_TCc6uWp1Y/s1600/Too+many+cupcakes!!.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" nx="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrcEEIsf7zLhB7YKEsPtAQCpiHkXKDeEsU5uZuueCDBoIffQ2vuL8_s0vJuO6z4_osSIzUHkJE-9fAylCTGgoFC2I2c34zCpJyouIRLU_PeAkl9YBWM4KygtovwfhFeFgA1_TCc6uWp1Y/s320/Too+many+cupcakes!!.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Since my last post, several people have been asking me for my whipped frosting recipe (that I used on the Duckum's wedding cake). People who don't like cupcakes couldn't stop eating these because of the frosting. Some people even thought it was whipped cream. This seems like the best way to get the word out, so if you are interested in an easy frosting recipe that tastes light and creamy and not too sweet, give it a try (and let me know what you think).<br />
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Enjoy!<br />
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<u>Ingredients:</u><br />
1 Cup whole milk<br />
1 TBSP all purpose flour<br />
1 TBSP corn starch<br />
1 Cup powdered sugar<br />
1 Cup unsalted butter<br />
1 tsp vanilla extract (or other flavoring)<br />
1/4 tsp salt<br />
color as desired<br />
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<u>Directions:</u><br />
In a saucepan, combine milk, flour, and corn starch. Cook and stir until mixture thickens, then cover and refrigerate until thoroughly cooled. Then, in a stand mixer, cream together sugar, butter, and salt. Add cooked milk mixture and vanilla and whip until fluffy. <strong>This is the most important step!</strong> Whip this frosting on medium-high speed for <strong>at least 10 minutes</strong>. If you test it and it's not awesome, that means you haven't whipped it long enough. Keep whipping! Also, you can make this the day before, but you will have to re-whip it before frosting a cake or cupcakes.Tom and Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01430514364846114695noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3234008127775824239.post-70225703120873720822010-10-04T21:24:00.000-07:002010-10-04T21:24:38.383-07:00My Baby Sister is Married!I have been very busy over the last 4 weeks helping my sister Emily prepare for her October 2nd wedding to Michael Duckum. The wedding was in a beautiful setting (my parent's back yard). At first the weather was "iffy", but then when time for the wedding came (3pm), the sun came with it! It was awesome. Doesn't my sister make a beautiful bride?<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnC-Rw_QPGx9LxLL0J3aQoYEIuZyt6JLTExnxOtlmtgG9xVEKNlvABWgfr2ealWLK5wE43BZMl2fRN5_p2dVsMLGcQG0EF9_Das71DeDEwLjOIuRDEQ0zVq7L1avl_6CcE0GLTW107Ps8/s1600/Presenting+Mr.+and+Mrs.....jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" px="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnC-Rw_QPGx9LxLL0J3aQoYEIuZyt6JLTExnxOtlmtgG9xVEKNlvABWgfr2ealWLK5wE43BZMl2fRN5_p2dVsMLGcQG0EF9_Das71DeDEwLjOIuRDEQ0zVq7L1avl_6CcE0GLTW107Ps8/s320/Presenting+Mr.+and+Mrs.....jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
I was priviledged to be her Matron of Honor, while her 18 year old son, Taylor, was the Best Man. I wish I had more pictures to show you, but I am still waiting for more to trickle in....<br />
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The decorations were beautiful, the weather cooperated, and the day was a complete success!<br />
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My Mom and I and an army of helpers did all the food. We had a very ambitious hors d'oeuvres menu which consisted of hot and cold items. On the hot side we served: teriyaki chicken skewers, bleu cheese tarts, jalapeno poppers, bacon wrapped chicken packages, lumpia, mini crabcakes with roasted red pepper aoli, oysters on the half shell, and steamed clams. On the cold side we served shrimp coctail shooters, smoked salmon canapes, roast beef and artichoke canapes, pinwheel sandwiches, bleu cheese stuffed grapes, and sweet cream cheese stuffed strawberries. Everything was so yummy! If I get any pictures, I'll post them later, because it all looked beautiful, too.<br />
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Since Emily and Michael were on a tight budget, my Mom offered to pay for the food as part of her wedding gift, and I offered to make the cake as part of my gift. I'm not sure what I was thinking, as I've never attempted to make a wedding cake before, except that I knew that she couldn't really afford to buy one, and that cupcakes were a popular option right now. Armed with that knowledge, I supposed I could figure it out and talked her into trusting me....Then here's what I decided to do:<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIwfwc7OtmnCflgwzg3FTNxvXx-FlxS4ZfQsiv8TdWbB_QXxXMnzhVdXlS30Q1qmh072INQzBqln-dWEylvaudV7g1B6qbt33CP4J2hiuCvZ0BCOm2yMYCr3ldPMdzSF5vNUPQql3psUM/s1600/Cupcake+Tower+Raw.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" px="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIwfwc7OtmnCflgwzg3FTNxvXx-FlxS4ZfQsiv8TdWbB_QXxXMnzhVdXlS30Q1qmh072INQzBqln-dWEylvaudV7g1B6qbt33CP4J2hiuCvZ0BCOm2yMYCr3ldPMdzSF5vNUPQql3psUM/s1600/Cupcake+Tower+Raw.jpg" /></a></div><br />
I went to the hardware store and bought a 4X8 piece of 1/4" maple plywood and paid them to cut it to my specifications (they were not happy with me!). Then I drilled and nailed together 5 boxes that rest on top of each other like this.<br />
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Emily wanted chocolate cake, so I made chocolate devil's food cupcakes, and a small cake for the top (they wanted to be able to "cut the cake"). My Mom begged me not to use buttercream icing, because she hates how sweet it is, so I spent 2 weeks developing a recipe that tasted light and creamy, but not too sweet, and that was stable enough to hold up during the festivities. I was happy with the result, until the sun came out and smiled on the cake, at which time I started panicking because I really thought it would melt the icing off, but to my surprise it didn't, and everyone said it was delicious. Whew! What a relief! Here's the finished cake:<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmvQTLw3fEee26BNKDn4S4SZre29JKah7WlgSo6Jo9-en3HPUrxJgkBw0No4YauqmwCmF7QpyPKvBCBlekyLHBBb0zB_jVXtGJDT7KQO5WYL-_pIusDko1CefqsxNegBmurcMkiRtiycc/s1600/Cutting+the+cake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" px="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmvQTLw3fEee26BNKDn4S4SZre29JKah7WlgSo6Jo9-en3HPUrxJgkBw0No4YauqmwCmF7QpyPKvBCBlekyLHBBb0zB_jVXtGJDT7KQO5WYL-_pIusDko1CefqsxNegBmurcMkiRtiycc/s320/Cutting+the+cake.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br />
There were 94 cupcakes and about 60 guests. At the end of the day, we only had about 20 cupcakes left, so somebody must have liked them! You can't see it in this picture, but since she had a "sea" theme, I made little seashell candies out of white chocolate and put a purple one on top of each cupcake, and I made white ones to put on the top cake. You can see them better in this picture:<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEictF5jpHbqilwo_LDkNhAq3Gn_n1Hv0lOjYLPzRytyLz7U4opRO_uhg1Nkbl9M6rtBGbJ80zR-40CGmG5MFAQihsO8F6VNcIrHs4SolMb0ajZX2XfUIWmdHNy6sDcMj-yjgd6W5x8ZlrY/s1600/Top+of+cake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" px="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEictF5jpHbqilwo_LDkNhAq3Gn_n1Hv0lOjYLPzRytyLz7U4opRO_uhg1Nkbl9M6rtBGbJ80zR-40CGmG5MFAQihsO8F6VNcIrHs4SolMb0ajZX2XfUIWmdHNy6sDcMj-yjgd6W5x8ZlrY/s320/Top+of+cake.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
As part of my gift, I ordered the cake topper and presented it to the couple before the ceremony. I had planned to put it on top of the tower, but the top cake was too soft and it started to sink, so I had to place it on the second tier. Here's a picture of the topper:<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMlHRbU_zXrwrHxTJQnau_nSZw_g-YhLh426LC-B99f_GJTNNWhTg6U-sBlz5CrUVwzmLgUGzBpix0B5NkDrVlO1X4T0Dd00YBvkb2u3wIVKRXvqM44xd-zllihnuW_vruD8u_5SB23T0/s1600/cake+topper+couple.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" px="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMlHRbU_zXrwrHxTJQnau_nSZw_g-YhLh426LC-B99f_GJTNNWhTg6U-sBlz5CrUVwzmLgUGzBpix0B5NkDrVlO1X4T0Dd00YBvkb2u3wIVKRXvqM44xd-zllihnuW_vruD8u_5SB23T0/s320/cake+topper+couple.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Here are a few more pictures from the wedding:<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiLOi_JcLy6YdS649wiISRvVoXns0hZohTMDWFN9jea1sqzp-ph0bzv_NIoiUMOpE4eKT00SjVk_iDo8-innQN0eBvpvD5HdrVH9pWuyPYCj5vcOGpn69v4k1x-eYWx_Sx5erK7KD5FCk/s1600/Mom+and+daughters.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" px="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiLOi_JcLy6YdS649wiISRvVoXns0hZohTMDWFN9jea1sqzp-ph0bzv_NIoiUMOpE4eKT00SjVk_iDo8-innQN0eBvpvD5HdrVH9pWuyPYCj5vcOGpn69v4k1x-eYWx_Sx5erK7KD5FCk/s320/Mom+and+daughters.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Mom, Emily, and Me. What a team!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd0HyLGD13Y9DpBt7FB0WCB065Pce_R5_UhNOe4lXAR0oBehBvC9NNqbwMwluZB8Utis-nkJgFmjhZAsgQ_Fh71xvgzE4XfIKqDklWSZlNN96McvC8JqZJoJHkfXfhwBeB6jyi5f8e_n8/s1600/First+Dance.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" px="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd0HyLGD13Y9DpBt7FB0WCB065Pce_R5_UhNOe4lXAR0oBehBvC9NNqbwMwluZB8Utis-nkJgFmjhZAsgQ_Fh71xvgzE4XfIKqDklWSZlNN96McvC8JqZJoJHkfXfhwBeB6jyi5f8e_n8/s320/First+Dance.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div align="center">First dance as man and wife.</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghhWh1vioO1T_rOc64yxLVBaOh-2-pHb3-w-sUXXGeCcrMc1Z3MbGzIrkJ1WWIiJvZhEhzc3rpSiXaBHLfPtkbFD9qmA-GehZYSi3YiTJIMlbB5rfc-dBdWl7ri_vdDLFoSHzTTBnD0Jw/s1600/Into+the+sunset.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" px="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghhWh1vioO1T_rOc64yxLVBaOh-2-pHb3-w-sUXXGeCcrMc1Z3MbGzIrkJ1WWIiJvZhEhzc3rpSiXaBHLfPtkbFD9qmA-GehZYSi3YiTJIMlbB5rfc-dBdWl7ri_vdDLFoSHzTTBnD0Jw/s320/Into+the+sunset.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Into the sunset.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtSHA28QPIfwFeWUBqQz6bI5ltEfV4A7R1uMIw4E9BPrfVgIb8lCOF4uJcqysDJWIM9swj0XVJVUyhlI2xZp5HRuGx6D2Xs9o-cKwUp1SND_7FMXuBLQ3thr4u8NsjKSZBX2Y0G1KB2vY/s1600/Sweet+picture.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" px="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtSHA28QPIfwFeWUBqQz6bI5ltEfV4A7R1uMIw4E9BPrfVgIb8lCOF4uJcqysDJWIM9swj0XVJVUyhlI2xZp5HRuGx6D2Xs9o-cKwUp1SND_7FMXuBLQ3thr4u8NsjKSZBX2Y0G1KB2vY/s320/Sweet+picture.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Pure happiness.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5dNA9EMmm6wkpoCqd1A3xS0aQuxHA_vYhnG1_xvVCnTXi-yZP7cHl-He4FGbJQ5kxuXT148WF0qfWKW1rNUpVJSKjHvRgPD9GVVHZMAcNXiGh8kjTTtebkk9BCcraa3ScRKg9_8YkBiU/s1600/Four+Emilys.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" px="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5dNA9EMmm6wkpoCqd1A3xS0aQuxHA_vYhnG1_xvVCnTXi-yZP7cHl-He4FGbJQ5kxuXT148WF0qfWKW1rNUpVJSKjHvRgPD9GVVHZMAcNXiGh8kjTTtebkk9BCcraa3ScRKg9_8YkBiU/s320/Four+Emilys.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div align="center">"The four Emilys"</div><div align="left"><br />
</div><div align="left">Lastly, there is this picture of the four Emilys. As it turns out, there were 4 Emilys at the wedding. Left to right: (1) the daughter of a friend, (2) cousin Laleania's daughter, (3) the Bride, (4) my daughter Emily. Both Emilys flanking the bride are actually named after her! If you think it's funny that there were 4 Emilys at this wedding, imagine how confusing it was to also have 5 Michaels! :)</div><div align="left"><br />
</div><div align="left">Pulling this wedding together in 4 weeks was hard work, and I want to thank all the people who helped out, because we wouldn't have been able to do it without you! Glad to be a part of it, and glad to have it done, I came home afterward and slept like the dead most of the next 2 days!</div><div align="left"><br />
</div><div align="left">Next up: figuring out Halloween costumes for 4 kids......</div>Tom and Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01430514364846114695noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3234008127775824239.post-82961173234406788972010-09-23T00:23:00.000-07:002010-09-23T00:23:28.727-07:00Phone Nazi<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://scache.vzw.com/images_b2c/phones/mini/sam_intensity2_grey.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Samsung Intensity II" border="0" height="200" src="https://scache.vzw.com/images_b2c/phones/mini/sam_intensity2_grey.png" width="130" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">We have always maintained the attitude that kids do not need cell phones, except maybe for when they start driving. Recently, prompted by much whining that he is the only person on the earth without a cell phone (not true, I checked), we began to re-think our position on kids and cell phones. We made a list of all the usual pros and cons, and then went a little deeper.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">We started to look at how the world of communication has changed over the last 10 to 15 years. 15 Years ago we did not own nor think we needed cell phones ourselves, as we thought of them as more of a luxury than a necessity. While we still consider them to be a luxury, we also recognize that a huge part of many people's social lives today revolve around having that instant access to talk to or text their friends from anywhere. When I consult my crystal ball I see that the only thing that will stop this teenage cell phone obsession is the invention of newer, better technology. In the not so distant future, I can picture kids walking around talking to holographic images of their friends being transmitted from who knows where, just as if they were really hanging out together. I guess what I'm trying to say is that technology is only going to get more advanced as the years go by, and why not give our kids the opportunity to progress with it?</div><br />
On the other hand, there are many good reasons we may not want to give our kids a phone of their own. I have seen countless (really) kids who constantly lose their cell phones, or ruin them by dropping them in water, etc. And how many times have you heard a parent complaining that their teen jacked up their cell phone bill by $200.00 worth of over-texting? Then there's the question of cell phones in school. I hate the idea of sending my kids to school only to have them spend their day texting instead of learning.<br />
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After much discussion with our 14 year old son, here is what we finally agreed to:<br />
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1. D. may have a phone when he is able to pay for it. We will add him to our plan, but he must pay $10.00 per month (what it will cost us), plus $5.00 per month to add on "parental controls". If he does not pay his bill on time each month, his service will be suspended until he pays his bill. The initial startup for the phone he chose was $95.00, which he also paid for.<br />
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2. "Parental Controls". Daniel's phone will be disabled (except for a select list of family members' numbers) during the following hours: Seminary, school, church meetings, and after 9pm on school nights (11pm on weekends). He is allowed unlimited texts and 200 anytime minutes per month before his phone blocks those phone calls. He will not able to download any premium content to his phone.<br />
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3. D. and his parents must all sign a <em>detailed contract</em>. (I don't know how to post it here, so If you want a copy, please send me your email and I'll forward it to you.) The contract lists what we expect from him, what he can expect from us, as well as all the reasons he can get his cell phone revoked while still having to pay for the contract. It will be a challenge for him, but we hope it will also be a good learning experience. <br />
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We see this agreement as a way to give our son something he wants, as well as to teach him a lesson about financial and contractual responsibility. We hope that he will appreciate this opportunity and take it seriously, because if he doesn't, he will soon find that his parents were very serious when they signed that contract!<br />
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<div style="text-align: left;">So, after all these years of begging, D. finally has a cell phone of his own. Does he thank me for reconsidering his plight and finally siding with him? No, he dubs me the "Phone Nazi". I guess we know what we have to work on next...</div>Tom and Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01430514364846114695noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3234008127775824239.post-82539751120758596022010-08-27T00:52:00.000-07:002010-08-27T00:52:00.582-07:00The KitchenAid has landed!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic83D-xHfaSr3nMD6n1YoSviZ8o4BYLLX-ZoFU4DBMofKOg3E0zGTCaPj68x0ItMXHwOqTgDVMi1_u9V4gxhH6TtYWuJzEOvTHxMbq13ztykhwGnlWeI3LaWNXkfSaM80kH9Xq2QQ2xKY/s1600/My+KitchenAid.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ox="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic83D-xHfaSr3nMD6n1YoSviZ8o4BYLLX-ZoFU4DBMofKOg3E0zGTCaPj68x0ItMXHwOqTgDVMi1_u9V4gxhH6TtYWuJzEOvTHxMbq13ztykhwGnlWeI3LaWNXkfSaM80kH9Xq2QQ2xKY/s320/My+KitchenAid.jpg" /></a></div><br />
I have wanted a KitchenAid mixer for as long as I can remember, yet it always seemed to be just out of my reach. I have had many hand mixers over the years, none of which lasted very long in my mostly made-from-scratch kitchen. It is so frustrating to spend good money on a mixer only to have it rise up in revolt and try to electrocute me after only about 2 years of abuse.<br />
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Over the last few months, Tom has been hinting at getting me a KitchenAid stand mixer, but I have resisted (who in their right mind would spend so much moolah on a small kitchen appliance??). I almost got one for my 40th birthday in March, then I almost got one for Mother's Day in May, etc. In the end, my resistance was futile. Through a combination of Tom's superior reasoning skills (It would really make your life easier) and flattery (plus you really deserve it), he finally won me over, and boy am I glad he did!<br />
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I am in love with my new KitchenAid Professional 600 Series, 6 quart mixer! I have used it every day since it was delivered and have had nothing but success so far. The first thing I made was a double batch of Tom's favorite cookies (I suspect he had alterior motives here). In the past, I have always used my "big silver bowl" for this purpose. You know, the one that's bigger than the kitchen sink? The one that your kids could swim in on a hot day? Yes, that one. Anyway, I put my new toy to the test and I'm happy to say that it passed! So far (to name a few) I have made 48 dozen cookies, a double batch of lemon cheesecake bars, and 9 loaves of bread with total success. Don't worry, I gave LOTS of the cookies away before Tom even knew I had baked them!<br />
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If you have a KitchenAid stand mixer, I'd love to hear what you think of yours. Maybe you'll even share a favorite recipe for me to try? (hint, hint)<br />
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Now that the object of my obsession occupies a coveted place on my countertop, I couldn't possibly ask for anything more, except maybe for that Vita Mix Deluxe 5200 Blender that's been taunting me lo these many years...Tom and Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01430514364846114695noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3234008127775824239.post-87673104539586441532010-07-22T20:56:00.000-07:002010-07-22T20:56:20.900-07:00Slap on the Wrist!It has been half a year since I've updated my blog. I didn't think much of this until today, when a couple of good friends let me know that they are tired of checking my blog only to find it stagnant. I apologize to them and anyone else who feels let down by my blogging neglect. I promise to <em>try</em> to do better in the future.<br />
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Rather than try to include everything that's happened over the last 6 months, I will talk about a few of the highlights today, leaving some info. as subject matter for future blog posts, thereby encouraging me to update my little blog more often. Enjoy!<br />
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First of all, 3 of my kids have had birthdays. Most notably was Mikey's 1st birthday in March. The poor kid had to eat his cake with no teeth because he didn't cut his very first tooth until the day after his birthday! It didn't seem to bother him, although I couldn't be sure how much of it went inside him compared to how much of it ended up on the outside!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia_9wnviyEs5h2a2S9Jr0i_t9IWDqq1apIrlwHW65TRy5xFKWyZ-CjBT_qtOhlfd2niv9DrDezPt3kq3Joly9SHi8YVZas7umgTo-cbGSOJ3HSAEZpDLZC3QgLDBY1vuLQq4I9qOzvqFM/s1600/Mikey+1st+Birthday.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hw="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia_9wnviyEs5h2a2S9Jr0i_t9IWDqq1apIrlwHW65TRy5xFKWyZ-CjBT_qtOhlfd2niv9DrDezPt3kq3Joly9SHi8YVZas7umgTo-cbGSOJ3HSAEZpDLZC3QgLDBY1vuLQq4I9qOzvqFM/s320/Mikey+1st+Birthday.JPG" /></a></div><br />
OK, so we took a trip to Long Beach for Spring Break this year and it was a lot of fun, but it was COLD! We spent most of our time indoors, either shopping or watching the thousands of clamdiggers that converged on Long Beach for the opening weekend of razor clam season.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8n8n895a_j-arRfZqcCtDTp7E7eSBxZywLD2u_ou3eYmRMEZeFQLFaZyfmeU8YWlQSIxXFF93C5Ijkv-QVVuCawV-XyQuVlu-FMBwC-oLqIAJjmFTm55i7J-uWZvQph7KtTIcCGK1ars/s1600/Razor+Clamming.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hw="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8n8n895a_j-arRfZqcCtDTp7E7eSBxZywLD2u_ou3eYmRMEZeFQLFaZyfmeU8YWlQSIxXFF93C5Ijkv-QVVuCawV-XyQuVlu-FMBwC-oLqIAJjmFTm55i7J-uWZvQph7KtTIcCGK1ars/s320/Razor+Clamming.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">In June we took off again for a Johnson Family reunion in Lake Tahoe where we camped for a week and enjoyed the beautiful scenery of the lake. I especially enjoyed the 3-1/2 hour paddleboat cruise we took that was very fun and informative. While we were there, Me and the kids also toured some old mansions on the lakeside and learned a lot more about the history of the area (I love that kind of thing, and afterward even the teenagers admitted that it was cool.) We did some shopping, hung out with distant family members, and had an all around good time together.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibMDCz_eVfMH5qCRg8wTnb5cAb3vZ_kTLmlfz9yrdjMtcsBiqnJbnXxQmgR7U2YAizrXGqhmxYx4RGQrpEVDCU1SfoPtr5RyvaM0xSJfWGgpvknpJRdV-EfmW7WNqtUGnAiTY5Md0Ppao/s1600/023.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hw="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibMDCz_eVfMH5qCRg8wTnb5cAb3vZ_kTLmlfz9yrdjMtcsBiqnJbnXxQmgR7U2YAizrXGqhmxYx4RGQrpEVDCU1SfoPtr5RyvaM0xSJfWGgpvknpJRdV-EfmW7WNqtUGnAiTY5Md0Ppao/s320/023.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Cruises aren't so exciting for Tom. He takes a boat to work and back every day!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU8PxVxvwG4AXZX5qjJkuwTl5ZoLd8c_Q96MIxoniDTLUY0ebRK5QAjyLqG56eh8Do_9CdIru30j1-bjPm2w6Ej_FT_BdJo4_zmOtjJOBNECxGSX-1gNyE3Aa6ZaiJrHzqG3uau8iuZlY/s1600/026.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hw="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU8PxVxvwG4AXZX5qjJkuwTl5ZoLd8c_Q96MIxoniDTLUY0ebRK5QAjyLqG56eh8Do_9CdIru30j1-bjPm2w6Ej_FT_BdJo4_zmOtjJOBNECxGSX-1gNyE3Aa6ZaiJrHzqG3uau8iuZlY/s320/026.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Too much for Hannah!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDmkFviNrFLzwVTcL4hyphenhyphenNufN9xoFL_X9HfNg0Ui8GaeI7Rd1jt8Wl3HasswAbqAWpLUmpp-x83SBtk8bWi7M7QMLFwyX2yEPI6TTlRzgxBY9O-cRJO4IECq8hT6iH40zlkQ35wuPwwyGc/s1600/031.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hw="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDmkFviNrFLzwVTcL4hyphenhyphenNufN9xoFL_X9HfNg0Ui8GaeI7Rd1jt8Wl3HasswAbqAWpLUmpp-x83SBtk8bWi7M7QMLFwyX2yEPI6TTlRzgxBY9O-cRJO4IECq8hT6iH40zlkQ35wuPwwyGc/s320/031.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Emerald Bay - the 2nd most photographed place in the US. If you look carefully, you'll see Allan, Leanne, and Kira in the foreground next to the waterfall.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">After a week at Lake Tahoe, we headed to Utah for more adventures. We did a lot there and I have lots of pictures to download before I can write about it properly. Hopefully it won't be 6 more months before I get around to doing that!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Tom and Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01430514364846114695noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3234008127775824239.post-57559258902454446622010-01-01T15:22:00.000-08:002010-01-01T15:22:35.610-08:00New Year ReflectionsJanuary 1st, 2010. I can't believe it when I see that date in print. I remember being a girl of 9 years old and looking forward to the future. I remember thinking that the year 2000 was SOOOO far away! I was born in 1970, so the year 2000 represented a lot to me. First of all, it was the year I would turn 30 years old - I was pretty sure I wouldn't live that long, I mean, not even my parents were THAT OLD!!! Also, I thought of all the things that would be different in the future. Technology (we still had 8-tracks when I was a kid), cars (I wanted a hovercar so badly!), and I thought food would be made in "replicators" (I watched Star Trek and Battlestar Gallactica alot back then). It's fun to think back to how things used to be (remote control? Microwave oven? VCR? What are those???) compared to how they are now (I'm typing this on my laptop via WIFI connection).<br />
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In my wildest dreams I could never have imagined my life today. Although I have always believed in God, (I used to call "prayer lines" advertised on TV and have them pray with me - it was free back then), I didn't belong to any organized religion until 1984 when I was 14 and joined the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. <em>Arguably one of the best decisions I have ever made in my life.</em> That decision has guided me to every good thing and blessing in my life. First of all, I not only survived to the age of 30, but I will be turning 40 a mere 2 months from today (God willing!). Also, I have learned how to be more Christlike. I value service to others, kindness, honesty and faith in God. I served a mission at age 21 and learned a lot more about the Gospel and about myself and others. I was married to Tom, my best friend and eternal companion in the Seattle Temple in 1995 and we are now the proud parents of many beautiful, intelligent children. I am especially blessed with the opportunity to be a stay at home Mom to them. We had 2 babies of our own, are in the process of adopting 2 more, and for the past year, we have been foster parents for several newborns who, unfortunately, have been born affected by drugs or alchohol and must be protected from those influences until a safe and permanent home can be provided for them. Our family has been very blessed by this service to others, and sometimes I wonder who is getting more out of this; the babies, or us?<br />
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It's not that we haven't faced challenges over the years. To the contrary, we've had our share, it's just that with the Gospel in our lives, we have the tools we need to deal with them. We learn and grow from each tragedy, heartbreak, and disaster. I have learned to be grateful for the challenges in my life because, even though they are difficult to deal with at the time, their true value lies in their ability to make us better, stronger, and more prepared not only to deal with future challenges, but they also prepare us to help others in unique ways.<br />
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That being said, I hope that everyone who reads this has a very happy and healthy new year. I hope that you will accomplish all your goals and receive every good thing you hope for throughout the year. I know that I am excited about what the year will bring. Our 15 year wedding anniversary (I still love you, babe!), a milestone birthday for me, a milestone birthday for M (he'll be 1 in March!), a child entering high school/seminary and being old enough for Youth Conference and Church dances, and hopefully 2 adoptions will become final during this year, which will be the biggest blessing of all.<br />
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<strong><span style="font-size: large;">HAPPY NEW YEAR!!! </span></strong>Tom and Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01430514364846114695noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3234008127775824239.post-1889632983151526252009-12-29T21:06:00.000-08:002009-12-29T21:06:00.627-08:00Christmas Party!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7cXIdNnkEtApRkZVX2Ldyr5B8Mpf_cOR-NoDTb5uLc3jMrC2RbGeWds9MmBGFIgsbQ_MIQ2X3Ylf_XhjGu4mawb6APuYdYK1OwCX-BWEA6TArzJZMIVx1iVCmWvtrwHjmsKjRcbClh60/s1600-h/Daniel+and+Spencer+2009.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ps="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7cXIdNnkEtApRkZVX2Ldyr5B8Mpf_cOR-NoDTb5uLc3jMrC2RbGeWds9MmBGFIgsbQ_MIQ2X3Ylf_XhjGu4mawb6APuYdYK1OwCX-BWEA6TArzJZMIVx1iVCmWvtrwHjmsKjRcbClh60/s320/Daniel+and+Spencer+2009.jpg" /></a><br />
</div>We went to several Christmas parties this year, but my favorite one was the Ward party at our church. I swore off mall Santas several years ago after deciding it's not worth waiting in line for 2-1/2 hours with cranky kids, only to find, when we finally get our turn, that they gouge you on the picture prices, and Santa doesn't really have time to listen to what your kids want for Christmas (why else would they have waited so long to talk to you? Do you think THEY care about the pictures??). They just snap the picture and herd them through as fast as possible. No, thank you!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc7kQ3fo-iFTKXGhCETwKslxrsFh6jIWQXn4yIUEmX4IGs_ZhOkQnwTRF5xue1mjOY095rlLThdwGvELWOWoOlLvcH0ePGIVTLJsRW5-2SZzYwcAZosf-r3cDQK_hIvwD3DO9nvSw079Y/s1600-h/Hannah+and+Santa.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ps="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc7kQ3fo-iFTKXGhCETwKslxrsFh6jIWQXn4yIUEmX4IGs_ZhOkQnwTRF5xue1mjOY095rlLThdwGvELWOWoOlLvcH0ePGIVTLJsRW5-2SZzYwcAZosf-r3cDQK_hIvwD3DO9nvSw079Y/s320/Hannah+and+Santa.JPG" /></a><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">It may be less formal, but I sure do enjoy the atmosphere of the "church Santa" so much more than the mall version. It is WAY more memorable for my kids, and I am allowed to stand close enough to hear what they are asking Santa for.....(Just because I like to know). Plus, I always know who's lap my kids are really sitting on, and that's a comfort to me!<br />
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</div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1t4vFW8dEOIpUac5HoYk3irydQK3zlvVi3JMHO42UQ7fmqN5mOoW3_oMOunhlZ40HK0gtZ1SwgQMe7cJiPrYqvqGOe6HNMuPTIpYmTFedhqHIQq3hJWMR-ke6sf9JnExzwr5iQv7AIZo/s1600-h/Emily+and+Santa.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ps="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1t4vFW8dEOIpUac5HoYk3irydQK3zlvVi3JMHO42UQ7fmqN5mOoW3_oMOunhlZ40HK0gtZ1SwgQMe7cJiPrYqvqGOe6HNMuPTIpYmTFedhqHIQq3hJWMR-ke6sf9JnExzwr5iQv7AIZo/s320/Emily+and+Santa.JPG" /></a><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Aren't they cute? Another great thing about the church party this year is that Tom cooked all the food, and he did such a great job! We had pork loin and roasted baby red potatoes, along with a yummy veggie medley, salad, and freshly baked rolls (Those were ordered in). Everyone raved about the food. It made me so proud of him. He's still got it!<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpO8Cl893WWsRBmmLt1NiLmzKUBGm3AwwIpHSGVfj8exUjTE7gPIj8FQGF83P7cW3lm6FR1XF4dzMweISqJ_QI6vxOfgslUYsB5Fo8ZHIIpNnjbJUzkhjnjyzQ830M6Uomd6AB4CPmM0Y/s1600-h/Michael+and+Santa.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ps="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpO8Cl893WWsRBmmLt1NiLmzKUBGm3AwwIpHSGVfj8exUjTE7gPIj8FQGF83P7cW3lm6FR1XF4dzMweISqJ_QI6vxOfgslUYsB5Fo8ZHIIpNnjbJUzkhjnjyzQ830M6Uomd6AB4CPmM0Y/s320/Michael+and+Santa.JPG" /></a><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I didn't get a very good picture of Mikey this time, so I'm hoping my friend Dani got a better one, since she was taking pictures of all the kids on Santa's lap that night. If she did, I'll try to update this. Danny sat on Santa's lap, but didn't want me to take a picture of it, so I can't post it. Teenagers are strange that way, aren't they? Not too old to sit with Santa, but too old for anybody to have proof of it!!<br />
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</div>Tom and Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01430514364846114695noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3234008127775824239.post-23049130395209489492009-12-27T21:01:00.000-08:002009-12-27T21:01:46.007-08:00Thanksgiving in Long Beach, WA<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrDi8Yh5WgChjrM9m3lYQlDqjNqeCCU5nHiIBCVkbSEQ3y48qicrsQGZWZvrA65EDP1eWdyeMnBIo_fOX3FzKrvgcZ49ODQubkZLjGJ8LppzvDJgBSCWBaaCBmxleJ8uIlW4iU87H0FE8/s1600-h/Duck+Tracks.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ps="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrDi8Yh5WgChjrM9m3lYQlDqjNqeCCU5nHiIBCVkbSEQ3y48qicrsQGZWZvrA65EDP1eWdyeMnBIo_fOX3FzKrvgcZ49ODQubkZLjGJ8LppzvDJgBSCWBaaCBmxleJ8uIlW4iU87H0FE8/s320/Duck+Tracks.JPG" /></a><br />
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So we went to Long Beach this year for a week over Thanksgiving. The weather was beautiful, if chilly, and we had a unit facing the beach and boardwalk, so we had a beautiful view from every room of the condo.<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsfYrL1oTZjz2V-zCJKvRTSDnfYTbqbGZhFm583NfZ_5U4xxvHUz4ecwmO0bsRNIvvAvsytvunvma3tudLDmZvNA8PbyinAfqUUoLWKbNSeZ511j48YTnSlHGq1Q8btqmvqV9I4-gl0c0/s1600-h/Long+Beach+4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ps="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsfYrL1oTZjz2V-zCJKvRTSDnfYTbqbGZhFm583NfZ_5U4xxvHUz4ecwmO0bsRNIvvAvsytvunvma3tudLDmZvNA8PbyinAfqUUoLWKbNSeZ511j48YTnSlHGq1Q8btqmvqV9I4-gl0c0/s320/Long+Beach+4.JPG" /></a><br />
</div>We didn't get to explore too much of the great outdoors, but we did get to spend 6 hours in the ER at Ocean Beach Hospital in Ilwaco one day because baby C was pretty sick and we were very worried about him. The ER Dr. said he had a cold and sent us on our way. We found out a few days later (when we got home and took him to his regular Dr.) that he had RSV and we spent 3 days in the hospital observing him until he started to get better. It was scary!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtPcqIR17F-__GrJNI-UaZyIV0Pq1UuATigktxvlX1UK6o4VsumpTcqjvsel7cXsI0aD2ZxRcNZ0Vq5d_r9y3fgCAjKFEle9JWZY-pX58JXo2JAK6GnvGdIOZN4p8EF_zmnkTWiHQE-DM/s1600-h/Tom+and+Mikey.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ps="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtPcqIR17F-__GrJNI-UaZyIV0Pq1UuATigktxvlX1UK6o4VsumpTcqjvsel7cXsI0aD2ZxRcNZ0Vq5d_r9y3fgCAjKFEle9JWZY-pX58JXo2JAK6GnvGdIOZN4p8EF_zmnkTWiHQE-DM/s320/Tom+and+Mikey.JPG" /></a><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">So we spent a lot of time indoors, but Tom and I did manage to get away a couple of times to go Christmas shopping in Oregon (tax free!) Thanks to our family who watched our 5 kids for us so we could do that! It was nice to be with Tom's parents, and his 2 sisters and their families over the holiday. We played a lot of games, and watched a lot of movies, and most of the kids went swimming everyday, except the ones that were too sick (we all ended up sick before all was said and done).<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqVCELBXVmGeDVCM37hzo3ecBWcr40JREW97Amu4TgktLjjjfROq_8vxfrukKxLocOkkNw3jYVLUoGmNIydF8ToQa2PWvLrkZ3AqnGfPoo14t7PWkyKb2wRYe4z63O-2J7IwI3fEtM6ZI/s1600-h/PC010051.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ps="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqVCELBXVmGeDVCM37hzo3ecBWcr40JREW97Amu4TgktLjjjfROq_8vxfrukKxLocOkkNw3jYVLUoGmNIydF8ToQa2PWvLrkZ3AqnGfPoo14t7PWkyKb2wRYe4z63O-2J7IwI3fEtM6ZI/s320/PC010051.JPG" /></a><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">In the end, we had a nice time, and we remembered to be thankful for our blessings, which is the most important part, and it was nice to hang out without schedules and meetings, and everyday responsibilities for a change!<br />
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</div>Tom and Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01430514364846114695noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3234008127775824239.post-38008935120554862722009-11-23T21:41:00.000-08:002009-11-23T21:41:36.646-08:00Settling InNo pictures today, because I don't seem to have time to take pictures until after the kids are in bed, but by then there's nobody to take pictures of! I do want to say that we are settling in with our new family. Boy, I NEVER pictured us having 5 kids, but right now that's what we have. Luckily, one of them is temporary, although he's a sweetie and I would probably keep him if I could. Having 2 babies is certainly interesting.....I always wanted twins, so I guess this is my chance to see how it feels. The second hardest part is trying to go somewhere. On Friday we went to Target for more baby gear, and we had to put both babies in their carriers in the double stroller while putting the 3 year old in the cart. Luckily there were several of us to help push them around the store. The hardest part, though? Sleep deprivation. I'm not complaining. I am very blessed to have <em>all</em> of them in my life. Just stating the facts. With that being said, I'm off to bed while I still have the chance!Tom and Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01430514364846114695noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3234008127775824239.post-24752831116950783352009-11-11T12:31:00.000-08:002009-11-11T12:31:29.104-08:00A Visit from Bell's PalsyOn Sunday we were at Church, very much enjoying a special Stake Conference where Elder L. Tom Perry spoke to us, when Dan noticed that he couldn't close his left eye. Assuming it was some kind of muscle spasm, I told him we'd put a warm compress on it when we got home. But before we left church that day, he realized that the paralysis had spread to all the muscles on the left side of his face. He couldn't smile or raise his eyebrow, etc. Me, being the kind of overprotective Mom that I am, decided that a nerve is being pinched by a brain tumor and rushed him to the ER to get it checked out before it could grow any bigger.<br />
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3 Hours later, we left the ER with the comparatively wonderful news that it was "not a tumor" (remember: Kindergarten Cop), but Bell's Palsy instead. Whew! That's a relief!<br />
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For those of you who don't know (as I didn't) about Bells Palsy, here's an article that describes what it is: <a href="http://www.bing.com/health/article.aspx?id=articles%2fmayo%2f518713b29d2fbf1977e844bca6524327.html&br=lv&q=bells+palsy&FORM=K1RE1">http://www.bing.com/health/article.aspx?id=articles%2fmayo%2f518713b29d2fbf1977e844bca6524327.html&br=lv&q=bells+palsy&FORM=K1RE1</a><br />
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The Dr. prescribed 3 medications (an anti-viral, an anti-inflammatory, and an ointment to moisten the eye that he can't close) and told us not to worry. We are expecting a full recovery within the month.<br />
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Sorry there is no picture to post, but Dan didn't want me to post one while his face is still paralyzed (can you blame him?). Thanks to all our friends who helped us through those first few hours of uncertainty and dare I say terror before finding out his diagnosis. Tom and Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01430514364846114695noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3234008127775824239.post-34339779618415482772009-10-31T05:00:00.000-07:002009-10-31T05:00:07.122-07:00Miracles Happen<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnQK5xlABfp3gwJ9J0-ooT5OYNX97_G-Xv6iVIKZPH2vc8R1EQQAPpSgQLqJ_DC8N818qNMzZ4zJ6Xy0qV1oKWBJBwFzv_9sFzAfY2Ox1sJCNoezj1MbQorcvLWjYM5q0lpv_NIWfodlY/s1600-h/081.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnQK5xlABfp3gwJ9J0-ooT5OYNX97_G-Xv6iVIKZPH2vc8R1EQQAPpSgQLqJ_DC8N818qNMzZ4zJ6Xy0qV1oKWBJBwFzv_9sFzAfY2Ox1sJCNoezj1MbQorcvLWjYM5q0lpv_NIWfodlY/s320/081.JPG" vr="true" /></a><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">One month ago we posted about our two little foster kids who left us to go and live with a relative. It was a very sad time for us. On Thursday we found out that they are <em>coming back to us</em>. Miracles DO happen! We have really missed these little guys over the last 4 weeks! We wish they had never left, but sadly, it wasn't up to us. Now they are coming home and hopefully it will be for good this time! Of course, the judge has to rule before they can move back in with us, but in the meantime, we will be able to spend time with them, like taking them to trunk-or-treat at church tonight! They'll be spending the night so we can take them to Church tomorrow as well. We are grateful to have had these two angels in our lives and we are especially grateful to know that we will have them in our lives again soon. We love them so much!<br />
</div>Tom and Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01430514364846114695noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3234008127775824239.post-75102053981051993692009-10-26T17:35:00.000-07:002009-10-26T17:35:19.249-07:00Great Deals at Cash & Carry<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHwivOck6nY2iu89M59pfwyy53sH_p8RKVTfcIvlhNiLOy8yRtQJs2soSFbD-F8rKFO4XzNnK1S2u9gru7YWSz6GkuEMbCAvk8G5gY0Ka4EhsAB4lI8owCQX-hmL3vxqgDNp599Wp_Y1w/s1600-h/specials_banner.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHwivOck6nY2iu89M59pfwyy53sH_p8RKVTfcIvlhNiLOy8yRtQJs2soSFbD-F8rKFO4XzNnK1S2u9gru7YWSz6GkuEMbCAvk8G5gY0Ka4EhsAB4lI8owCQX-hmL3vxqgDNp599Wp_Y1w/s320/specials_banner.jpg" vr="true" /></a><br />
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My house smells like bacon. It doesn't always smell like bacon, but right now it does. Why, you may ask? Because of one of the great deals I got at Cash & Carry last week. If you don't know about Cash & Carry, then let me be the first to alert you to it's awesomeness. If you're willing to watch for deals, you will definitely find them there. Last week I stopped in (without even researching the sales) and here are the deals I got:<br />
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3 heads of green cabbage - .94 each (sold individually)<br />
11 lbs Hillshire Farms Kielbasa - $1.59/lb (11lb package)<br />
5 lbs sliced pepperoni - $3.45/lb (5 lb package. The 10 lb package would have been $2.97/lb!)<br />
24 lbs bacon slices and pieces - .49/lb (I bought 8 - 3lb packages)<br />
10 lbs yellow onions - .32/lb (10 lb bag)<br />
50 lbs LARGE baking potatoes - .12/lb (50 lb bag)<br />
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Grand Total: $58.50<br />
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Since I have a Foodsaver machine (and a couple of extra freezers), I brought the meats home and divided them up to freeze. I cooked 2 packages of the bacon (I think there was more meat on these than on regular sliced bacon!), then I chopped up the meat and now I have lots of frozen packages of bacon bits, which we will use in soups, salads, omelets, and on baked potatoes (we'll be eating a <em>lot</em> of potatoes in the coming month!).<br />
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If you are interested in seeing the sales at the Tacoma Mall Blvd Cash & Carry, please go to this link. <br />
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<a href="http://www.smartfoodservice.com/specials.aspx?Ad=UGA">http://www.smartfoodservice.com/specials.aspx?Ad=UGA</a><br />
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And if you find any screaming good deals, please let me know!Tom and Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01430514364846114695noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3234008127775824239.post-78689107775156978772009-10-13T18:43:00.000-07:002009-10-13T18:43:42.983-07:00Youth Conference!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgKnBYvaWBqHg-IuWMItLrUCmSuSv-7pQTHx-awtiGXscB9L47TyBzymxU0BN_aWYRRKJgj95RgVHp4j7Z18qmVxJdD7QBLzvcMVPYgcr7KkOS7n8ClN43RwEz_uvsSDcyqr52zOi07Is/s1600-h/PA100105.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img $r="true" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgKnBYvaWBqHg-IuWMItLrUCmSuSv-7pQTHx-awtiGXscB9L47TyBzymxU0BN_aWYRRKJgj95RgVHp4j7Z18qmVxJdD7QBLzvcMVPYgcr7KkOS7n8ClN43RwEz_uvsSDcyqr52zOi07Is/s320/PA100105.JPG" /></a><br />
</div><em>"I belong to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. I know who I am. I know God's plan. I'll follow him in faith. I believe in the Savior, Jesus Christ. I'll follow his plan. I'll do what is right. I'll follow His light. His truth I will proclaim!"</em><br />
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Since I am a counselor in the Young Women's organization at my church, I was fortunate to participate in this year's Ward Youth Conference over the weekend. A Book of Mormon marathon. It wasn't easy, but we read the entire Book of Mormon from cover to cover over a 2 day period. I am so proud of the 22 kids between the ages of 12 and 17 who valiantly showed up early Friday morning and stuck to a brutal schedule with minimal breaks, taking turns reading aloud until almost midnight, only to turn around and be back at 7am for another day of the same! I'm not kidding about the brutal schedule....We even listened to it during meals! <br />
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At first I thought that it would just be a fun challenge (do you really think we can do it in 2 days?), but that we wouldn't get much out of it, since we wouldn't have time to stop and discuss what we were reading. I was wrong. As for me, I gained a new understanding of the Book of Mormon as a whole. It seemed to flow so well together and I feel like I got a real sense of the timeline and history of the Book by reading it straight through. I don't think I've ever seen it from that perspective before. I am grateful for the opportunity I had to participate in this memorable event, and I hope that everyone gets the chance, once in their life, to feast on the Book of Mormon as we did. HAZAA!Tom and Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01430514364846114695noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3234008127775824239.post-34245332881150167432009-10-04T15:39:00.000-07:002009-10-04T15:39:17.612-07:00Goodbye to my sweet little ones<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix234LctRRpa5AOpMPoIlZXwoHUXPHTmFAPwbaa-n3qSC4KXoE9TKpglMUrA9O7RljGHGKThkCGDOzGsg-AmZJ2NFgDhzzwSnIiE3rvkc397gVpylp96-3eVjZxwQK7Azc1oX9ITOEUKU/s1600-h/Michael+and+Alexandrea4+8-09.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img $r="true" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix234LctRRpa5AOpMPoIlZXwoHUXPHTmFAPwbaa-n3qSC4KXoE9TKpglMUrA9O7RljGHGKThkCGDOzGsg-AmZJ2NFgDhzzwSnIiE3rvkc397gVpylp96-3eVjZxwQK7Azc1oX9ITOEUKU/s320/Michael+and+Alexandrea4+8-09.JPG" /></a><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">"Pinky sqaure....I love you!" - AJ<br />
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As sometimes happens in our lives, we had to say goodbye to these 2 incredible kids last week when they went to live with a relative. We are very sad to see them go! It is always hard to say goodbye, but sometimes it's downright heartbreaking - and this was one of those times. We really love them as if they were ours. In fact, if the option had been available, we would have adopted them and kept them forever. So good luck, you two. I hope you have a happy life with <em>all</em> the love and care you deserve. We miss you so much, and though we know as time passes you won't remember us, we'll never forget either of you! We love you, our little "magpie" and "cereal"!Tom and Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01430514364846114695noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3234008127775824239.post-53401031003863754732009-09-24T13:50:00.000-07:002009-09-24T13:50:20.438-07:00My Baby is Home!!!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjASLWodkBPwk18Je-RHq3KMgAyqSYafVpkB7ROWDi_JwwEWEUc5K2RJoA9mgLxJ7W-tSm8nUkbQdhkS_EfkuXJLVhyPxhX9KmaGlS6QRQJSHvHT9HvhUHynAfPHZ2O4pcoKJMMRIvT7kw/s1600-h/2009+Hood+Canal+Daniel+kissing+crab.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" iq="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjASLWodkBPwk18Je-RHq3KMgAyqSYafVpkB7ROWDi_JwwEWEUc5K2RJoA9mgLxJ7W-tSm8nUkbQdhkS_EfkuXJLVhyPxhX9KmaGlS6QRQJSHvHT9HvhUHynAfPHZ2O4pcoKJMMRIvT7kw/s320/2009+Hood+Canal+Daniel+kissing+crab.JPG" /></a><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Daniel kissing a baby crab!<br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">I have been missing my teenage son terribly since he left on a 2+ week vacation with his grandparents. Well, he came home yesterday and I was SOOOOOO happy! I didn't think I'd miss him as much as I did, but I was wrong. As much as he drives me crazy, I can't imagine my life without him! I'm glad he had fun on his trip, but I'm even more glad to have him back home where he belongs. Welcome home, "Baby"! I love you!!!<br />
</div>Tom and Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01430514364846114695noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3234008127775824239.post-60449137744409544892009-09-23T10:43:00.000-07:002009-09-23T10:43:41.303-07:00A New Addition<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUGDHrbqNDfU0PE1Ih_czKPS0zq4YPdjXSUjPI6V0daAuhOw0qKtGCDZHtq4oP4Cr-ifudbThQafBY90sO-RobGVDlG6e_nYibDcthS7bhzCoSrkeKAS7wXSfU8mTT0L6FuYIAL1IlRDo/s1600-h/Christian+Fernandez+at+hospital+9-22-09.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" iq="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUGDHrbqNDfU0PE1Ih_czKPS0zq4YPdjXSUjPI6V0daAuhOw0qKtGCDZHtq4oP4Cr-ifudbThQafBY90sO-RobGVDlG6e_nYibDcthS7bhzCoSrkeKAS7wXSfU8mTT0L6FuYIAL1IlRDo/s320/Christian+Fernandez+at+hospital+9-22-09.jpg" /></a><br />
</div>No time to post yesterday, as we welcomed a new addition to our home. Meet Baby C. He's a tiny little peanut at only 5-1/2 pounds. Since he is 8 weeks premature, he has spent the first 2 weeks of his life in the NICU, but was finally big enough and strong enough to come home with us yesterday, and we're very happy to have him!Tom and Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01430514364846114695noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3234008127775824239.post-28350412171468755522009-09-21T00:07:00.000-07:002009-09-21T00:07:59.537-07:00A day off!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRjJwj9woDoBE4hyyxIl3Nys22eqdCjRMjRrYjY-RNXAEWTo_q4SFtiPHqxq7I0iU19_HSfHn1ldTiPuxo9ynmaGqBynqPjvXpHv6JIoP-Rt4J9G8tWLCrKG_4CL-EvHZQMfd3zi0w22I/s1600-h/2009+Daniel+and+Michael+Eisiminger+Sleeping.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" iq="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRjJwj9woDoBE4hyyxIl3Nys22eqdCjRMjRrYjY-RNXAEWTo_q4SFtiPHqxq7I0iU19_HSfHn1ldTiPuxo9ynmaGqBynqPjvXpHv6JIoP-Rt4J9G8tWLCrKG_4CL-EvHZQMfd3zi0w22I/s320/2009+Daniel+and+Michael+Eisiminger+Sleeping.JPG" /></a><br />
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Well, more like 4-1/2 hours off, but still.....FREE TIME FOR ME! You remember when you were a little kid and your birthday was coming up, and you were so excited you just had to tell everyone about it? Well, that's how I have felt about this upcoming day off! On my day off I will be all alone with completely unscheduled time for 4-1/2 hours! Don't get me wrong, I love, LoVe, LOVE my family! But do you know how rare it is that I get this kind of free time? Well, I can't remember the last time, so it has been quite a while! So I'd love to stay and chat, but I've got to go and......Oh, yeah, I don't have to do anything! Hope you have a great day, too!Tom and Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01430514364846114695noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3234008127775824239.post-71829619158185518662009-09-18T13:54:00.000-07:002009-09-18T13:54:30.694-07:00Happy 1/2 Birthday!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1zXgaUywjo58REwXL9tU-8WncbPN5ieLTHyh7nhMK3Xx9aivsKTJ1HBQA5bzAGDpmRESrBGz0TqD1YzNUjAy3pV-IOhY1sP1-fPRuKCm4N86b-mkHPA7o9NlcuGLHwe7ivbuwnfS3KI8/s1600-h/Michael+Eisiminger+5+mos.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" iq="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1zXgaUywjo58REwXL9tU-8WncbPN5ieLTHyh7nhMK3Xx9aivsKTJ1HBQA5bzAGDpmRESrBGz0TqD1YzNUjAy3pV-IOhY1sP1-fPRuKCm4N86b-mkHPA7o9NlcuGLHwe7ivbuwnfS3KI8/s320/Michael+Eisiminger+5+mos.jpg" /></a><br />
</div>Baby M is 6 months old today! I can't believe he's been with us this long already! It seems like only yesterday we were bringing him home from the hospital.....He was so tiny then, only 6 pounds. Now he weighs in at 14 pounds, which is small for his age, but more than twice as big as he was only 6 short months ago! They grow up WAY too fast! We love this little guy, and wish he was our forever baby, but alas, it's not meant to be. He and his big sister will be moving in with their grandma in 2 short weeks. We'll miss them both so much! Happy Birthday, baby. We love you!!!Tom and Lisahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01430514364846114695noreply@blogger.com1