Kingdom of the Princess

Yes, still alive.

2011-03-02T14:13:00.001-08:00

Just in case you were wondering. Still well, still alive. I received a job assignment that keeps me working at least 4 days a week, a 5th if I choose. The opportunity has been great, as well as the pay check. I am working as a Intervention Teacher at our elementary school. Teaching EL, which is my speciality. Downside....little time to blog or do some of the fun stuff I use to do, i.e. laundry, dusting, vacuuming.

I am thinking of giving up my personal blog for a while, perhaps posting pictures of the family and activities, but that's pretty much what I do on Facebook now. This blog was intended for family viewing before FB.

I think I will continue my "craft" blog, and maybe just combine the two into one. I'm not sure. Really don't know if anyone else would mind. Not like I am solving the world's problems here. Just me and my little corner of the universe.

So until next time,

Have a great day!

Happy New Year!

2011-01-05T09:32:00.001-08:00

New Year's Day was spent with lots of carbs....eggs, french toast, cinnamon rolls, bacon and sausages. Serious heart attack situation. Thanks to those who came to our Open House Brunch. It was nice to relax with friends and play a little.

Our new game....Bananagrams. Totally fun, even if you are a horrible speller. I love it because we don't keep score and I don't have to worry about someone yelling....Your TURN! Shheesh.

Today I am watching the 1st episode of Biggest Loser....Talk about feeling like a lump. Did I mention we ate homemade caramels all day Saturday? Oh brother! Reality has set in.

Not setting any goals this year. Just trying to be a better person each day! Have a great one!

Merry Christmas

2010-12-25T20:49:00.000-08:00

Sending our wishes for a wonderful Christmas!

The Perfect Children with Santa

a.k.a. Sweet Pea, Drama and The Boy, formerly known as Lazy Boy,

My dad, Papa, starring as Santa Claus.

Halloween Wrap up

2010-11-01T14:18:00.001-07:00

Dinner with the missionaries, pumpkin carving shenanigans, Skyping with Sweet Pea and jack-o-lanterns on display.

Halloween on a Sunday this year, so we Trunk or Treat.

Drama in his best "In-N-Out Guy" costume. They loved him there!

Here's the old folks handing out candy.

We brought a laptop and showed "The Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown".

Can you believe there were kids who have never seen it...I mean teenagers!

Sorting the haul.

Mindy Gledhill and Facebook

2010-11-01T14:11:00.001-07:00

Busy month, but we also had a couple of really amazing days. One was the charity dinner/concert Big Daddy and I crashed. As always, it comes with a story.

Sweet Pea is at college, and thriving, thank you very much. She went to a street concert where she met her idol, singer /songwriter Mindy Gledhill.

So, I became a fan of Mindy's on Facebook. Let me tell you right now,

Facebook is where all the stuff is happening. Good and bad. This was good.

Miss Mindy posted a private concert she was performing at in San Diego, and space was still available. Flash forward a week, Big Daddy and I walked into this event with 100 strangers. It was fantabulous! You can see some of the wonderment here.

Big Daddy and I in the backyard woodland

We sat next to the sweet girl who created this!

And here is Mindy singing her heart out. That's my fuschia sleeve there!

Mindy's music is lovely. She has a beautiful voice and her music sounds as good live as her new cd Anchor. Of course, I had to meet her and tell her about Sweet Pea, and our neighborhood photographer who took the pictures for her album cover, and gushed over her.

I may have even told Mindy, "Pretend like we are best friends. I'm trying to tick off my daughter."

Photo taken in dark on Big Daddy's phone.

I was bummed I didn't bring my camera, but was relieved when I saw a bunch of "docu-moms" photographing the event. I have borrowed their pix.

So, dinner...delicious, concert...terrific, charity auction...AWESOME.

I won the best prize... paper. For those of you who check out my craft blog, you'll know I am a paper freak. So, not only did I win a boatload of gorgeous paper, I got lots of goodies to go with.

Check it out!

All this goodness was donated by Margie Romney-Aslett of The Girls' Paperie fame.

Wowzer!

I have had little time, but did create a candle wrap for my Halloween mantle this year. I am dying to dig into all of this gorgeous goodness!

OH, but that's not all.

I was also the winner of a Secondsister treat- A scollar.

Precious! Can hardly wait til the weather chills and I can rock this cool collar.

April really is an artist. She illustrated the delightful pictures in Mindy's video,

as well as being a phenomenal hostess. Check out her jewlry at Etsy.

So, crashed a party, made new friends, front row concert seats, won paper and a coolio scollar.

How is that for Facebook?

Autumn

2010-09-29T10:07:00.001-07:00

We have had a very mild summer this year. We enjoyed it and relished in the coolness. Never mind we didn't have that many beach days or our tans never really developed this year. School began and we even had a few sweater weather days, then POW the heat turned on. Monday it was 110 degrees and didn't feel much like Autumn.

In my efforts to attract cooler weather, I present my front door:

I know, wishful thinking.

Banana Bread

2010-09-29T09:50:00.000-07:00

Ripe bananas, of course, call for banana bread. Over the years I have made lots and lots of loaves, muffins and pans full of this delicious treat. I used a family recipe for years, then found a recipe in Lion House cookbook, but my favorite is this beauty.

It's from the Simple and Delicious magazine/website called

"Lightened-Up Special Banana Bread"

Here's what makes it so yummy......cream cheese.

It's dense without being heavy, but it is moist and tasty.

The recipe makes 2 loaves, although I prefer to bake it in a 9" x 9" pan because it bake more even. Then, once baked and cooled, drizzled with an orange glaze. Yippee!

I have already dove into the pan. I am thinking about sharing the loaf.

Wonder who the luck recipient will be?

24 Servings
Prep: 25 min. Bake: 55 min. + cooling

Ingredients

1 package (8 ounces) reduced-fat cream cheese
1/2 cup butter, softened
1-1/2 cups sugar
2 eggs
1-1/2 cups mashed ripe bananas (about 3 medium)
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
3 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup chopped pecans, divided (I use walnuts )
ORANGE GLAZE:
1 cup confectioners' sugar
3 tablespoons orange juice
1 teaspoon grated orange peel

Directions

In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese, butter and sugar until well blended. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Beat in bananas and vanilla. Combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt; gradually add to creamed mixture just until moistened. Fold in 1/2 cup pecans.
Transfer to two 8-in. x 4-in. loaf pans coated with cooking spray. Sprinkle with remaining pecans. Bake at 350° for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean.
In a small bowl, whisk the glaze ingredients; drizzle over loaves. Cool for 10 minutes before removing from pans to wire racks to cool completely. Yield: 2 loaves (12 slices each).

Nutrition Facts: 1 slice equals 235 calories, 10 g fat (4 g saturated fat), 34 mg cholesterol, 157 mg sodium, 34 g carbohydrate, 1 g fiber, 4 g protein.

Lightened-Up Special Banana Bread published in Simple & Delicious January/February 2010, p46

Fall and Stuff

2010-09-29T09:23:00.000-07:00

School has been in session for over 6 weeks. How is that possible?

Time is spinning without my permission.

Here are a couple of updates.

Drove to Las Vegas and lunch at the Rio with the Queen

(She is cuter and thinner in person!)

went to the new Hobby Lobby in Henderson,

where I unfortunately found nothing to purchase,

attended my nephew W's baptism

took Sweet Pea to college

and met her new roommates

Drama began 4th grade

received his Bear award in Cub Scouts,

was awarded Student of the Month for September

(Big Daddy says he makesa good first impression)

and turned 10 years old.

Lazy Boy took the month off. Actually, he began 10th grade, seminary, working on his driving permit and is currently nursing a ruptured ear drum while playing Wii and watching Top Gear.

Cheers!

Old Town Fun

2010-08-16T10:08:00.001-07:00

Remember our cute nephew and his cuter new wife, The Darlings? They came to visit us this weekend. We, and by we, I mean not Big Daddy and NOT Drama. Why? Because Drama pitched a super hissy fit and Big Daddy wanted to leave him home alone. I am not sure if that is legal yet, so Big Daddy stayed home with Super Hissy while the other kids and I played.

First stop, Farmer's Market. We bought these delicious berries,

and saw many beautiful flowers

and watched the Darlings dance to Earth, Wind and Fire.

Next stop...Old Town

We have a cool Root Beer store that sells a bazillion kinds of sodas, homemade root beers, as well as a wicked Root Beer Floats. Yumm!

Some evil doers were selling puppies in the parking lot. Actually, they were very cute poodles and Mrs. Darling wanted one very badly. However, wise Mr. Darling told her she couldn't have one now in an apartment, but she would get a dog after she graduates from college. I think that is a good trade. To make her feel better, I offer to give, or lend our Mr. Poop's Rainbows and Sunshine. Unfortunately, she did not take me up on the offer.

Our Old Town has a few antique shops, restaurants and even our own psychic.Her office is always closed. Maybe she knows when I am coming.

Here is Mr. Darling relaxing with a local while the girls shopped and Iron Man, who is quickly reverting back to Lazy Boy, spying a super, slick Stingray. Not gonna happen, partner!

Of course, no trip to Old Town is complete without a carne asada lunch at Rosa's Cantina.

Next stop....Wine Country. We drive out to wine country and stopped off at some friends house. He was working in the yard and gave us a bunch of apples, little, tiny, tart apples. Thanks Steve! Now I need to make a pie.

Last stop, home. Saturday was the first day in a long time that it had gotten hot enough to swim. Sounds wierd, huh? But it was a beautiful day and the boys entertained us with some of their jumps.

Then the Darlings left for Orange County. Party over.

The End!

How I spent my summer vacation, 2010

2010-07-30T01:40:00.001-07:00

Our summer has not been too exciting. No big vacations ( Yes, I hear you Hawaii.) Big Daddy and Iron Man were away on their adventure on Lake Mead. I thought the orphans at home should have fun. We live so close to San Diego, but hardly ever go there. So, packed up the car and took Sweet Pea and Drama down south.

I had our itinerary planned out, but we got a little lost and went from Z to A. It worked out better, usually does. Our first stop was Coronado. From San Diego we drove over the bay on a very narrow and tall bridge. Heights usually don't bother me, but this was creepy.

We walked along the beach at the Hotel Del Coronado, looked at sea creatures, watched planes coming in and got our feet wet in the golden sand. It really looks like gold in the water. We walked through the hotel were we saw movie memorabilia from the famous film "Some Like it Hot", which was shot there.

We walked through Coronado village and went to one of my favorite places is called Seaside Papery. Of course they sell invitations and lovely cards,The window display is WOW (see HERE) and the butterflies are amazing.

We also bought overpriced chocolate pecan turtles and taffy and had lunch at the Beach-n-Diner with fabulous onion rings.

Deep Fried Onion Coma setting in.

The road that goes through town had a huge grass berm in the middle. It's filled with beautiful flowers, roses, bushes and arbors. Note to self: Make front yard look like Coronado.

After lunch, we drove to Old Town San Diego to visit the Mormon Battallion. It has been closed for quite a while and just recently reopened. All I can say is WOW! Glad to know my tithing is going to something cool. The Church really stepped it up a couple of notches...like Disneyland status. Drama's favorite part was trying on costumes and panning for gold (pyrite).

From the Mormon Battalion we walk down Old Town and bought more over priced candy. I mean, seriously. I paid over $3 for stupid gum on a roll for Drama and $6.50 for a handful of Dr. Pepper jelly beans. They were, however, DELISH!

By now lunch has long worn off and it's time for our last stop- IKEA. We were dorm shopping for Sweet Pea, looking for some awesome deals. Our big score of the day was spice jars to hold my buttons and wrapping paper, 3 rolls for 99 cents! But the real deal was dinner. Have you ever had those IKEA meatballs? Yummy! Sweet Pea and I split a plate of those tasty dudes. Drama also had the meatballs, of course, with a side of mac & cheese. Remind me to tell you the story of when he order mac & cheese, with 2 sides of man & cheese at Claim Jumpers.

So, our orphans trip out turn out to be really fun. Our tummies were full, pocket books empty and legs tires, but we were happy.
The End

Summer storms

2010-07-19T04:21:00.000-07:00

It it 4 :25 am and I have been up for about 2 hours. Insomnia, again.

Stupid menopause!

So I thought I would post some cool pictures of our

summer storm a few days ago.

Unlike you neato people in the midwest, we hardly ever get any cool storms with thunder and lightning during the summer.

We get earthquakes. A lot lately. Hum....

Sweet Pea and Iron Man were laying on the front lawn with me until it began to rain.

Summer...hot, wet and fun!

Stay Cool!

Tired

2010-07-14T11:10:00.000-07:00

Hi!

Yes, I am alive and fairly well. It's been 3 months since my last post. The cute wedding couple, if you recall. Well, right after that, all the crap hit the fan. Little League playoffs, LaCrosse season with banquets, senior projects (not mine, but I do have to be supportive), work, graduation, luncheons and parties up the yah-hoo.

I took a small leave of absence from blogging, cleaning and life. Enjoyed friends visiting, cool weather and laying around. That can to a screaming halt yesterday when I realized summer vacation with half over. CRAP! I've done nothing. Well, very little anyways.

Today I am on day 2 on cleaning out/up my craft room.

That's a couple of days there.

Finally it's warm, 95+, enough to hit the beach for the first time. Iron Man comes home today. He has been driving, illegally, mine you, all over Idaho and Montana. Thanks Grandpa.

I'm listening to Christmas music...not on purpose. I am listening to my Itunes, and I am too lazy to change. I think I am well into Menopause. There is a topic of discuss that should keep everyone rivet to their computers. Bluuuuuuh!

So there. My life all caught up. BORING! Now I am going back to the dungeon to clean up .

See ya!

The Wedding, Part 1

2010-04-27T13:42:00.000-07:00

Here is the wedding couple, who will be now known as "The Darlings"

We were invited to attend the Darlings wedding (Big Daddy's nephew and fiancee) in SLC over the weekend.

We made a cannonball run (definition: fast trip up and back) ...drove THursday night to Vegas (sorry Queen, all drive, no play) , then all day Friday just in time to check into our hotel and shower before the Groom's dinner. Here are some family shots. Notice the Darlings are not in one picture. Too busy smoozing the crowd.

Big Daddy and Moi

Grandpa and Iron Man

Mini Princess and Grandma

The A Boys

Aunties and Sweet Pea

Doesn't everyone look happy? What a wild day it was to get there. Sweet Pea had to register for a federally regulated drug and take a test over the phone to get the prescription filled, while we were drove 500 miles through rain and sleet. Not fun! But she passed and is now taking a medication that we hope will change lives (shwoosh!).

Stay tuned toThe Wedding, Part II

Neglect and all her chores

2010-04-20T09:52:00.000-07:00

Hello Darlings...so sorry to have neglected you. I just realized it has been a month since my last post. Lots of boring stuff going on....working, A LOT, to pay for my children, their transgressions and dreams, Little League is in full bloom, and of course, LaCrosse. Oye!

Here is a couple of highlights:

Easter Eggs

I think he is singing

Spring break in Palm Springs...

and can you believe I didn't stop to get cookies at Sherman's deli.

That's really about it. Laundry, some cleaning, work and crafting. How sad! Summer is almost here...bring on the beach!

My Money

2010-03-17T10:28:00.000-07:00

We are very blessed to have jobs, good jobs. Yet is seems like we always in a pinch for money. This year we have cut out tv, land lines, a trip to Europe, among others. But I finally realize where the big bucks are going. Sweat Pea may a visual display for all the world to see. Enjoy!

The Holy Trinity of Debt is BYU (aka tithing, but I can't find a sticker that says "10% Club"), GOHS, the kids' high school, and Hawaii (a symbol of all vacations)

Bytheway, the van IS paid off! Whoo Hoo!

Reflections 2010

2010-03-04T11:07:00.000-08:00

This year's reflection theme was: "Beauty Is:

taken in our front yard in October 2009

taken at the giant flag down by the I-15 freeway

Drama submitted 2 photographs and the sunset won first place in his division for his school. We were invited to the local school district's ceremonies. He received a nice certificate of participation, but alas...did not win this year. He was totally ok with it. What he was really burned up about was the pronounciation of his school's name. The announcer got it wrong every time. Funny kid.

Talent Show

2010-02-01T15:10:00.000-08:00

Lexie participated in our ward talent show on Saturday. She played the guitar and sang a favorite, "Ask Me", by the Smiths. Enjoy!

Piano Recital

2010-02-01T15:08:00.000-08:00

Finally, Lexie and Cooper's piano recital from Christmas. Our video camera is crap...their performances deserve so much better. Enjoy

Transformation of Lazy Boy

2010-01-20T16:26:00.000-08:00

Our oldest son will turn 15 next week. In the past, he was known for his moodiness, lack of motivation and video skills. This year he has amazed me. He has come out of his shell and into his own. For one thing, he has grown about 6 inches in height. All of his pants were too short. His voice has deepened and his face has thinned out. But those are just some of the physical aspects. He has developed a great sense of humor, which is essential in our home. He has become a great student at school, which is always appreciated. He not only attends morning Seminary at 6:00 am before school, he loves it. But most of all....he has gotten off the couch.

We have called him Lazy Boy, to his face mind you, for the past couple of years. We spent a week on a houseboat at Lake Powell a couple of years ago. Great opportunity for swimming, exploring, skiing, wakeboarding. Nope, playing Game Boy on the couch. Sheesh!

But Lazy Boy he is no more. I have renamed him "Iron Man". And I have LaCrosse to thank for that. Iron Man joined the high school LaCrosse team just before Christmas. Practicing for2 hours a day, 6 days a week has been remarkable. His metamorphose has begun.

Here are some pictures of Iron Man at his first scrimmage yesterday. He is in the purple penny.

Still sweet, kind and honest...soon to be the greatest all-around boy on the block.

I will be accepting applications for dating. Although he can't date for a year...it will take me that long to narrow down the field for him.

MLK

2010-01-17T21:15:00.000-08:00

Happy MLK, Jr. Day

Finally

2010-01-17T18:06:00.000-08:00

It's true, it's true. Sweet Pea has been accepted to the college of my choice. After 3 months of waiting, praying and agonizing, she got her acceptance last Saturday. She will be attending BYU-Idaho in the fall 2010! Hooray!!!

Here she is with her friend, Reno Girl, who also will be attending college with Sweet Pea.

Way to Go Girls!

Happy New Year's 2010

2010-01-02T19:13:00.000-08:00

This post is another very selfish ones.

My family spent Christmas at my parents home. I had 4 out of my 6 siblings there. It was lovely. Staying up too late, talking. watching movies, and eating.

Just to make sure we have a little bit of a spiritual tie-in, we have out annual visit to the cemetary.

These are my wonderful parents, Momsy and Popsicle. They are the BEST.

My dad and I both have a "Queen Elizabeth" rose bush in our yards. Amazingly, they are extremely hardy and beautiful. Both of ours have lovely blooms, even now, and has grown over 6 feet tall this season. The buds on my bush were not quite ready, but Popsicle had a perfect flower for Libby's gravesite.

Drama and Lazy Boy cleaning off the gravemarker.

Since this is the children's section of the cemetery, there are many, many holiday displays with toys, trees, lights, etc. It makes me kind of sad. What if the loved ones of those children think that is it? They will never see their child again. We have gone and found a virtual picnic going on. A canopy, chairs, table, food. Very strange to me. I suppose that is how they display their love and honor for their loved one.

That made me think. I do I show my love and honor. Am I an honorable person? Do my actions and words reflect my feelings and commitment? If you were to base your answer solely on the statements and comments made here, no. This is my dark side.

So, my goal (I don't do resolutions..sounds to much like the United Nations getting involved)

is to reflect in my words and deeds those things I believe. Easily said, difficult to do.

So those of you who know me, next time you see me going off at a customer in Walmart, please call me on it. I'm going to need your help.

Happy New Year's!

Happy Birthday Libby!

2009-12-08T06:00:00.000-08:00

Today is Libby's birthday. She was born on Monday, December 8, 2003. We will not be celebrating with candles and a cake, balloons or toys. Kinda of sad.....but I don't think we will even make it to the cemetery this year. We had a wicked rain storm yesterday, and everyone has school and work and the cemetery closed at sunset...so not much of an option. I was able to keep the crying to a respectable minimum at church on Sunday. I think this year may just slide under the radar.

However, in memory of our little angel, I have my Christmas Angels on display and on the tree with "Libby's ornament".

I can't read it out loud without gasping with tears. I also have 3 or 4 beautiful blooms I will cut off my Libby Rose bush today.

I am working today, spending the day with little Kinders. Time with them, Big Daddy and the other kiddos will fill my heart.

Happy Birthday Libby Rose.

Holiday Decorations

2009-12-07T23:20:00.000-08:00

Well, the first week of December has come and gone. I thought I would be pretty on top of the decorations, but then my brain gets in the way.

About 2 years ago we had a little plumbing leak, which left a patch on the wall in the dining room. I looked at the patch everyday for 2 years, and I couldn't stand it any longer.

I decided since I had to repaint the wall, why not make it better. I had the paint matched, but at 300 %. That's like tripling the color. So I painted a couple of accent walls.

The dining room and living room were a mess. And I was suppose to be setting out Christmas decorations. Right!

Here's Mr. Oliver supervising my construction.

I spent all day Friday painting, cleaning, vacuuming and decorating. And today, I am happy.

Here is my beautiful "Pretty" tree. I had some left over stuff so I "Vickified" it. If you know Ms. Walker, you know what I mean. I'd like to channel her creativity when it comes to home decor. I am usually just too lazy.

But, tah-dah....I am happy with the rooms now.

AFTER:

You may notice "Scout, the Christmas Elf" in the candle display.

Wowzers....don't know what happened to this..but it is my Nativity collection

Now just have to do the "Kids" tree. Yikes!!!

Thanksgiving

2009-11-29T22:33:00.000-08:00

Wow! What happened to November? It took me so long to catch up with October.... Big Daddy and I hosted Thanksgiving again this year. We kinda have an agreement with HRM Momsy. We do Thanksgiving and she does Christmas. Fair enough. Only last year it took them 3..THREE hours to get to our house. Mind you, they live 77 miles and all on state/local highways. No driving through twisted mountain roads, no snow...just cars and people. So, we decided to celebrate Thanksgiving on Friday. No bad traffic and everyone arrived calm and happy.

Big Daddy is a Kindle fan. It's that electronic reader from Amazon.

He downloads all kinds of books, some for free. When he first got it, he downloaded the Cooks Illustrated somethingarather. He was browsing on Thursday whilst I was creating about 60 "Best Rolls Ever" and 3 pies. He found some kitchen testing on turkeys and decided we should try a new approach. So at 11 pm after playing 2 1/2 hours of Monopoly (which, of course, I won) we began to "brine" our turkey. We used a clean,orange Home Depot bucket, filled it with water and 2 cups of table salt, dropped the turkey in, snapped on the lid and set it in the backyard. I know...sounds scary. But botulism never entered my mind. Im a positive thinker when it comes to food. Big Daddy got up early Friday morning with Drama who wasn't feeling tip-top, and checked on the turkey. It was 37 degrees outside, so we were pretty safe. By the time I got my lazy can out of bed, he had rinsed and dried the bird. We stuffed it with carrots, onions and butter, shoved it in a cooking bag and plopped it in the over. 5 hours later, we had the MOST delicious turkey we have ever cooked.

Puppy, aka Oliver, waiting for turkey to hit the floor.

It was mosit and tender and yummy. It even made the best gravy I have ever created.

This is me, sans makeup, pouring gravy into a thermos carafe. This is one of the most ingenious ideas some told me. It kept the gravy nice and hot for over 3 hours. And it's easy to pour and easy clean. Just a tip.

Here was the key...of course SALT. I am so bad when it comes to salt. I salt food before I even taste it. Salt green apples and watermelon....yumm! So when the bird came out already salted and spiced, not all dried out like pioneer food.

So...Big Daddy scored big in the kitchen this year.

In addition to the turkey, we had mashed potatoes, green bean casserole (note to self: make only 1 batch next year. 2 was too much), gravy, sweet potatoes (also note: we could probably do without since I am the only one who eats it) and of course, cranberry sauce. Not out of a can though. I found some deliciously made sauce at Henry's when getting produce. It was also delicious with Brie on crackers.

Oh...food, glorious food.....

Here are some happy campers. I think Lazy Boys was the only one of this kids who ate a little of something. Next year, mashed potatoes and rolls only.

Oh, and HRM's Almond punch.

Forget the rest!

October recap

2009-11-23T23:31:00.000-08:00

Well, I finally got part of my iPhoto library restored so that I could post about 6 weeks worth of stuff. Thanks for being patient and taking a gander.

Princess Danell

Trick or Treating

2009-11-23T23:03:00.000-08:00

Our school, mine and Drama's, has a Harvest Festival each year...read "Halloween Carnival". I had a thousand and one things book for this week, and the last was Drama's costume. Now bad of the stress is my fault. I want to do too many things, including creating a costume based on a cartoon. I thought of this costume months ago, even planning the hair. This was important because I knew Drama was going to win an award and I didn't want his hair all weird for his award ceremony. So we had to wait until after school Friday and SHAVED his head. Yep, I am that mom. It was awesome. He acted as if it was killing him, but he loved it. This was our results after throwing together his outfit, shaving his head, and painting his makeup....Aang, the last airbender. Don't worry if you haven't heard of it yet, it will be a big movie next summer.

Sweet Pea was there to put the artist touches on

How'd we do?

Reflections 2009

2009-11-23T22:26:00.000-08:00

The PTA sponsors a local, state and national art contest. This year Drama took first place in Photography in the Intermediate division, grades 3-5. He now moves on to represent his school at the district level. Cross your fingers. Last year he made it to County.

I suppose it doesn't hurt when your mother is the program chair. Hey, I don't judge or have anything to do with his art. I just promote and get it turned it.

Pumpkin Time

2009-11-23T09:30:00.000-08:00

Big Daddy was out of town...again....when we decided to carve pumpkins. We carved them for Family Night on Monday...by Friday they were disgusting, molding, and gross. Hey, it's California. I think it was over 90 degrees that week. Oh well...at least we don't have to wear jackets when we trick or treat.

Our finished masterpieces

Here is the psycho mom!

I hope my children are financially well off in the future.

They are going to need lots of therapy.

San Francisco

2009-11-22T21:43:00.000-08:00

I was lucky to score a spouses invite to Big Daddy's company meeting in San Francisco again this year. Her Royal Highness ( Mom) was gracious enough to come and tend the kids, mostly manage Drama, while I was away. I flew to San Fran, took the Bart to the city, then a trolley to the hotel we stayed at, The Fairmont.

That night we got to see Wicked, the musical. It was fantastic. We saw it in L.A. about 3 1/2 years ago. This time we knew all of the song to sing along and had much better seats. Big Daddy said we were so close we could see the actor's blemishes.

Kendra Kassebaum beautifully played Glinda. She was no Kristen Chenowith, but lovely in her own interpretation of the role.

The next day I got to shop all by myself, yeah! I walked around Market street with money burning a whole in my pocket. Nordstrom..nothing. Anthropology...nothing...Macy's, Gap, H & M..nothing. Sweet Pea was having a heart attack at home. She couldn't believe I didn't buy anything at H & M. I decide those aren't "my people" meaning, not my style.

*Sigh*

I tried to use all of the available transportation the city has to offer. So I took a bus across town to the King Tut exhibit at the de Young Museum at the Golden Gate Park.

It was very interesting, although I was very tired. I think I fell asleep in one of the exhibit rooms for a few minutes. I remember Popsicle taking me to see part of this exhibit in the 70's. So much more technology now, the experts have figured out relationships through DNA. How about that, Family History.

After lunch, and some more museum and art exhibits, I headed back to Market street to make a purchase. I bought a terrific pair of Merrell shoes. I have been eyeing these shoes for months on the internet, and I bought them. Those of you who know my foot/shoe frustrations, you can appreciate the fact that I have to try on shoes before purchase. They are not the most attractive, but DANG, they are comfortable.

Big Daddy and I spent the evening together at the company dinner. I was beautiful. It was at the top of the Fairmont Hotel with a spectacular view of the city at sunset.

Big Daddy participated, rather willingly, in a group dance of "Single Ladies". Whoooaaaa! You should see him shake is can! Baby!! I've got to track down that video and post it soon.

Friday, our last day in the City, we went to Ghirardelli Square by trolley.

It was Big Daddy's first ride.

He has been in SF a few times, but always takes taxis. Boo! Taxis are for whimps...

or when you have a lot of luggage.

We met a friend for lunch and then walked around Ghirardelli Sqaure,

along the bay to the Green Marina. It was the perfect day... sunny but not hot. I think we walked about 3 miles, all in my brand, new shoes.

After a cupcake, we waited at the Hyde/Powell turntable to take the cable car back to the hotel. There are a lot of.....hum..strange people in San Francisco. Two of them tied themselves with chains and locks to a post. When loose, one of them play "Stairway to Heaven" on his guitar. Oh, no, not the Stairway. Ugggh! These are not young artists, the were performing hobos. Badly, performing hobos.

I wanted to give them money to stop playing and go away.

Once back at the hotel, we picked up our luggage, took a death cab to the wharf. I was talking to Lazy Boy on the phone and told him the ride was like being in his video game Need for Speed. But, we made it just in time to take a ferry across the bay to a little town called Larkspur.

Larkspur is a little town in Marin County, actually right next to the San Quentin prison. No convicts were seen. We spent the evening at a delightful dining outdoors at an Asian fusion restaurant, listening to an 80"s band. It was a great end to a great day. Oh, and I forgot, ice cream. That was pretty great too!

The next day, reality set in, we took a shuttle back to San Fran airport, flew home to be with our kiddos. Don't tell them, but I missed them.

BYU vs. SD Football

2009-11-22T20:57:00.001-08:00

We took the kids to the BYU football game in San Diego to watch them beat San Diego.

We started with a tailgate party in the parking lot with some of our

True Blue friends.

It turned out that we had spectacular seat for viewing...not so much for listening.

Our seats were next to the Aztec cannon and the first three times it scared me I swore. Sorry. We also had a great view of the team when they came out.

Here is a picture of quarterback Max Hall, nephew of virtual friend The Queen.

He is pumping his fists in support after I yelled positive and motivational slogans to him and the team. I am pretty sure I single handedly helped the Cougars win the game 38-28.

You're welcome.

Because we were sitting on the Aztec side, we had a front row view of the ancient cheerleaders who had come back for Homecoming. I was so impressed by the 2 old (older than me), fat (and much fatter than me) guys doing cartwheels throughout the game. Very inspirational

Sweet Pea and her friend ...future Cougars?!

And...One of our little Cougar fans who sat behind me. Man, could her mom yell!

After the game...more tailgating.

Our friends helped us surprise Big Daddy with a brownie cake for his birthday.

Thanks gang!

What Happened to October?

2009-11-03T21:24:00.000-08:00

Serious! What Happened? Well, a lot. Here are the exciting adventures of our October. Enjoy!

First weekend we spent with General Conference listening to the teachings and council of our church leaders. Good Stuff!

The following Saturday we spent in San Diego. I told everyone to be ready to spend the day in San Diego, but didn't tell them what we were doing. It was a lot of fun. It's about being in control, I guess. First stop, the San Diego Temple.

I can't believe Drama had never been there! Hum! The big kids had just been there the week before to do baptisms. Awesome! When it came time to taking a group snappy, Drama was a pill. Fine! We are not even going to Photoshop you in, you turkey!

Next stop, lunch in La Jolla. We found a yummy burger place in the village. They had wicked onion rings.

After that I took everyone to the Scripps Aquarium.

It was a lot of fun looking at the crazy fish, jelly fish, sea horse, and other aquatic life. The kids tried to catch a lobster. No luck!

Next stop....Old Town. I wanted to take a look at the newly remodeled Mormon Battalion. Surprise! It's not done yet! Oh well.

We found some fun things to look at, bought some rocks for Drama's "collection" (that's what we call a pile of rocks in his room) and a fiberglass parrot for my friend Wendy. Wow! The junk you can find!

Last stop, we headed back home and stopped for dinner at Roadside Grill in San Marcos. Yummy rolls. That's all I have to say. I guess I am becoming a dinner roll connoisseur.

Cub Scouts and Kisses

2009-10-08T20:29:00.000-07:00

Today Drama officially completed his year in Cub Scouts as a Wolf. Tonight he received his Wolf award. We worked very hard (yes...WE) and it's a good things mom's get a recognition pin as well as a kiss.

Congrats Drama! Now you are a BEAR!!!

Changes

2009-10-04T23:11:00.000-07:00

"How do you make a big change?

Change never takes place big. It is always little.

Alma 37:6-7 reads, "...by small and simiple things are great things brought to pass."

Well then, let's get on with it...whatever it is.

Princess Danell 2

2009-10-03T20:37:00.000-07:00

Ladies and gentlemen, announcing the second edition of me. I decided to move my creative stuff, photography, cakes, but mainly cards over to a new site: Currently Crafting... It's going to be fun. Well, at least for me. I will keep the family drama and other "real" life adventures here. I am trying to get Sweet Pea to build me an awesome creative blog. But, AP Econ, Algebra II and Chemistry are in line ahead of me. Darn! So, check out my other site and tell me what ya think!

Later Skaters!

Card Crazed

2009-10-01T10:57:00.000-07:00

I haven't worked much this week. That usually means time at my desk cutting, punching or stamping something while watching Bob Newhart episodes {I completely all the Mary Tyler Moore episodes on Hulu :( } But I haven't been feeling up to my perky self this week. So I have been surfing my inspirational paper blogs and so excited to use some of the new goodies I got a Jo-Jo's (Joann's) last week. Bought 3 new g-studio stamp sets for 60 cents each. Yep, those 40% off coupons are good on dollar stuff too!

Here are two related comments from my kids this week.

"Why do you do this if it makes you so crazy?"-Lazy Boy

(I get crazy when it's 10:30 pm and don't have the right color whatever)

Response: "It helps me relax and I need to be creative, other than laundry."

"You have so many card. Why don't you ever send some?"-Sweet Pea

Response: "Yeah, did you know it was Sis. H's (seminary teacher) birthday on Monday. I did and send her a lovely card. What did you do? Oh, that's right.

You slept in that day.Too bad! I heard there was cake too."

I know, how mean!

In anticipation of World Card Making Day this Saturday, I am posting some of my work. I hope to find some friend or strangers who will appreciate these....sob...sob...sob.

{followed by cackle, cackle, cackle!}

Enjoy!

Blake and Chandy

2009-09-30T22:30:00.000-07:00

Finally got some pictures of my baby brudder's wedding. Blake and Chandy were married on August 21st. They are now preggers! Yikes!!! I take a little credit for that. It was the honeymoon gift I got them.

Cute family picture

Notice Drama on the right.

He was a complete pill all day!

Happy Birthday Drama!

2009-09-29T11:12:00.000-07:00

Yesterday my baby, Drama turned 9 years old. He asked for 7 layer casserole for his dinner. I was tired from working (back in my favorite Kinder class) and mad at him for snubbing my pork tenderloin dinner the night before. So, he had hot dogs. Happy Birthday! I was in that kind of mood.

I did, however, scrounge up enough energy to throw a birthday party for him on Saturday. It was a smallish pool party with 6 his friends.

The temperature was over 95 degrees. The last, we hope, of the super hot days. We played shooting gallery with Legos and water guns, Hot Wheel races with water guns and everyone jump on Lazy Boy and try to drown him. I think that was the group favorite.

My favorite part was the birthday cake. Did something a little different this year. Everyone over 12 loved it. I made little "sliders" cakes for each of the boys.

They were made from cupcakes cut in half, a brownie "patty", "ketchup" frosting and color coconut for the "lettuce". They were actually quite yummy.

The party boys liked the ice cream sundaes better.

Love you Drama...xoxo Mommy

Biker Punks

2009-09-27T17:25:00.000-07:00

Saturday was Drama's birthday party. He will turn 9 tomorrow. Yikes! Can't believe he has lived, I mean, he is 9 already. We were scrambling about the house, getting ready for the party when a friend dropping off his son told us our house got tagged. I though toilet papered, which isn't too bad. But no...
This is what we saw

Big Daddy's company car egged

Chocolate sauce says: Let us ride!

(at least they spelled it right)

Yes the biker boys had made a visit to our house. Now I am sure many of you saw this coming. My neighbor the CHP called it. He has survelliance cameras and I need to see if he caught anything on film.

I felt so mad, then bad for Big Daddy and his car. I called the police and the dispatcher sent over a real police officer this time, a WOMAN! Yeah, baby! Told her the story, including last week's conversation with Officer No Help Whatsoever. She didn't know who he was and was shocked when I shared the following line from Office He Who Shall Not Be Named: "Well, they are teenage boys, and I would do the same think if I were them." No kidding! Officer HWSNBN actually said that.

Well, Officer Girlfriend is getting ready for a frontal assault. She is contacting the middle school principal on Monday, and their "Resource" Officer (a.k.a campus cop), then she is going to patrol the neighborhood from 3pm - 8pm everyday. Then, she said she will follow up with me. SIGH!!! Thank you!!!

Officer Spice Girl asked me some questions of her report. Middle name, place of employment, etc. She smiled when I said I worked for the school district and taught primary grades, and said, "A ha! That's why! You can't rationalize with these kids. They are punks. Don't talk to them any more. I will take care of it." BAM! Thank you! She gave me her card with her number and the minute I see anyone, she gets a call and will come right over. After that, I felt better. After Big Daddy was able to wash off the car without damage, I felt much better, and was ready to party.

During church I thought about making cookies and leaving them for the biker punks, kind of a peace offering. But then, I thought about putting Exlax in the baked goods. Just keep fighting that little devil sitting on my shoulder.

Autumn, or A trip to the Sun

2009-09-23T19:00:00.000-07:00

I have had the last day or two without work. I almost feel guilty doing laundry and dishes. Sheesh! I actually got a few minutes to work in my craft room. Please note: Said room is also a computer room, dog napping area and kid mess hangout. I finished a couple of cards I have been thinking about doing...just in time for fall.

Only problem, fall failed to show up. It was 104 today, and we don't live in Vegas or Death Valley. We are pretty much over the hot weather, and looking forward to more appropriate football weather ( BYU vs. SD---Oct 18th!!!!). I give the weather gods permission to leave the heat until Drama's bday Water Palooza on Saturday. After that, I expect, NO, I DEMAND cooler temperature!

Politically Correct

2009-09-22T22:43:00.000-07:00

I have a hot button when it comes to a few things. One of them is the dirt hill at the end of my cul-de-sac. It use to be landscaped until some stupid middle school boys decided it was a great place to ride their bikes. Last week I got really tired of asking nicely, pointing to the sign that says "No bicycle riding in this area", and yelling a said dumbos. I got so feed up I called the Sheriff's department. While waiting for Officer $(#&% to show up, idiot boy #3 asked if he could ride up the hill (that is almost destroyed) until the cops come. I said, NO! He asked why not. I asked if he was retarded. Can you say that anymore? I thought it appropriate. I didn't think he was actually retarded, but perhaps his mental capacity had come to a halt. This boy has the audacity to act as if he was offended by my comment. No, I think just a few too many fall off the bike onto your head, son.

As for the police officer, don't even get me started. I think I called him a whimp or woosey to his face. "Stay tuned to another episode of Crazy Lady, same channel, same time next week"

Update: No bike riders for a week now. Maybe the word got out that the neighborhood witch actually called the cops. Hopefully the landscape will return.

Blog Candy

2009-09-14T12:51:00.000-07:00

Everyone likes candy. I love those nasty, gooey, orange slices rolled in chunky sugar. I can feel the cavities forming now. However, I also love blog candy. If you like free goodies, and who doesn't, check out this website to enter for a free Halloween crafty giveaway. I think these are all sugar free, darn! www:tashasdesignworld.blogspot.com

Outliers

2009-09-10T16:40:00.000-07:00

I am reading this book "Outliers", fully recommended and partially read aloud by my husband to put me to sleep. Actually, it is a really great book. If you read "Freakanomics", you'll enjoy this one. Anyways, the author takes a different look at how some people have become successful.

“It is not the brightest who succeed,” Gladwell writes. “Nor is success simply the sum of the decisions and efforts we make on our own behalf. It is, rather, a gift. Outliers are those who have been given opportunities — and who have had the strength and presence of mind to seize them.”

I am beginning to think a little more about my children's success. It's too late for me. I should have really gone for that theater actor bit. Alas....

Back to the kids. Sweet Pea is a senior, almost too late for her too. Lazy Boy is, well Lazy. That leaves Drama. The boy began 3rd grade this year. He has already submitted his academy award clip to the committee. That is a separate post that will come later. This is an actual quote from Drama last month after church, or maybe during:

"All the colors in my imagination are gray because I am bored."

Who talks like that?

I tell everyone "I am grooming Drama for greatness". I have no idea what that will be, but it will include the following:

4th Grade- Student Council, piano, Scouting-Wolf Rank, Little League

5th Grade - Student Council, Middle School Band( Instrument of my choice), Scouting-Weblos Rank, Little League

6th Grade- Band, piano, Student Body member, Scouting-11 year old Rank, Little League MVP

7th Grade- Band piano, Student Body member, Scouting-Tenderfoot/First/Second Class Scouting Rank,Travel Ball team, Debate Team

8th grade-Band, piano, Student Body member,Star/Life Scouting Rank, Travel Ball team, Debate Team

9th Grade-Band, piano, ASB Freshman President, Eagle Scout,JV baseball, Debate Team, Math Club President, Seminary 100 % attendance and Scripture Mastery

10th Grade-Band, piano,Seminary 100 % attendance and Scripture Mastery ASB Sophmore Class President, JV baseball, Debate Team, Math Club President,Drama Club, Chess Club.

11th Grade-Band, piano, Seminary 100 % attendance and Scripture Mastery, ASB Junior President, Varsity baseball, Debate Team, Math Club President, Drama Club, Chess Club, Honor Society.

12th Grade-Band, piano, Seminary 100 % attendance and Scripture Mastery, ASB Senior President, Varsity baseball, Debate Team, Math Club President, Drama Club, Chess Club, Honor Society, Jazz Ensemble

If we stick to the plan, he MAY be able to get into BYU-Honduras. Then we have a whole separate plan for post high school. Stay tuned. Poor kid. He doesn't stand a chance.

70 Sucks

2009-09-08T18:33:00.000-07:00

September 1st was my dad's 70's birthday. For his birthday I gave him a jar full of suckers...70 sucks. But I don't think it does for him. He continually amazes me. He doesn't act or look much like 70, or at least what 70 years old use to look like. Here he is blowing out his 7 decade candles with Drama.Popsicle is funny in many ways. He has a great sense of humor, as do almost everyone in my family. That's why Big Daddy married me. Popsicle is a car guy. He drives a wicked sweet Porsche, which I have NEVER had a ride in, let alone drive. He owns almost any and every tool every made. In fact, if he can't find a tool he is looking for, he'll go and buy a new one. I am sure Home Depot has him on their preferred customer list.

He is very particular about his lawn and yard. When I was younger, he would spend each Saturday mowing, trimming and pruning his lawn. That was followed by the "hosing down of the street". He would probably get arrested for this now. In fact, maybe he still does this. Don't tell the DWP. Anyways, he puts on his blue Vans, much like Mr. Rodgers did. Then rolls up his jeans and turns on the hose full blast washing the driveway and gutters clean. Squeeky clean. cement.

My kids think he is so cool. He has cool toys and does cool things.

Happy Birthday Popsicle. Here is to 70 more years!

Back in the Saddle Again

2009-08-22T10:16:00.000-07:00

Nope, not as a cowboy, but Kindergarten teacher. Kind of the same stuff happens, alot like wrangling wild ponies. I have a long term subbing assignment while the school is hiring a teacher for a new class of 4 1/2- 5 year olds. In case you have forgotten, they are BABIES! Yikes. The first day, not so bad. They came with mommies and daddies for 1 1/2 hours. We read a story, made an art projects, sang some songs. Great!

Day 2 is when the crap hits the fan. I thought there would be more crying, whaling and gnashing of teeth, but not so much. But for these little guys, 3 pm could not come fast enough. Me too! We had to made 2 group runs to the bathrooms, learn how to line up, find our names on the table. Real tough stuff.

Day 3...."Yes, you have to come to school every day. If I am here, so are you." (direct quote) "I know you are tired, I am too." "Child A, keep your hands off of everyone." Oh, and my personal favorite, that didn't actually happen to me, but to another K teacher. Child:" You big, fat coconut head"- directed at the teacher. That child is lucky she didn't have her arm ripped off.

Day 4....I have 4 children held hostage after school so that I can tell their parents what knuckle heads they are (the parents AND their child). Most are doing much better. One not so much.

Later that night, Back-to-School Night with parents. I get to introduce myself and tell them I am only the temporary teacher. That is not a big hit. Interesting thing, once you meet the parents, you can appreciate the child, good or bad. Aaah! That's why that child is so sweet and brilliant, or...just the opposite. Poor babies.

Day 5....I called in sick. Not really sick, just out. For good reason. My baby brother got married. Yeah! And I totally needed a break from the class from hell. And no, it's not just me. My good friend substituted for me and later called to tell me that was the worst class she had ever seen in her life, and yes, something is very wrong with that child. Hearing that made me feel sane and sick to my stomach all at one. We"ll for now, off to the reception to party with my family. Photos and details of that later. Can you believe I forgot to bring a camera? Scheesh!

Back -To-School

2009-08-14T20:43:00.000-07:00

Introduction: This entry could go either way. But, I will save opinions for a day when I feel the fight has returned. Today I still feel icky.

It's "Back-to-School" season already. The kiddos are excited to move on to their next adventure. Drama meet his new 3rd grade teacher, Mr. X. His first male teacher. This could be a good thing. I told Drama that when he has to tell about himself, share that he is "loquacious". He totally is, and he knows it too.

Lazy Boy begins high school. Once again, it could go anyway. In his mind, he is all that and a bag of chips. He could be, just needs to act on that. BE BRAVE LAZY BOY, BE BRAVE!

Sweet Pea is a Senior! Hooray!!! We'll see what kind of shenanigans she gets into. Oh, you rascally ACT's! You silly college applications!

Back to school season always includes a shopping trip for supplies. Of course, we forgot ours at home, so we guessed. I have been doing this long enough to guess at 3rd grade needs. And it doesn't include Wii games.

I took the boys to Walmart this afternoon. I shopped for school stuff and they played video games. That's about right. It's not like that haven't done that all day, every day this summer.

The Walmart in our town has been under construction for a few months. It is slowly transforming into a (note: please read with booming echo voice) SUPER WALMART!

Every time I walk into that place, it's changed. The this is over here, that that is over there. YIKES! You just can run in anymore and grab a gallon of milk. However, I will wander around until I figure out where I am for fully stocked shelves. That was a pet peeve of mine. Nothing was every there. Always out of stock. And now the isles are wide and luxurious, just like when Kramer repainted the stripes on the highway. But for now, still empty.

I have badmouthed Walmart and even boycotted for while because I couldn't stand the retardedness ( I know, neither grammatically or politically correct) of it's employees and customers. It seemed the lowest common denominator ended up in the check out counter in front of me. I am a woman of very little patience when it comes to shopping. But now, I must face the facts that I will be shopping a lot at the Walmart. It's just too convenient and cheap to not shop there. I just have to: 1) not be in a hurry; 2) take deep breaths in line; 3) take some happy pills before shopping; and 4) don't engage in conversation or disagreements with other customers or employees.

So, with a forced smile, I say "Welcome Walmart".

BEST rolls ever!

2009-08-09T20:21:00.001-07:00

Our new (to us, anyways) dining room set arrived Friday night. Big Daddy bought it from a friend. Merry Christmas to me, XOXO-Thanks Honey. Let's just say it's vintage. Check out the chair covers. I'm not sure which year it was made, but I am guessing late 70's from the green velvet seat covers.

The dining room has previously been known as "the bowling alley" and needed a fresh start. I thought it would be great to cook a big Sunday dinner to inaugurate our new table. So, green salad, steamed broccoli, baked potatoes, steak and THE BEST ROLLS EVER! The meal was pretty good, but the rolls were fantastic! I have made these rolls about 20 times and they have never tasted so......heavenly. Huge, fluffy, sweet bread. Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus. I had to keep telling everyone, "Excuse me, but these are the best rolls ever!" They all agreed.

I think I figured out the secret.....fresh yeast.

Happy to share, only wish I had smell-vision.

Lion House Rolls

Ingredients:

2 cups warm water (110-120 degrees)

2/3 cup non fat dry milk (instant or non-instant)

2 tablespoons dry yeast

1/4 cup sugar

2 teaspoons salt

1/2 cup butter, margarine or shortening

1 egg

5 1/2-6 cups flour

Directions

1-In large bowl of electric mixer, combine water and milk powder, stir until dissolved.

2-Add yeast, then sugar, salt, butter, egg, and 2 cups flour.

3-Mix on low speed of mixer until ingredients are wet, then 2 minutes at medium speed.

4-Add 2 cups more flour; mix on low speed until ingredients are wet, then for 2 minutes as medium speed. (Dough will be getting stiff and remaining flour may need to be mixed in by hand).

5-Add about ½ cup flour and mix again, by hand or mixer.

6-Dough should be soft, not overly sticky, and not stiff.

7-(It is not necessary to use the entire amount of flour.)

8-Scrape dough off sides of bowl and pour about 1 T.vegetable oil all around the sides of the bowl so it is covered with oil.

9-Cover with plastic wrap and allow to rise in warm place until double in size.

10-After dough has risen, sprinkle cutting board or counter with flour and place dough on floured surface.

11-Roll out and cut rolls in desired shape and size.

12-Place on greased (or parchment lined) baking pans.

13-Let rise in warm place until rolls are double in size (about 1 to 1 ½ hours).

14-Bake at 375 for 15 to 20 minutes or until browned.

15-Brush with melted butter while hot.

Vegas

2009-08-04T12:09:00.001-07:00

This weekend Big Daddy and I took the kiddos for a quick trip to Vegas. We say Vegas, but it's actually Henderson, Nevada. Doesn't quite have the same ring to it. We had to stop first to pay homage to my Grandmother. She is 91 and sharp as a tack. She has lived in a home care for about 3 years now. She can't quite get around like she use to, but man, does she know what is going on. The first thing she asked us is if we had heard about the supreme court justice appointment. I hope my mind is that clear in 45 more years.

The next day we went out to Lake Mead. Now, I know what you are thinking, "GROSS!" It's really not that bad. The bad part was trying to get the skiis into the water. The lake is about 100 feet low in water level. It makes for interesting scenery, but hard to launch toys into the water. But, easy peasy, it was done and we had a terrific time.

Here is the Poodle (who actually isn't a poodle at all. That's our "pet" name for him) enjoying some Dt. Coke and my chair.

Sweet Pea and her friend Bran Flake enjoyed the delightful combination of Dr. Pepper and Chocolate Cupcakes.

Me and Drama getting ready to "tear it up".

You will see no pictures of Big Daddy or Lazy Boy. Someone was too busy taking pictures of this:

Someone flew onto the lake, dropped off a passenger then left. Who CARES!

In his defense, Big Daddy was a mess. He was stressed out about getting the skiis ready, staying up the night before, worrying about launching and finally, melting in the 116 degree weather.

I had a grand time. Picnic-good, water toys-good, listening to the squeals of delight coming from your children=priceless.

We left when it got really hot and went back to Grandma's house to swim.

Good times, good times.

Ladies that Lunch

2009-08-04T11:58:00.000-07:00

I have finally gotten to the point in my life that I can be a "Lady that Lunches". When I was first married, had small children and worked full-time, I dreamed of a life of leisure. It's 20 years later and life is good. I am semi-retired (hahaa!), the kids are almost self-sufficent (can dial 911) and I usually have a couple bucks to buy a taco and Dr. Pepper.

Last week I "lunched" with some of my lady friends. I am fortunate to know some of the most talented, compassionate, and thoughtful ladies around. We spent 2 hours talking about politics, food (of course), our children, and everything under the sun. I appreciate these opportunities because it keeps me from going crazy, stimulates my brain, and reminds me how blessed I am.

Until next time,

Thank you ladies!

Susie Q and Me

Sonja and Susan

Laura and Vicki

Happy Independence Day

2009-07-28T18:12:00.000-07:00

I know, it was like forever ago. But, it's been a slow summer, no deaths lately and nothing to blog.

Here is Big Daddy, me and Drama on the 4th at a friends swim party. Notice how Drama is strategically placed? I'm no dummy.

Fun Jerry tried to see how much water he could get out of the pool

Drama going down the slide.

Lazy Boy doing what he does best.

Sweet Pea and the party hosts, the G-bomb.

2009-07-13T22:04:00.000-07:00

Dear Mr. Marriott,

This letter is to inform you of my great disappointment over my most recent stay in your hotel. My mother, sisters and I were guests of the J.W. Marriott in Palm Desert in June. It is a tradition for the ladies to get together and relax. Unfortunately, your staff and policies made it difficult for us to engage in any enjoyable activity.

Upon arrival we immediately set out to the pool area to cool off and begin decompressing from our stressful lives. As we reached the pool, we were stopped by security personnel, who asked to see inside our purses and bags. I sir, am not in the habit of displaying my personal and private articles to just anyone. Not only was my bag looked at, it was thoroughly examined for contraband. What were these illegal good imported onto the Marriott property? Water bottles, a bag of grapes and a box of crackers. How dare us!

We immediately went to the front desk to find out what this new policy was and why. We were told no food items or liquid beverage purchased outside the property could be brought into the pool area. Since we have been guests several times, we were shocked and astonished that such a ludicrous policy exists. Then to find out that the policy exists only on weekends, when guests are charged 2 1/2 times the weekly rate, merely infuriated us. Your desk manager offered us a paltry $50 to spend at the pool grill. That would cover the costs of 3 lunches and 2 sodas for the 3 days we were there. What of those with special dietary needs that did not include beer or soda?

As we watched the employees, I was very dissapointed, again, in the performance of their job. One women cleaning around the pool dumped out drink cups on the pool deck, carelessly getting our personal effects wet. Another pool security was rude and demeaning when I asked why Ipods were not allowed at the pool.

Later that evening we discussed this matter again with your night manager, Brian. He suggested that the hotel was looking out for themselves. Mr. Marriott, as the guest, I would expect your staff to look out for me. Myself and my group are not college age "Spring Breakers" nor party people. We are middle aged women. We were simple looking for a nice, comfortable place to enjoy one another's company. At no time did anyone apologize for the intrusion or inconvenience of our stay. You have stated ,"I want our associates to know that there really is a guy named Marriott who cares about them…" I don't feel as if you care about me, Mr Marriott.

Mr. Marriott, as a Reward Member and Property Owner, I am thoroughly disenchanted with your company, property and employees. I will not return to this site again. There are other place to stay and spend my money.

Sincerely,

The Princess,

HRM- Noni,

Darling Sisters

P.S. I am attaching some photographs so that you may see our disappointment and dissatisfaction for yourself.

Look how emaciated and hungry we were.

How could we possible relax in this atmosphere?

We were almost brought to tears.

Here we are struggling to smile after a frustrating day around the pool.

This was the desert I ate in order to elevate my painful memories of the day.

p.s.

Thanks to Mom, Kel and Jen for making my bday fantastic.

Love you girl!

Mary Tyler Moore and the Original

2009-07-09T01:15:00.000-07:00

We have been without television for about a month now. Not too bad. No Michael Jackson news bulletins, etc. I have been catching up on my favorite 1970's show "The Mary Tyler Moore Show".

I was watching episode 19 the other day on Hulu, when I made an amazing discovery. Rhoda had the first Snuggie.

Sweet Pea actually caught that one. So, for those of you who thought you were so cool in your electric blue warm suits, (K.P.)

MTM had you by 35 years!

(and Rhoda's had stunning pockets and white trim!)

2009-07-05T01:45:00.000-07:00

BLURG!

7 Things

2009-06-30T15:40:00.000-07:00

I have a blogging friend "The Queen". We haven't actually met, so she could be one of the following Queens:

Latifah

Musical

Defender of the Faith

Elizabeth

Anywho...she has tagged me and I accept the 7 Things Challenge. Now I am to follow some rules. Everyone knows I am not good at that. I am suppose to share 7 things about myself that nobody knows. That is going to be tough because I have a hard time keeping my mouth closed and opinions to myself, so everything is pretty much out there already. So, here goes....

1. I always wanted to play the cello or drums. The cello is so sophisticated, completely unlike me. The drums are so Karen Carpenter.

2. I don't like people touching me. Specifically, I do not enjoy double cheek kisses or when Big Daddy rubs the beds of my finger nails. Totally creeps me out. It's ok now, he knows better. However, I love sincere hugs!

3. I remember faces and names of almost everyone I have met. Does that make me a great friend? Sometimes, it's just one or the other,( face or name) but usually both. It makes me crazy when I can't place someone.

4. Child Protective Services interviewed me for child abuse, my own child. That was funny! The social worker left wondering why I had not actually beaten my child. If you knew Child X then, you would understand.

5. I am not as mean as I use to be. For those of you who haven't known me long, you think it's bad now....you did not want to be around then. Actually, I am just opinionated and judgmental. Hum...let's go back to mean.

6. I say I don't like chocolate, but I do. I just prefer fruit and other flavors more.

7. I am a freak of ... well, I haven't decided. It use to be fabric and wallpaper. Now I think it's paper. I have boxes of paper in all shapes and sizes. I love the patterns and colors. So, paper freak it is!

OK. Now I pass this challenge on to some of my favorite peeps:

Go for it gals! I want to read some juicy stuff.

Blog Posts

2009-06-30T11:57:00.000-07:00

With all of the funerals and services I am scheduled to attend, I haven't had time for a new post.There is Farrah, MJ and now Billy. Hopefully, things will slow down tomorrow.

Season Over

2009-06-18T00:04:00.000-07:00

Finally! Little League season is over. As the reluctant team mom, I was never so happy. I swear on a See's candy box, I will never volunteer to be team/room mom again. Too much pressure! Oye!Drama's team had a little party and of course, I volunteered to make a cake. Not just any cake, gotta have a theme....

Drama took a taste of his while I wasn't looking. Can you find his???

This was my first tiny try at fondant. It scares me. Kinda like the Real Housewives of New Jersey. But it was kind of fun and not too difficult to work with. Probably also like the R.H. of N.J.

In fact, they're similar, the ladies and the cake...something is not quite right.

Lazy Boy gets promoted

2009-06-17T23:37:00.001-07:00

You have never seen a happier boy.

Last Friday we celebrated Lazy Boy's completion of middle school. It was difficult, but he managed to get through it, alive. In our neck of the woods you don't graduate from middle school. You get "promoted". Some parents didn't get the memo. 13 year olds showed up in tuxes, limos, etc. I guess promotion is the highest standard in their home. To us, this is but a stepping stone. There is high school, missions, college, grad school, etc. I am overachieving for my children in my dreams. I tell everyone I am grooming Drama for greatness. Heaven knows I waited too long to start with Lazy Boy and Sweet Pea.

But, back to his big day.

This was one of the very few days that he asked me what he should wear. Sweet Pea and I both said the same thing,"Ya gotta wear the pie hat." My mother, HRM, calls it a "pork pie hat". I don't know why, but she is old skool Sinata style. She knows

these kinds of things, so we just go with it.

But he looked stellar...almost. We sat about 30 feet behind him and I couldn't get his attention, so I texted him "tuck in your shirt". He laughed.

HRM, a.k.a.Noni, The Princess, Lazy Boy and Big Daddy

Lazy Boy and friends, Chris and Alan

they are Mexican, but need better Mexican names.

I shall call them Cristobal and Alejandro.

Geez...I am a giant. Wait a year, he'll be taller than me, and hopefully bigger.

Going..going...gone!

2009-06-16T17:10:00.000-07:00

I have been thinking and threatening for months and finally got Big Daddy on board. As of 13 days ago we disconnected our selves from the electronic world. We did the unthinkable, we disconnected FIOS TV!
I hated paying all that money to Verizon. So no more reruns of Seinfeld, but really, they are all memorized in my head. Then to all insult to injury we disconnected our our home LANDLINE. Sorry to those of you who can no longer call me on a whim. If we were that good of friends, you would have my cell number. Consider this a "defriend" notice.

Many of you thought I would have been murdered in my sleep by my children, but they are on board. Why, I have no idea. They were tv junkies, and now, not. I even came home the first day to see Lazy Boy sitting in his usual cartoon spot on the couch reading a book. ON HIS OWN! Can you believe that?

Why did I wait so long? Big Daddy wanted to watch his games and races, but since he is never home, he came to his senses. As for the phone, everyone but Drama have one. And who really wants to talk to an 8 year-old? It is so quiet at home. I love it. I get to listen to Sweet Pea play the million $$$ piano and lessons we've paid for.

How do I do it? Here is the secret-internet tv. Most everything can be found on the internet and it's free, which ya'll know is my M.O. Big Daddy is a genius (Drama even says he wants to be a computer genius like him when he grows up). He connected an older Macbook to our tv and Hulu. You've seen those commericals on tv with Alec Baldwin. Most of my "programs" can be found there FREE! Once again, streaming into my bedroom. I have watched everything from Royal Pains pilot (kind dumb), Chuck and my current obsession- reruns of Mary Tyler Moore show. There are 72 shows to watch, so I am pacing myself to savor them over the summer.Our other hook up is Netflix, which has an good online catalogue. I can hardly pay $9 a month.

We stream old classics and tv series to the flatscreen in our bedroom. So far I've watched "Jane Austen Book Club" (liked the book better), Persuasion (1994), The Office with Ricky Gervais, and a terrific documentary about Glen Tilford (from Squeeze) etc.

The only shows I am missing are Graham Norton and some other sordid BBC-America shows.

I was worried about Conference and other church stuff on BYU channel. But being so righteous, the powers that be have created a BYU internet channel just in time. Coincidence? I think not.

So here is to internet tv! By the way, I still have way, WAY too many televisions in my house. Anyone need a 36 inch tv as perhaps an endtable?

Favorite Things- What's for Dinner?

2009-06-09T10:45:00.000-07:00

My life is pretty chaotic, mostly by my own design. I say "Sure" to most requests before I think about it. It's the Mormon Guilt Factor, I believe. It's not like I am trying to be a martyr. I usually think I can do everything, or want to try. Recently I have gotten way, WAY over my head. Room Mom-"Sure", Little League Team Mom-"Sure", PTA whatever "SURE", etc. You get the picture. So, outside of my home, I am amazing, or competent. Inside, disaster! The only one thing that works is meals. I have a system to planned meals so that I have answers for:

A) "What's for dinner?"

B) Didn't we just eat Macaroni and Cheese 2 nights ago

C) My brain is fried, what's in the freezer?

A couple of years ago my friend Leslie (Hi Leslie! ) had this fabulous dinner calendar on her frig. I CASE'd it and made it my own. CASE stands for Copy And Steal Everything. I am not a super creative person, but I CASE everything. Why re-create the wheel?

double click picture to see close up awesomeness

Anyone who has been to my kitchen has seen this on the frig. Sometimes I use it faithfully. Other times, like during WW III (Weight Watchers, 3rd round) , I put it away. Well, it's time to dust off the dinner menu and get ready for summer. Being the completely selfless person I am (that was our FHE lesson last night), I am sharing another "Favorite Things" with you, my friend.

What's for Dinner What's for Dinner princessdanell Dinner calendar

To download, go to the "More" tab next to Scribd above. Choose "Save a document". Don't choose print. It won't be the right size. Once you download each page you can print out each separately. I glued the calendar part to a 12 x 12 inch fancy schmancy paper, then laminated ("LAMINATED"-from Daddy Daycare). The months and meals also get laminated. Then, cut little squares of Velcro and attach to each day on the calendar and each meal gets the opposite side of the Velcro. Then I glued magnets on the back of the calendar.

The meals can be substituted for your families favorites. I found that my family eats about the same 30-40 things all the time. Some are seasonal, like chili and roast turkey. I keep extra meals and months in a baggie next to the refrigerator. Also, when I try a new recipe I always ask the family if it gets invited back. That doesn't happen so often. However, if it does, it gets it's own little square.

Tonight, Chicken Stir-Fry. What's for dinner at your house?

Pinewood Derby

2009-05-30T22:03:00.000-07:00

Yes, it's that time again. The smell of wood, the sound of a dremel, the screams of ...well, me.

"You are getting paint all over the table. Go upstairs and get some of that purple stuff under my sink. Why are you still standing there? Run, run, RUN!"

I hate projects. Actually, I hate my children's projects. They always wait until the last minute to tell me, "Oh Mom, where do you keep the 3 inch styrofoam balls? I need to make a DNA display tonight."

Our pinewood derby project went pretty smoothly this year. Big Daddy and Drama got started early, several weeks. Big Daddy used this as an excuse to purchase a new tool, a dremel. For those who don't know, a dremel is a small handheld rotary tool. It looks just like those drill/sanders they use in the nail salon. The dremel comes with 15 different accessories and a catalogue of a billion more. Lazy Boy was quite put out that his cars were all made without the use of electric tools. Just his lame mom trying to use a dumb coping saw.

Drama and I went to a special hobby store to buy paint, special shiny paint. It had to be green and blue. We asked Sweet Pea to utilize her made art skills and draw some "cool lines" with Sharpie. It made it very cool.

Making the final weigh in and adjustments.

After all the races, Drama didn't come in the top 3. I think our cars (a true family project) didn't have enough weight. But that's another story. He did, however, receive a certificate for "Best Detail"

Thanks Sweet Pea!

And The Winner Is. . . .

2009-05-25T21:56:00.000-07:00

The Maui Giveaway goes to ......The Queen. Yep. It's official, she won it fair and square. Email me an address and I'll drop your prizes in the mail-io. I was really hoping for one of my local peeps, so I could just drive it over. Oh well. That just proves what a giving and thoughtful person I am. Enjoy your highness! Maybe McFly will mellow with chocolate macadamians.

Thanks to all of the others:

There were 17 items in your list. Here they are in random order:

7-queen
17-queen
2-jennifer k
13-emily
11-audrey f
16- amber
14-jennifer k
5-laura p-h
9-mama snail
4-gay lynn a
1- emily w
12-kristen c.
3-amber m
8-kristen p
10-missy
15- laura b
6-angie a

Timestamp: 2009-05-26 05:06:25 UTC

Maui Giveaway....last chance

2009-05-23T11:26:00.000-07:00

Today is the last day to enter my Maui Giveaway. I noticed several names missing...Queen,K.P.,Laura,Vicki,etc. Sweet Pea is disqualified because she got her own stash of crap, including a beautiful ring purchased at the exclusive Kmart, where my personal episode of COPS was played out. I'll assign numbers tomorrow and drop them in the Random.org spinner.

My tan is beginning to fade, so I am out to the pool!
Good Luck!

Grandma Sycamore

2009-05-20T10:11:00.001-07:00

I really should change the name of this blog, "What the Princess is Eating Today". I just like to share good things with friends. In today's share bag (yep, I'm a Kindergarten teacher) is Grandma Sycamore Bread.

We discovered it about 6 years ago on a trip to Utah. My sister-in-law made us toast with GSB. TOAST. It was that simple. It was like eating cake. This is also the s-i-l that feeds her children ice cream for breakfast, so. . . We discovered it makes the most wonderful french toast. I am a breakfast girl and was jonesing for something yummy on Saturday and created this
Here is my secret recipe:
1 loaf Grandma Sycamore White Bread (has to be WHITE)
4 eggs
1/3 cup milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

Beat eggs, add milk. Add remaining ingredients until well combined. Soak each slice of bread in the egg mixture, allowing for full absorption. Cook on well greased (PAM or butter) until golden brown. Do it while the kids are still asleep so you can have one for yourself!

Now the bad news, can't get it south of Las Vegas. POOP! You Utah people just don't appreciate the goodness of purchasing GSB at Walmart or Costco. For this reason only, am I jealous of you. Now whenever I have a friend or family member traveling to visit, I try to make sure I acquire at least 5 loaves. I pay handsomely. BTW, thanks Michael for our last shipment. Still have 3 loaves in the freezer.

Enjoy

Alias

2009-05-16T19:35:00.001-07:00

Do you have an alias? When I return an item to the store, say Target, sometimes a signature is needed on the receipt. Why put my own name? Who is cross checking this stuff? Answer: No One. So why not use an alias? I have used my alias name for the past 4-5 years.

My alias is Cher Bono.

It's not like a I am huge fan. It's quick and easy to write.

Sometimes when I am feeling sassy,

I write Cher Bono-Allman.

Lulu's alias is Joan Rivers. She buys a lot of stuff from the Home Shopping Network, the Joan Rivers collection, so she feels a tie there.

What is your alias?

Blog Candy Give Away

2009-05-12T21:51:00.000-07:00

I am having Maui withdrawals. So, in order to make myself feel better, I am giving,

GIVING

away goodies. My first blog candy. I am so excited.....

Included in the prize package is;

Island Hula Honeys mug

Milk Chocolate macadamias

Hawaiian Flip Flop Keychain

Authentic Shell Necklace,

and

A Towel Card to Marriott's Maui Ocean Club

(the use of 2 towels)

But to be the lucky recipient of tokens of my Maui vaca, you can:

A) make a comment

B) sign up to be a follower

C) put me on your list of "fav" bloggers on your own blog

That is 3 chances to win, I mean, receive. Tell your friends, tell those who wouldn't make me crazy!

Giveaway will end on Saturday, May 23rd and winner will be announced May 24th.

Best Wishes!

XOXO

Aloha!

Day Fifteen

2009-05-12T21:01:00.000-07:00

Sayonara Maui

Last day (sigh). It had to end eventually. We decided to go out with a blast! Breakfast at the Gazebo with the Besties. Sooo much good food. I will miss it all. As soon as I get home, it's back to the WW plan. We waited, only 45 minutes this time, to get into the Gazebo. While we looked out onto the ocean, there was a pod of whales. How lucky were we. Everyone told us that it was too late for whales, but we saw a few, however, very far away.

White chocolate chip pancakes with killer Dream Whip topping

The Boss had bacon and eggs and a loaf of toast.

Pancakes with Dream whip topping, macadamians and coconut syrup.

Need a blood sugar check.

After breakfast, we checked out of our lovely resort and camped at the beach for a few hours.

Big Daddy rented a cabana on the beach for us next to our Besties.

It was lovely.

We had snowcones...

and a gor-juss view of Kaanapali beach.

Finally, the day, week and vacation had to come to an end.

On the way to the airport, the cloud formed and began to sprinkle.

I say it's Pele crying because we were leaving.

Aloha!

See you at home.

Day Fourteen

2009-05-12T20:31:00.000-07:00

Aloha Friday!

Our last full day in Maui. Boo-hoo. Big Daddy and I rented gear to snorkel. The first beach we went to, D.T. Fleming park/beach, about 8 miles from our resort, was cloudy and raining. No good. We drove to Napili beach and found a sweet spot, just below the Gazebo, the breakfast restaurant we are making famous.Although it was still cold, we braved the waves. We saw lots of fishies, coral and a Titlest golf ball wedged inbetween two rocks. Funny! How could I not think of Seinfeld? When we got out of the water, it was raining, horizontally. Awesome!

After snorkeling, we hit the pool with the Folks and Besties.

My favorite time at the pool or at the beach is 4-6 pm.

I guess its the way the sun is hanging low in the sky.

Beautiful.

For our last night out, we went to dinner with Momsie, Popsicle, the Fishing Guy, his wife and their daughter and her husband. Shwoosh!

We ate at the Plantation at the Kapalua golf course. Once again,

Beautiful.

If I were Oprah, and ya'll know how I feel about her, this is where I would live.

The greens overlooking Kapalua Bay.

Me and Momsie

Isn't she cute?

Since I won't see her on Sunday,

Happy Mother's Day!

XOXO

Aloha!

UPDATE

2009-05-10T22:29:00.000-07:00

I am a couple of days behind but had to update all the friends, family and fans.

Today was Mudder's Day and Big Daddy had the biggest surprise of all.

He knew how much fun I was having in Hawaii and guess what!?

He planned for us to stay another week! Is he the best or what!

See you in a week back at the farm!

Kids.....Grandma and Grandpa are still in charge.

Day Thirteen

2009-05-08T04:07:00.000-07:00

Aloha!

Another great day in paradise.

Big Daddy went golfing with Momsie and Popsicle's besties, Fishing Guy and their son-in-law. BD did ok. Poor Pop couldn't go because he hurt his back on Tuesday working out at the gym.

Silly Popsicle!

I didn't get down to the pool until after 9 am. It's soo hard to get out of bed when there are 3 different episodes of Law and Order on at the same time. However, I finally did and hung out at the pool with Momsie and Popsicle getting my tan on.

They are too cool. Reading and tanning. That's my heritage. Speaking of tans, can you believe Big Daddy's tan is better than mine?! I am blaming the genetics.

The Besties shopped and made a lovely bbq for us.

Da Boss cooking Hot links and Polish Sausage.

Lulu is so thoughtful.

They are the best!

After lunch, the Boss and Big Daddy played some more bocci ball. Lulu and I walked to the shops at the Hyatt while the Bocci Boys where kicking butt. Very pricey stuff! I window shopped and Lulu purchase some reasonably priced earrings.

After some practice, the Bocci Boys were in a tournament. Some other guess' wanted to take those bad boys on. Ha! They losed! (That's my native Hawaiian Pidgin lingo). In fact, The Boss and Big Daddy won the Marriot Maui Bocci Ball Tournament of 2009.

Bad Dudes!

I am thinking of having t shirts made in celebration. Next week they take on the winners of the Sheraton and the Hyatt. Not really. But the Bocci Boys did receive a coupon for a free pizza. Whooppee!

The Cutest Couple at the Pool!

For dinner, we ate at Bubba Gumps. I have been jonesing for coconut fried shrimp and my wish came true, with onion rings. Woowzers! Those were good.

After dinner we shopped, cuz that's about all there is to do. We bought some t shirts at a surf shop, then went next door to a new Barnes & Noble. After sifting through a couple of magazines, I came across a little blue book. It's called

Da Jesus Book

No kidding. The New Testament in Hawaiian Pidgin. Here is a sample page:

I could not make this up. Fo see yor sef, go to: www.pidginbible.org/

I was crying, and about peed my pants. Oh, good times!

Day Twelve

2009-05-08T03:55:00.000-07:00

Not much going on today. Hanging out at the pool with the Besties and Momsie and Popsicle. I bought a floatie last week at the ABC so everyday I have to drag it down to the pool. It's a good time.
Big Daddy has begun the countdown. "Only 4 more days" he says. "Shut up!" is my sweet reply.
We ordered pizza from Round Table and had Big Daddy's new favorite-Maui Zaui. Afterwards, we met the Besties at the owner's lounge for more cards-7 card gin. It seems it's the only game we all know. We messed around with the rules, but seriously, we need to learn more card games. Usually we play Phase 10, but we forgot it at home. So sad!

Day Eleven

2009-05-06T01:04:00.000-07:00

Happy Stinko-de-Mayo!

I have wanted to take the road to Hana for the last couple of trips to Maui. Big Daddy thought I would get sick and barf in the rental car so. . . we took a drive that wasn't so rough. We went with the Besties on highway 30 starting out at Lahaina in the morning. We drove past Kahana, Napili, Kapalua and Honolua, where we pulled over. We watched surfers and saw some giant turtles cruising around. Cool!

We continued along the Honoapilani Highway to some spectacular scenery.

On we went winding our way down a narrow highway, some places only one way. The locals drove like they could do it with their eyes closed. That was scary.

We found our way to Kahakaloa. Kahakaloa is a small isolated village at the end of a valley. The village is home to about 100 people and their homes, two lovely churches, and several roadside stands including Lorraine's banana bread. We followed the signs to her driveway and parked in her front yard. Lorraine greeted us and you could not find a friendlier person. She sold shaved ice, toasted coconut, banana bread with macs, and of course, coconut cream pie. We had it all.

Lulu, Lorraine and me.

Big Daddy and his coconut pie.

After we drove up the hill on the other side of the village, we stopped at a gift shop where we cruised then back on the highway were we saw cattle. The windy road continued past Kahului, where the airport is to Paia. Paia is a small coastal community on the northern shores of Maui a. An old sugar plantation village, Paia was filled with galleries, gift and clothing shops, and of course, food. We celebrated Stinko-de-Mayo at Milagro's resturant with nachos. How very appropriate, yes?

After the boys bought some t shirts, we were off again, back to Kahului to where-Krispy Kreme. But this time I was sick. I took a bite of one donut and took 2 1/2 home. Yikes. We got back to Kaanapali about 5:30 pm. I was wiped out. Driving around eating is sooo tiring.

Day Ten

2009-05-05T23:30:00.000-07:00

After yesterday, I HAD to work out at the gym. Followed that up with laundry and a run. Yep, a run. I hate running, but I did a little bit. Makes me feel like an athlete. Haha haa!

So excited I finished my second book yesterday, The Jane Austen Book Club. I recommed it to those of you who have read and enjoy Jane Austen books. Although the book itself only touches on her books and characters, it is helpful to have read some of her work. I had also read a second book, "Total Money Makeover", by Dave Ramsey. May I suggest not reading financial books while on vacation. Total bummer makeover!
Two books, you may say, big deal. Well, for some reason,I never, ever have time to finish a book. I have a stack of 8-12 books next to my bed waiting to be read.
My next book was a Sue Grafton. But I found a Janet Evanovich in the laundry room. So far it is hilarious.Read, had a bag of Maui chips and a sweet and tart smoothie. Life today is good, very good.
We got our first great photos of whales today.
A momma and baby whale splashing about.

Went to dinner with The Besties tonight. A new place for us Cool Cat Cafe. Had some scrumptious burgers and onion rings.

After dinner, we walked along Front Street, ran into some friends, and headed to the ABC. I found a fab wrap for Mom for Mother's day, a few gifts and of course, Big Daddy got his pair of Dt. Coke. Ahhh! Gotta love repetition.

Day Nine

2009-05-05T23:28:00.000-07:00

Happy Sunday!

We got all dressed up and drove to church this week. We attended sacrament meeting at the Lahaina 1st ward. Momsie and Popsicle got there early and saved us seats in the padded pew section. Church in Hawaii is fantastic. The people are so friendly and glad to have visitors, I hope.

One of the cool things about the ward building is the chapel. There are 10 ceiling fans running at different speeds. It is probably somebody's calling to keep them all at the proper speed. Sister Lakaulu likes the fan on medium speed, Brother Maalu likes the fan on high, etc. I want that calling.

It was fast and testimony meeting. The first lady to come to the pulpit was a visitor from Trinidad/Tobago. She had an excellent accent and was a Baptist in her previous live. Man, that was entertainment. Then another visitor from Utah shared his experiences visiting over the years, how caring and kind the ward had been to them. Very touching. Then a couple of local members spoke. It was so beautiful and thick with the spirit. That is, until a woman walked across the chapel and blew a huge bubble with her gum. It was hilarious! You got your highs and your lows.

After church we pretended we were Lutherans and went to breakfast with Momsie and Popsicle at this restaurant I had read about. It was a little drive to Napili where we waited an hour to eat at the Gazebo. It was a tiny, tiny little place that had about 12 tables.
The wait was worth it, although Momsie almost passed out, low blood sugar. Nothing a full leaded Coke and chips couldn't fix. Big Daddy had lunch while the rest of us had bacon and eggs. Pops and I shared a plate of macadamian pancakes topped with a mixture of Dream Whip and carmel sa,uce and coconut syrup. I can't believe I didn't fall into a sugar coma.Our view from the Gazebo

Popsicle, me and Momsie

Me and Big Daddy, with full bellies.

Day Eight

2009-05-05T23:06:00.000-07:00

Today was Saturday. Holy Cow! It's been a week. The local shopping center was holding a Maui Onion festival. That is code for onion rings. We ate at a few vendors all including Maui Onions. The onion rings were the best.

Day Seven

2009-05-05T22:57:00.000-07:00

Pool day.
Mom and Dad showed up this afternoon. Let the fun begin.
We had a beautiful view of a fabulous sunset from Dig Me beach.

Went to dinner with M & D, Lulu and the Boss at Leilani's. Our local favorite. I should change the name of this blog to "Eating Maui". Good heavens! I am going to come home HUGE and blow all my hard work.