TheCrankyCrane

Granola, Great for Your Get Up and Go

2012-02-19T06:35:00.000-08:00

When you are in the snacking mood, grab this granola.

I can't remember when granola became a staple in my house, but I think it was when oatmeal's health benefits became public knowledge. Now I have a handful of it everyday.   Full of healthy grains like sunflower, sesame, flax seeds, wheat germ, dried fruit, nuts and more. Combine one half cup granola with the same amount of plain yogurt for a delicious mid-morning snack.

Colleen’s Granola

10 cups old fashioned rolled oats
1 cup wheatgerm

½ lb.shredded coconut

2  cupsraw sunflower seeds
1cup sesame seeds
½cup flax seed

In a largebowl combine the above ingredients. Mix well.

In asaucepan combine the following ingredients:

1 cup oil
1 ½ cup brown sugar
1 1/2 cup water
½ cup honey
½ cup molasses
2 tsp each vanilla & cinnamon
1 ½ tsp salt

Heat untilsugar is dissolved, but do not boil. Pour syrup over dry ingredients and stir until well-coated. Spread into dripper pans or cookie sheetsabout ½ thick. Bake 12 min @ 300 thenstir and move to lower rack adding another tray on top rack and bake 12-15minutes longer. Keep rotating the pans until they have baked about 25-30 min.Cool. Add 1-2 nuts, raisins, craisins etc. May also use raw peanuts, but must add to oat mixture and bake with mix.

Not So Nice Knife

2012-02-19T06:30:00.000-08:00

Occassionally I bake bread, goodies and dinner and more. See, I even bake knives. As I was taking a batch of bread out of the oven I noticed a shiny black object. It was a nicely melted knife on the bottom. Great! This is gonna stink and be impossible to remove. After the oven had cooled down, I was able to easily pop it right out.

Finding a matching knife in the drawer it was fun to see the original shape. The edges of the new and not so improved one are a little sharp, so it has seen its better days. Thanks for the many years of service you rendered and sorry for your untimely demise. I'm just glad it wasn't one of my new expensive ones.

Hold On to Hope

2012-01-28T05:29:00.000-08:00

One winter a few years ago when Allan was going for an oil change, he dropped me off at the river walkway so I could get my exercise. We both thought he would only be thirty minutes, but it ended up taking much, much longer. It began to rain, then snow and get quite miserable. Too wet and cold to be outside, I took shelter in this tunnel under the road.

As I walked back and forth at least a hundred times, waiting for Allan, it made me think of a neighbor recovering from back surgery who said she was finally seeing the 'Light at the end of the tunnel.' I thought of other friends and family facing trials and challenges and how seeing that light truly is promising, because it is so bright and inviting. Hope was there.

With each walk back and forth from one end to the other, I was able to observe different things along the way I had missed previously. Hope is a wonderful healer and helps us look forward to better times.

May you hold on to hope while on your own pathway toward the 'LIGHT'. Keep faith in our Savior and know he is there waiting and willing to help carry the load.

Me and Martha

2012-01-11T17:38:00.000-08:00

This time of year I look back in my pictures to group and see what happened recently. The Martha Stewart show was a stop I made last year and you need to see how fun it was. After being checked and cleared we sat in a big room full of other fans until it was time to line up. After walking down lots of hallways we entered the studio. Everything was prepped and in place for the show. Lots of workers were busy getting every angle and spot perfect. Seconds before the show began filming, Martha came out.

Our seats were in the far corner, but we didn't care. Cameramen hovered around 'The Queen' so there were times only their backs could be seen. We had been prompted to cheer at certain signals and hush at others. Technicalities are important and the audience is dispensible. It was a great place to visit and get a free October magazine.

Stories Survived to be Shared

2011-12-30T13:06:00.000-08:00

I did it! I wrote twelve stories for the Twelve Days of Christmas, complete with pictures and sent them to my children in a decorated binder to read each night. This was part of focusing on a Christ centered Christmas. When I missed the "Best Christmas Ever" story deadline to the local newspaper, I decided to write them anyway.

The stories included religious, memorable, funny and from mine and Allan's youth. I asked the children as they read them, to think about their own experiences and have their parents tell about some of theirs. A great deal of missed opportunities are passed by when we want to share, but don't. This was my chance to do it and leave a legacy for my grand children to enjoy year after year.

They were introduced to some of my best and worst, longest and shortest, funnest and most boring Christmases. This was only the beginning. There is more.

When we begin to write about our youth or past, the flood gates open and many things we had forgotten come to mind. Take the time to write about some of your great events and share them with your family. Questions they didn't think to ask will be answered. Someday they will be glad you did and so will you.

Drilling Down on December

2011-12-15T12:55:00.000-08:00

My accountant taught me how to drill down to decifer finances. I'm drilling down on what festivities to attend during the month. A Sounds of the Season choir performance, first time ever seeing the Forgotten Carols and a Christmas breakfast, lunch and four dinner events are all done.

Still on the list are a seeing a live nativity, It's a Wonderful Life or some other play, a Trees of Diversity display, a river cruise, two weddings and a Christmas Carole Sing-Along. No wonder I sleep like crap and fly off the handle over little or nothing.

Then there is the book, 'A Christ Centered Christmas,' I picked up. It made me feel guilty that I was devoting too much time to fluff. Jesus is the reason for the season. 3am every morning like clockwork, I spend thirty minutes reading the Four Gospels, about his birth and the great gifts He gives us 24/7.

Don't forget the twelve velvet Christmas stockings I bought two years ago to fill and give to the needy. They're still empty and waiting for employment.

At work I secretly filled up the 'Food Bank' trash can, because it was empty. Now more has been added to it. Yeah! Next are treats for the gang and gifts for others.

GIVING, Giving, giving
Every day you are living.
You'll never have a misgiving
When you are generously giving.

Handicrafts for the Holidays

2011-12-02T15:28:00.000-08:00

Surprisingly we had the kids making crafts on Thanksgiving. These turkey pumpkins with fancy paper tails kept the young men busy. Afterwards turkey shaped table favors made from Oreos, corn candy and sprinkles were cute as could be. Too bad we forgot to take a photo. I'm sure the Oreo website has a sample.

The highlight of a holiday is also playing board games. Apples to Apples Junior is our current favorite. I hate to throw the turkey pumpkins out. Maybe I'll make penguins out of them dressed in Christmas colors.

Get ideas for Christmas crafts from the internet, magazines and friends. You will be glad you did.

Thank a Crank

2011-11-24T06:13:00.000-08:00

I often get cranky, when there is so much pressure to perform for Thanksgiving Day. It is mostly created by my own doing because I want a perfect table, delicious food, great interaction with family, nice clean house and much, much more. It seldom happens, but when the day is done, I can't deny that it went well and I need to quit crying over spilled milk.

Many are the past Thanksgiving Days that I never shared 'MY' plan with my family. They didn't know my standard or were too busy with their own lives to care or help which I really needed. When all is said and done, it isn't that it was perfect in my eyes, but was I pleasant enough to enjoy them and the time we were together?

Just let it go girl. There are too many quiet days, alone to ruin the ones we have together. Make that a rule. Brand it into your thick brain, that no matter what happens: Crispy over fried turkey, spills on the tablecloth, hard rolls, oven not working, tired from lack of sleep or more than you can remember; get over it and 'Behold your little ones!'

From Boston to Bunker Hill and Back

2011-11-08T15:17:00.000-08:00

My first visit to Boston was so brief I have to go back. There was only time to walk the Freedom Trail from the Park Street Church to Bunker Hill. Along the way we saw Paul Revere's statue and home, Granary Burial Ground, Old City Hall, State House and more. We crossed the Charlestown Bridge, caught a glimpse of the harbor, USS Constitution, the Green Beltway and wow, what a walk it was.

We followed the red painted three mile pathway all over town. A few times the route was obscured by construction. It was like the ants in "A Bug's Life" when they had a fit because their road was blocked. Looking around at hundreds of others on the same pilgrimage, we took off again for another landmark.

A sign advertising a spagetti lunch for $7.95 drew us into a local eatery. One order would have sufficed. The helping was so generous. Back on the road again (or sidewalk), we saw Bunker Hill in the distance high on its hill and similar to the Washington Monument in D.C. We made it but our feet refused to climb the 400 steps to the top.

As we finished our walk to freedom, and headed for the subway 'The T', I saw a shopping bag lady with two carts full of plastic bags, cans and all her belongings at the corner of the busy intersection. Boston, a place for everyone.

Doctor Dresses Up

2011-10-31T20:09:00.000-07:00

I went for my annual checkup today, October 31st. After being shown into my room and told what to put on the nurse left. When ready, I was instructed to flip the green light switch 'On'. Within seconds I was ready and flipped the switch. I waited and waited, for what seemed like an hour in the examination room. Surely the lightbulb was burned out, I thought and contemplated opening the door to see.

Finally, a pirate that looked like a chubby Jack Sparrow waltzed through the door. Surprise, it was my OB-GYN. This is the 'trick' you get when you go to the doctors on Halloween. I picked up my 'treat' (candy bar) when arriving for the appointment.

He agreed to a photo and said he had had others ask also. I would have had the nurse take a picture of both of us, but my pink and red exam cover-up was too ugly & risque' to show. To be safe and smart make sure you get a regular annual physical this year.

I was deemed healthy and ready for another year on the high seas.

Running Around in Rhode Island

2011-10-28T04:32:00.000-07:00

Rhode Island is one of those states few of us get to actually visit. I checked it off my bucket list this month as we drove over the bridge headed for Newport, bordering the ocean on two sides.

This city of the nineteenth century 'rich and famous' brats has dozens of mansions to visit. Quaint trolleys take you around the town to see from the street or stop and take a closer look inside these opulent summer homes. A sea walk borders the back properties where debutante parties by the Vanderbuilts, Berwins and 'millionaire' homeowners were held all summer long.

Glass, gold, marble, walnut and more fill these dinosaur hulks interiors. Spiral staircases, fifty foot woodburning kitchen stoves, five styles of china, chandeliers bigger than a car were a must. $100,000 was the tab for just one weekend 'Got to impress the Joneses' event.

Our eyes couldn't take in the grandeur of each estate. Sad we were that such waste and selfishness ruled this class of people. Would we do the same in our day?

The funnest part of Rhode Island was the mile markers on the highways. Where most states have posts for every mile. This tiny one has mile markers for every quarter mile posted as 1.2, 1.4, 1.6 and so on. I wish I would have taken a photo of one.
Put Rhode Island on your list to visit. It will be worth it.

Goblin Valley

2011-10-09T19:37:00.000-07:00

Goblin Valley and the surrounding area has some of the most interesting shaped rocks anywhere. No wonder it has become a state park.

Temple Mountain (first 2 photos) north of Goblin Valley can be seen from a great distance while traveling on I-70, Hwy 6 and all roads in the vicinity. This striking white and red landmark rises thousands of feet heavenward catching the attention of all. Rain clouds frequently cluster around this sacred marker. What feelings does it evoke in the common man? Native Americans must have used it as a point of reference and more. No wonder the Mormons were inspired to settle the state and build temples.

The old rock building my brother-in-law, Tom and I are sitting on, built in the 1800's by early settlers was part of a thriving ranch. Abandoned and damaged by vandals over the years sits quietly at the base of Temple Mountain. It's history and people would be most interesting.

Indian petroglyphs high on the rock walls hold on dearly to its sheer face as hikers snap photos to extend the life of a long forgotten people. Look beyond the bullet holes. What could the indian's message mean? Real artists sharing their talent or telling their story to another generation.

I'd Say It's Been a Superb September

2011-09-30T15:26:00.000-07:00

From day one this month has been delightful. Nary a complaint can be found. The weather can't be beat with nights in the 50's and days hovering between the 70's and 80's. Neither air-conditioner or furnace was needed.

Gardens flourished. My second crop of peas and lettuce planted in August have begun to produce or are blooming. While hiking among the mountains, their exquisite fall outfits made Oscar contenders look cheap. The unmatched beauty of our state and federal parks proved God's embrace in its creation.

Words cannot convey the joy a perfect month brings.

Our Surviving Sunflower of Summer

2011-09-20T20:19:00.000-07:00

I love sunflowers and wanted row of toddler sized heads of them bobbing back and forth greeting passers by with their youthful radiance in the yard. In my mind I almost waved to them while planting a package of seeds this spring. Alas, it was not to be. Many grew, but few endured the wild winds, lack of water and competition with hardier plants.

Pictured is the lone survivor standing front and center in the flowerbed. When does that ever happen? Watching and waiting for it's full petaled arrival early one morning had us on pins and needles. Like a child, it opened when it was 'Good and ready'.

Unlike a kid the survivor stood still for it's multiple photo shoot. With the summer season clock ticking to an end we will try, try again, next year.

Nuts about Nine, Ten, Eleven

2011-09-10T08:03:00.000-07:00

I am nuts about 9/10/11. On this day BYU and Texas are playing football in Austin, Texas with nearly 100,000 in attendance. The U of U is playing USC in LA. Both lost by close margins. I spent the day pressure washing the exterior of my mother's home, attended a 21st birthday party and wanted to do nine more fun things going on in the valley. Our neighbors son is getting married today on 9/10/11. It's a good day for a blog post, to pay checks and repeat 9/10/11 over and over.

At these ages of 9, 10 and 11 we are in the fourth through six grades. Boys and girls begin to notice and tease one another with childhood crushes. I learned to play chess, four square and Polka dance with Dale Butterfield. Mastering times tables, long division and fractions was required and acheived. Mrs. Fine, Mr. Drew and Mr. Johnson were my teachers those grades.

What a carefree time life is at age nine, ten or eleven. We think life will always stay the same and never change, nor do we want it to. Summers are never long enough and friends become bosom buddies. Sleep overs, bike rides and making cookies rule. What a great time of life.

The Greater Green Grass Area

2011-08-31T10:34:00.000-07:00

I was on a mission last Saturday to fix our sprinkling system. Something is wrong when several areas of grass beside sprinkler heads are yellow and dying. I was determined to make it more efficient. Turning each set on, I watched the heads struggle to pop up,their spray barely reaching above the shortest blades of grass. Most were too deep in the heavy over growth of grass to do any good. Tilted heads watered the sidewalk and some sprayed inconsistent due to splits in their tops.

I was like a toddler running through the sprinklers trying to find each head, dig down to it, clear the area and jimmy the flexible end attached to it up to the top of the grass. I became drenched with the goal of green grass. Every neighbor driving by thought I was insane. Dirt, grass and weeds flew as each head was loosened from it's overgrown grave. Unfortunately grass grows, but sprinkler heads do not. Grass lumps were shoved under each spot to maintain the proper height.

Most heads were coaxed to a better place. The ones I missed are being marked with my handy yard tool until 'someone' gets their butt outside to finish the job.

Watch for greener grass on this side of the fence.

'The Great Family Get-to-Gether'

2011-08-20T15:32:00.000-07:00

Ah, 'The Great Family Get-to-Gether' resulted in a miracle photo that shows how much fun it was with 90% smiles (although photo shows only 50% smiling)of the 65% in attendance. Take one beautiful day, add 13 people, 4 cars, one disqualified softball game, a yummy breakfast and you have a hike to Donut Falls. All of us got a legal parking space and made it to the end of the trail.

10% made it to the top, 5% had walking sticks they liked, 50% waded in the water. Many were fearful of hike fatigue, but snacks at trail's end overcame that. Some saw moose, most got hot, everyone ate and had fun. Several took photos, mountain views were enjoyed, no one complained (to me) and we talked of repeating it again next year. Thank you all for coming because we needed it. Love Mom

Made It to Martin Harris Pageant

2011-08-05T15:44:00.000-07:00

With my nephew's wedding in Logan last week, we decided to go the the Martin Harris Pageant, too. Only problem is I didn't buy gas when the tank was low, thinking there was one more station, but there wasn't. Twenty miles later at 7:10 pm, we sat at the crossroads of three towns with an empty tank. Tiny Clarkston, where the pageant was(fifteen miles away,)probably didn't have gas. Logan and Wellsville were our choices. Not knowing how far it was to each town, we turned toward Wellsville. Ten miles later we gased up.

Heading back toward Clarkston I wished for rain to delay it, because the paper said it began at 7:30pm. How dumb, we would miss half of the play, I could only be mad at myself. Arriving at 8 pm what a miracle to see we were actually early. The play started at 8:30. Yeah! Great seats, play & time to relax and forget my fiasco.

Martin Harris, one of the Three Witnesses of the Book of Mormon, came to Utah in 1870 at the age of 87 and settled in Clarkston, Utah, where he died on July 10, 1875. He enjoyed sharing his testimony with those who would visit him and encouraged them to share his story and testimony with others

On July 10, 1925, the 50th anniversary of Martin Harris' death, LDS Church President Heber J. Grant dedicated a large granite monument on the gravesite with an inscription telling of Harris' role as a special witness and his testimony of the Book of Mormon. Also, a copper box containing a Book of Mormon, a Doctrine & Covenants, and testimonies of many of the people who had known Martin and heard his testimony was placed at the base of the monument.

The pageant became a reality on a hill at the edge of the Clarkston Cemetery about twenty years ago. If you are in the Cache Valley this summer, be sure to see this free play about his life July 30th-Aug 13th. Be smart & buy gas at the freeway exit.

Fifty-nine and Failing

2011-07-27T12:55:00.000-07:00

Recently I heard someone say it was sublime to be fifty nine. I beg to differ. After spending a month in that state of life. So far I have noticed my hearing failing, my memory more forgetful, my brain fuzzy when called upon to work and my joints freezing up more frequently. Not to mention, I finally found the phone, keys and camera I misplaced yet again. The shoes, good spelling and jacket are still missing. Frankly, I'm frustrated.

For all who have been there, done that, my apologies for not sympathizing with you sooner. Those have yet to hit the mark. Watch out! It's a bummer. This decline may be gradual or quick, real or imagined, but never welcomed. Even my granddaughter, Sarah, has noticed when I ask her to repeat it again. How annoying to look for days for something to discover it has been in the bottom of your purse or under the car seat the whole time. Apparently I am blind, too.

It's only a matter of time before the care center comes knocking on my door or the kids haul me there on the sly.

In Search of Internet Service

2011-07-14T15:54:00.000-07:00

We fired our internet provider of two years. It was down more times than it was working. It had been an adequate union, but 'not available' was the killer. Currently we are in search of another service that won't break the bank.

'Bundling' is the big push by many groups these days, but the costs are unreal after the honeymoon phase. It feels like they are trying to boondogle us into a bungling batch of nothing. Making & breaking contracts makes it tough to commit. Phones are a must, but do we want it all?

Stay tuned to our new internet, faster, simpler and easy next week. Posts will resume, then.

Birthday's Best

2011-06-24T15:12:00.000-07:00

Well another birthday has come and gone. It was a good day, with lots of well wishers via phone, Facebook, mail and in person. Allan gave me a sleek new camera small enough to pack around 24/7. Thank you. A Bonus Birthday.

Thinking back to other birthdays I remember ones such as:
One year I awoke up at 4:30 to watch the sunrise from a lounge chair on the back lawn. A Beat the Sun Birthday.

I got a brand new Schwinn two wheeler for my twelfth birthday. We were inseparable for years until it wore out. At sixteen a bright red Wilson tennis racket was waiting for me. I gave it to the grandkids last year. A Biking Birthday.

For my twentieth birthday brother, Jim, gave me some ice skates. I still have them, but the padded lining has turned hard and powdery. Smiley face drinking glasses showed up about the same time, thanks to a good friend. A Bought Stuff Birthday.

At twenty-one I got an engaged. The ring was hidden in the glove box. We got married in September. A Big Future Birthday.

Ten years ago I tried roller blading and broke my wrist. Later that day the car broke down and we had to hitch a ride home after seeing the movie, Mulan. We spent all evening in the ER. A Bummer Birthday.

I'm lucky enough to have a good weather birthdate. Except for about five years ago when it rained all day, most have been - Balmy with Blue Skies Birthdays.

When my birthday was on Sunday several years ago, there was no hiking, biking or shopping. I was able to nap and gave a lesson at church. A Behave Yourself Birthday.

Sometimes I have tried to cram so much into this one day, it would bomb and I regretted doing so. I've had several Bombed Birthdays.

Allan reminded me I was as old as he is now. Prior to that, I was excited for the 'Big' day. In the words of Tiny Tim, "Happy Birthday, Everyone!"

Gals Gabbing

2011-06-17T06:16:00.000-07:00

A group of my high school friends got together for lunch this week. A few of the gals hadn't seen one another since graduation. What fun we had reminicsing about old times, jobs, marital status, grandkids and such. Some of us went to elementary school together and go way back. We laughed about and tried to remember some the antics that occurred. Who says you are at a loss of what to say. We talked about old flames, the haunted bathroom, teachers sneaking Coke in the closet and much more.

I pulled out the ole camera and snapped a few pictures. Some of us look the same, others better and yet, who cares. We teased the oldest that will be sixty this year, glad we are the youngest of the group. Call your friends and set a date to gab with the gals.

It's About (Ant) Time

2011-06-08T12:19:00.000-07:00

"The ants march in the ants march out,
The ants march up and about your snout."

Do you remember singing this familiar song while marching around with childhood friends on ant and insect hunts?

With a late spring and cool temperatures the ants have stayed, underground or where ever it is they stay, until warm weather brings them outdoors. Ant swarms dot my sidewalk. Both large swarms of them and small piles of sand show their spring house cleaning has begun.

Usually the ants come indoors for a few weeks mid-spring, until it is consistantly warm enough to gather food outside. Perhaps their winter stores are depleted and our homes are a perfect emergency '72 hour kit' with plenty of food and to spare. No matter what I do they usually are found running bootleg from my kitchen to infinity and beyond. Or at work my lunch bag, left on the floor, has been invaded by these six legged "what's yours is mine" creatures.

It may take a while before we notice one ambitious ant first, then a trail of them trying to pack away the kitchen sink. Soon we realize they are back in force. No amount of sweeping, mopping or tidying will hamper their wagon train toting off whatever they like. Vacuum often or you'll discover they are even in your carpet under Dad's favorite chair, gathering crumbs from last nights snacks.

Can you imagine their conversations, "What a haul at the house on the corner." "Tell your family it is a smorgasboard." "We have hit the mother lode in that room!" All the while we are oblivious to them 'marching in, out and about."

Keep an eye out for them, because they will be back, sooner or later!

Rainbows Redefined

2011-05-25T15:49:00.000-07:00

It had been a stormy afternoon until about 3pm, when a full rainbow presented itself out of my picture window at work. One of those big ones you seldom see, that takes your breath away and you stop to contemplate its beauty. Two hours later I was rushing to my mother's bedside at the hospital. She died a few days later, and the rainbow has become a significant memory of that event.

This weekend another full rainbow was visible as we drove east to the freeway from visiting Antelope Island. Even though I am dealing with her death fairly well, rainbows, singing some hymns and such can really set me off.

Putting flowers on her grave as well as some plastic memorial bunches we found in her home, made for a colorful decoration. The death date has been carved in her headstone. We are moving forward with estate matters. Blogging has been more difficult. The desire will return, but it all takes time.

He’s a Handyman Hero.

2011-05-11T14:51:00.000-07:00

Part of my duel exhaust car muffler rotted off about a year ago. My ears became deaf to the rumbling sound, shortly thereafter. I promised the mechanic when it was inspected to replace it, but didn’t. Last month Allan & Kent (his brother) tackled the job. Welding wasn’t an option, when the rust holes were larger than the muffler itself. A new one was installed.

That was about the time whenever I applied pressure to the brakes, a noise like an ‘airplane landing above my head’ belched forth from the car. Could it be the pads, I asked Al. “What sound, I can’t hear anything,” he replied. Eventually, other drivers looked for the airport as we approached intersections and Allan decided, to take a look at the brakes. Sure enough, with much patience and pressure both rear wheel pads were replaced.

The final straw was our fence collapsing from a powerful wind. He dutifully took apart the fence, neatly stacking the slats in a pile. Next up: preparing to dig out the sheered-off posts, replace and stain them back into duty.

Bane of the Bur Buttercup

2011-05-04T13:27:00.000-07:00

Bur Buttercup is a noxious weed. Less than five years ago Allan pointed out some scraggly, bitty plants growing along the roadside, identified it as Bur Buttercup and said to watch out for it! This year it is everywhere along previously barren parkstrips, fields, and roadways. Every spot of ground has become it's new home, as this prickly burred plant agressively muscles its way onto our lands.

Each morning while out jogging, I fill a grocery bag or two with the pesky vermin and toss in the trash. An Army corp of volunteers is needed to turn the tide as this 'Missouri River' epidemic weed is on the verge of taking over.

"Fabian Menalled -Bur buttercup (Ranunculus testiculatus) is an exotic annual weed, native of southestern Europe that has become widespread in gardens, small grains, pastures, wastes areas, and along roadsides in the western USA. It is a winter annual that emerges, flowers, and sets fruits in the spring, when temperatures climb into the 45 to 50-degree range. It is a toxic species because it contains ranunculin, a chemical that changes into to protoanemonin, a highly toxic compound. The transformation of ranunculin into protoanemonin occurs when the plant is crushed. There are reports of sheep poisoning after ingesting bur buttercup.

It is important to control bur buttercup before they produce flowers and seeds. Hoeing, pulling and digging can control bur buttercup. They can be sprayed with 2,4-D, Ally, Banvel, Banvel + 2,4D, Finale, Liberty, or Roundup.

Categories: Weed, Bur Buttercup Date: 04/14/2005 go to MSU.montana.edu for more."
Saddest of all, who has even noticed the blight right under their feet? Ask most homeowners about Bur Buttercup and they won't know what you are talking about.

Please grab a bag, sprayer with 2, 4D or a hoe and get out there now before it is too late. It may already be!

April Thirty Fooled Again

2011-04-30T19:38:00.000-07:00

April 1st snowed on us. We woke up today, April 30th, to another winter delight. I couldn't resist showing it. 24 out of 30 days had rain, with no 80' days. 13 days made it to 50' and the rest is history.

I would much rather have the delicate touch of snow than even one of the hundred plus tornadoes that have destroyed lives, homes and power to millions in the South East part of the country.

Blessings:
We haven't had to turn on our sprinklers.
No one can complain about it being too hot.
Flowers have lasted longer and anything green is welcome

Simmer in Silence or Settling the Score

2011-04-27T08:28:00.000-07:00

I blew my top last night after sweeping up a mess left in the garage and hauling in a heavy roll of plastic from the back yard that had been left out in the rain. "I'm Not Your Mother!" sounded like music to my ears as I shouted to my hubby, Al. I was irritated and let him know it rather than stew and simmer in silence, my customary reaction to his abandoned messes.

What caused it? Maybe I have the 'Eight Year Itch' or just tired of picking up after this 'Big Boy'. Indeed it felt good to just get the load off my mind, instead of harboring thoughts of anger and frustration while he is clueless. I am only hurting myself and losing sleep for naught. Nagging is not in my nature.

An article a few years ago said, leave those jobs undone, if you must. They (meaning the person the job belongs to) will see the mess piling up and eventually take responsibility. NOT!!! The person that owns the job, more often than not, is blind to it. A job chart, lost priveleges, reminders, nagging or saying it like it are other ways to success. Bottomline, someone has to do the work of keeping a place clean.

Time will tell if he remembers 'Mom' is not gonna clean up his messes. I will keep track and see if silence or speaking my mind serves best. A smiley face will say it all.

Everyday is Easter

2011-04-23T13:28:00.000-07:00

"Peace I leave with you. My peace I give unto you, not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid." John 14:27

Jesus died for us, to bring eternal life to every human being that has or ever will live. 'Why seek ye the living among the dead? He is not dead, but lives'. We will all be resurrected one day. Our probationary time on earth is to prove ourselves worthy to return to Him. His gift endures the ages of past, present and future.

Better yet, Jesus, also atoned for our sins. By recognizing our mistakes and asking His forgiveness, we will be washed clean of the burdens that beset us. No gift is greater than this, 'that a person lay down his life for his friends', as Jesus did for us. Seek Him, always remember Him and he will comfort you.

Easter has been taken over by commercialism so much so, that we have to work to remember the origial purpose of it. The trinkets we receive this week pale in comparison to the resurrection. Along with treats, family time and egg hunts, think of Jesus' precious gift that we'll enjoy every day through and into eternity.

An Etching for Earth Day

2011-04-22T13:51:00.000-07:00

Etch in your memory the beauties of Mother Earth. Do your best, if only for today, 'Give back'. Whether that is conserving her resources, picking up trash, acknowledging her gifts, recycling or anything to show you appreciate our planet.

Thousands of years have come and gone, sustaining every living creature however long or short, that life may have been. Never wavering from its course, ever obedient to the solar system the Earth lies in. We, mankind alone, have the agency of 'choice'. We can make a difference for our posterity, whether we leave this earth better or worse for them.

Take a moment to enjoy the sunrise, cool breezes, glorious landscapes, emerging plant life, drinks of water, fading sunset and more this Earth 4-22-11 Day.

What, That's Wood?

2011-04-17T20:08:00.000-07:00

Our family attended the Salt Lake Wood Carvers Show after enjoying breakfast together a few weeks ago. Some of my favorite pieces are the ones shown. I couldn't believe the hours spent designing and creating such artwork. What great talent was displayed. Some of the pieces didn't even look like they could be carved from wood. Others perfectly suited items just seemed to grow right out of the wood chosen for them, such as the hawk.

My personal choice vote went to the leaves and delicate dish displayed on the lacey doily. It appeared to be a collector's piece from an earlier era. Thank you skilled artisans for your labor of love, and sharing your wonderful talents with us.

The See-Saw of Spring

2011-04-07T07:41:00.000-07:00

Yesterdays blue skies, chirping birds and warm breezes open the floodgates for spring fever. Today's six inches of snow, blustery winds and steel skies cause fluctuations in my temperature. We are on the spring see-saw cycle.

Is it hampering your lifestyle like it is mine? Like we can do anything about it. We can look at the the benefits, such as: 1. A slow warming trend means less flooding.
2. Snow ski until July 4th, water ski after.
3. Still time to buy summer clothes while wearing the winter ones.
4. Don't have to water or mow until May. Yeah!

If these reasons don't make you happy perhaps this lovely fushcia carnation will brighten your day, like it did mine, last month after finding it waiting on my porch with a note.

April Fools to Me

2011-04-01T06:25:00.000-07:00

I blame chapstick for this April Fool's joke on me. While waiting for the car ahead of me to pull onto the road leading out of my office business park, I lathered up the lips. Thinking he had gone and not checking, I bumped into him.

We both got out to look and saw no damage. I backed up for a better view with still no harm done. Shaking hands and calling it good, we drove away.

On April Fool's Day, Allan asked what I had done to the car. Remembering the car incident, I walked out to see the bent hood and ding in it. How could I have missed this? Did someone back into me since then? Probably not. It is easier to notice it from the passenger side. Damage control means possibly a new hood. It is not cheap. Dang!!!

April Fool's on me.

Great Glass Goblets

2011-03-25T15:22:00.000-07:00

Glancing at the glassware and dishes while grazing at the DI, I found these lovely goblets for a generous $.50 each. I couldn’t believe these were so cheap. Bud vases now go for $2, even the gunky ones. Perhaps a greater demand for them.

Water marks are hard to wash away after years of using the same water glasses. I’m embarrassed when dinner guests come to gobble away and must drink from something that looks so ghastly. Will they grimace or reply with grievances about the grime?

I’m glad to have found this godsend. A grand dinner party is in the works to show them off.

Stick Out Some St. Patty's Stuff

2011-03-16T19:25:00.000-07:00

On St. Patty's Eve I'm showing the stuff that's been on display in my entry since March 1st. How easy is it to walk your home and pick out all the green, gold and white you have to make an eye catching arrangement that cost little to nothing.

Similar to the red heart fabric tied wreath I made in February, I pulled out all my green shades of fabric and made one to hang from the porch light for St. Patrick's Day. A gold bow from a bolt of 75% off Christmas ribbon I bought to use for wedding gifts and looks nice on this wreath.

Remove the shamrocks after the holiday is over and keep the display until you are ready for Easter. Try it and see how easy it is to do.

A Gal's Got to Do, What a Gals Got to Do

2011-02-22T13:52:00.000-08:00

My husband just doesn't understand the inborn need for a woman to shop. Most women acquire this 'Shopping gene' over the years. It's no different than a man's thrill to hunt, win or think they are invincible.

Females need to shop in order to find the 'Deal'. It doesn't matter what the deal is, as long as the purchase is less than the original cost. The bigger the savings the more exciting the trip. When I saw this 70+ year old driving a Beetle car, I knew she loved to shop, even if it was for bigger things than just stuff. Yes, my choice would be the same, if I could afford it.

When 70% off the retail value or clearance is advertised, you bet I have to check out what's available. Retail (photo) was $160, actual purchase of Izod shirt, Carters PJ's, etc. was $34.50 (Approx $5.75 ea). Birthday, Christmas, Aunt Beth's anniversary or Helping the Homeless are reasons to find something for anyone I may or may not know.

$.88 Tuesday finds me at Honks. Even dollar stores have sales, I'm not above checking out.

After holiday sales are a grab bag of goods for the next year or other events. Why pay premium, when it can be bought at rock bottom prices. Don't let society drive our purchasing power with commercialism and deadline dates? I'm much happier with a dozen roses for $8 on February 22nd than ones costing $50 on Valentines Day.

Coupons: Use only when the goods are on sale, can be doubled or register rewards make them nearly free. These high priced items aren't really saving us money if we don't need it, use it or want it. Why waste time and money on something that isn't really healthy. Avoid the pricey junk foods being touted as 'must haves' by huge manufacturing companies.

The BIG Six - Servings that Satisfy

2011-02-22T08:07:00.000-08:00

Oranges, bananas, apricots, tomatoes, spinach and broccoli contain the best all around goodness for our health. These are the big SIX fruits and vegetables that provide the most nutrients our bodies need. Over the years we have become overfed and undernourished with our super-sized diets. Left behind are the whole fruits and vegetables. Consumption of more bottled, boxed and bagged items full of added fats, flavorings and fru-fru have become the norm.

Many say produce is too expensive and perishable. The key is to buy it on sale or clearance. Watch the weekly produce ads. Most stores have a clearance section deeply discounting the day old and ageing foods. Choose the best looking and priced from the batch, leave the worst. Get into the habit of checking the discounted fruit/veggies with every store visit. Be sure to eat them within a few days to avoid waste. Learn the seasons of fruits and vegetables, taking advantage of price and freshness.

Soon you will be eating mango, strawberries, peppers, spinach, cauliflower and more at rock bottom prices, because of the deals you can find. The natural sugars from a five or more a day diet will end the craving crisis we have for a chips, sweets or such.

Set a plate of fruit out every meal and remember to have several of these powerhouse SIX everyday. Nothing can replace the complete nutrition and fiber from produce, our bodies need to stay optimally healthy. Your cells will be soooo grateful.

Very Valentines

2011-02-14T19:47:00.001-08:00

Holidays are so much fun that I go all out, with decorations, plates, napkins, wear clothes to match and so on. I even start to see the color being celebrated in everything.

Pulling out fabric scraps, I tied together this bright red hanger wreath. It looked so good, I made one for my Mother, too. With small paper bags hung as a garland, stamped letters and contrasting paper, it was a snap to put together a LOVE sign.

A red velvet cake mix came in handy for the classy parfait desserts that included fresh strawberries, yogurt, a cream cheese mix, jello and chunks of the cake. Friends received the deep red cupcakes with cinnamon sugar hearts on top as well. One recipient said, "These look delicious!" They were, too.

We didn't stop there. Hitting the matinee, we saw a new release (rare by our standards) Gnomeo and Juliet. It was cute. Why not live it up? Go to town.

Finiky Feet

2011-02-04T13:02:00.000-08:00

I tell shoe salesmen that "I'm not picky, but my feet ARE!" Yes, they don't like high heels, arches that don't fit, tight or floppy shoes. That's why I never have the hippest feet, because comfort is more important than 'show'.

Over the years I've discovered, it doesn't pay to buy cute or the latest craze in footwear. Invariably, if they're uncomfortable I won't wear them.

Years ago a fellow employee asked me how many pairs of shoes I had. After a quick mental inventory I told her about twenty. Later I counted them and sure enough had that many. I maintain about the same number all the time.

Be it jogging, hiking, working or dependable, each shoe does its job while supporting my high arches. When I see people limping, hobbling or such, I know it is best to take care of these 'finiky feet' ever single day.

January's Gone -Extraordinary Events Live On

2011-01-31T15:39:00.000-08:00

January is behind us for another year, but the many memories of it, will live on. Each month brings recollections of important and extraordinary events from both the present and past. Here are several January events making it forever special:

BIRTHDAYS: Alicia, Breann, Hunter & Paula (sister). The excitement of their birth becomes real each year as I remember racing to the hospital in a snowstorm with Alicia. Hearing the doctor say, "It's another girl", for Breann! Getting a call that the baby had been born when not expected, Hunter. With Paula, trouble was detected and the birth was at LDS Hospital instead.

VACATIONS: Going to Hawaii as a family a rare opportunity. Snorkeling, hiking, the huge downpour, Pearl Harbor, Cultural Center and more. Our trip to Florida to pick up Jenn from her mission, was exciting as well as Cape Canaveral, Sea World, MGM Grand and more.

MISSIONS: Allan left & returned from his mission in January 1971-1973. Jenn returned from her mission the first month of 1997, too.

CURRENT EVENTS: Major storms this year rocked the East, with floods in Austrailia & Brazil leaving many dead or homeless. Past events we'll remember are the Space Shuttle disaster, major earthquakes in Haiti & California.

DEATHS: My brother, Nile's death was in January as well as the death of President's Hinkley & McKay.

BUCKET LIST: I set out to do 11 things each month of this year. I gave out dozens of cinnamon rolls to welcome the near year, visited art museums, hosted a FHE dinner for 30, saw True Grit, & more. They aren't big, just different than the same old same ole. We grow much more when we try.

Goodbye cold month - Hello new thoughts & experiences, February.

'R'

2011-01-26T15:44:00.000-08:00

After reading and enjoying the book, 'Fast Food Nation' by Eric Schlosser, I wanted to see the movie about it. Thinking it would follow the many facts introduced in the book, I didn't notice the rating it had. It only took a few minutes to discover it was R rated. I don't watch R rated movies and have found after they come to TV, it is a good rule to have.

Unlike the excellent book the movie was filled with foul language and disgusting scenes. Disjointed and repulsive, I should have turned it off at the first 'F' word. Hoping it would get better, I watched the whole movie 100+ 'F' words and all.

I felt defiled and disgusted. Unpleasant pictures and words keep marching through my mind. Disappointed that my self-will wasn't stronger like many other times, when I stopped a movie at the first insult and sent it back.

The next day while reading 1 Nephi 17: 30-40, I was surprised how many 'R' words jumped out at me. 'Redeemer, received, raiseth a righteous, resteth and rod' promised hope for my mistakes. While on the other hand 'revile, rejected my word and ripe in iniquity' reminded me of the 'R' movie.

I knew it could be forgotten and I'd be forgiven, then move forward more cautiously the next time, trying not to trust in the arm of flesh.

The Firsts are Foremost

2011-01-11T13:25:00.001-08:00

This year instead of making New Year's Resolutions, I decided to choose eleven new things never before experienced. So far a visit to the U of U Museum of Art, a spin in the Harold B Lee Library and seeing the James Tissot art exhibit at BYU's Museum of Art have been my firsts. Okay, not super wild but educational nonetheless.

January will be my 'Attempting All Art' craze month. February is "Be a Basketball Fan". I am going to some college basketball games at BYU & U of U or more. March perhaps something charitable or funny. This summer Glacier National Park or fireworks on a bay somewhere. There is plenty of time to think up alot of exciting or cool things.

Why die a boring life, when you can have an interesting one? This may be the year I climb King's Peak or Angel's Landing, scuba or sky dive. I may even try making Quiche Lorraine. Who's to stop me from giving it my best shot? Tell me what you plan to do.

Plummeting Perceptions

2011-01-05T14:01:00.000-08:00

Have You Noticed?

RED LIGHTS: If you run a red light or light turning red, you won't make the next light, unless you speed even more, of course. Notice the cars that were just behind you and stopped at the first light. They will catch up to you at the one you didn't make. Those drivers will have a clear conscience for obeying the law. After noticing this several times, I quit running the lights.
Moral of the story: Just stop at the first light, instead of thinking you saved time and chance getting a ticket.

DEBT: 'With each passing year, we find we are more owned by the things we think we own.' Norris Burkes in Florida Today.
Moral: Think twice & more about those must haves. Choose to do something affordable instead, that you can pay cash for.

OBEY the Traffic Laws: Several drivers this week ran stop signs from side streets to beat the traffic bearing down on them. Fatal accidents happen when we drive too fast, break the law and are impatient or rude drivers.
Moral: The life you risk, may be your own. Is it worth the twenty seconds saved?

Thinking we can out manuever fate sometimes comes back to bite us in the butt. Our perceptions plummet, but we can remedy them by being smart in the choices made.

01/01/11 or One One Eleven

2011-01-01T14:55:00.000-08:00

Yes, here is the first day of 2011. Although it is 15' outside the sky is a bright blue, thanks to the breeze that cleared away all the smog. What a great day to be alive. This magpie photo showed up on my camera download. This noisy, aggressive bird isn't really popular, but with the sunlight coming from behind in this picture, it looks like a promising opportunity for some photographer. That is what we need to make 2011, 'A Promising Opportunity'.

So far it's been a pretty lazy day. I watched the Rose Parade, read the newspaper that had been piling up for awhile and took a spin around the golf course on my skiis breathing in that cold, fresh air. Hey, it's okay to take one day off.

Have a terrific year of gaining knowledge, helping others, staying healthy and enjoying life. May 'twenty eleven' be a great time to enjoy each day as it comes. Take a look at what's really in the picture instead of the things we don't like about it.

Keeping and Caring for Christmas

2010-12-22T15:07:00.000-08:00

I took a recent suggestion about displaying nativities in our own yards, instead of worrying about our city and town's being forced to stop the practice, due to offending the outspoken few. Proudly finding many others that did the same.

Keeping up with the demands we put on ourselves at Christmas is challenging to say the least. I figure there are about 100 gifts I have to come up with before the 25th. The goal is to make these gifts look and be awesome, unique and well thought out, but not leave you penniless before the next payday. This takes a great deal of planning, creativity and searching for the perfect present. Attending music and theatrical concerts is achieved by checking the weekly Concert Calendar. Support performances in the community which generate more for years to come. Who doesn't love seeing the Christmas lights and homes with light shows and music that attract all.

Most important is giving to those in need. The Bishop's Christmas room providing toys for girls & boys, was easy to participate in. Take the kids or grandkids along to help pick gifts out. A stop at The Road Home shelter to drop off blankets, brought a desire to give more.

Our generous spirit grows, makes us feel good and blesses all.

Attempting Alto

2010-12-01T20:03:00.000-08:00

I'll admit I joined the Temple Volunteer Choir, because they were singing in the Salt Lake Tabernacle for a devotional. It was my ulterior motive to walk where the famous singers and leaders have been. Bragging rights could be used.

The first practice consisted of 2 hours of straight throat abuse singing. It seemed like all the sopranos around me could reach the high notes and spot on pitch. I hoped no one could hear my off key sqawking. All week I considered quitting, but decided to give it another try. That's when I sat on the edge of the sapranos, next to the altos. If the note was to high, I would lean toward my alto friend matching her voice. Jump ship when the going gets tough in the treble cleff.

I contemplated joining the hard to hear lower notes group. There was no way I could miss by sitting in the middle of all those strong voices. Each week after immersing myself in the middle of the Alto section, the notes became easier to hear and hit.

The mind was able to memorize each song and by program night, I was ready to be a true Alto singer. What a fun experience to have had.

Not Just Waiting for Thanksgiving Dinner

2010-11-22T05:26:00.000-08:00

Our grandkids arrived from out of state ahead of the storm. We got busy making snowmen and balls. What fun to relax from every day cares and roll up a snowman or two. Finding the rocks for his face was tricky.

It was a smiley kind of day.

First Snow Full of Fractures

2010-11-21T05:17:00.000-08:00

A serious winter storm hit last night as we were coming home from a wedding reception. The flakes were big enough to wrap up in by a cozy fire. In the early hours distinct cracking from overburdened branches could be heard.

Our beautiful Imperial Pear tree lined street looked like a tornado went through. Weight from the wet snow on the slow leaf droppers affected one or many of every homeowner's trees. Some split in half and others escaped with only a few downed branches. Although beautiful at first light the damage was sad to see. Our air cooling tree friends took the brunt of the storm, especially the Willows.

High Priest Feast

2010-11-20T05:22:00.000-08:00

We had a High Priest Feast at the stakecenter. The cultural hall was filled fuller than our tummies with ten place settings at each table. Ham, funeral potatoes, green beans and more purchased at our nearby grocery store (Do you just love that sunset?) was consumed too quickly. This became my second feast of the week. A former Young Ambassador, Mr. ? Connelly from BYU performed a dozen songs about 'thanks' and gratitude mixing in a little Clair de lune and Dvorjak along the way.

Cuter than usual favors graced the table. We snarfed up a few extra to share with our grandkids for the big Feast Day. The photo of birds on the power lines (The morning rush hour commute was going on below) reminded me of waiting in line for the food and rubbing shoulders with friends to enjoy the season.

Every day brings another reason to be thankful for life and the blessings we enjoy minute by minute.

Bloch is on the Block

2010-11-19T15:09:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving isn't just about food. It's also about doing special things and going to exciting places. Several of us went to the recently opened 'Carl Bloch' art exhibit at the BYU Museum of Art. The LDS Church has accepted and displayed his work for over fifty years.

Carl Bloch (1834-1890), a famous Danish artist is a favorite in this area. He established a name for himself when commissioned to replace paintings of Christ, for the Frederiksborg Palace that had had its artwork destroyed in a fire in the 1870's. He studied art at the Royal Danish Academy of Art, after convincing his prominent parents to allow him pursue his dream. They finally consented, but feared he would die poor.

Looking at these century plus paintings that appear to be freshly finished is amazing. The colors tell stories and share symbolism that is easy for a novice to understand. His pieces of religious work have been featured in magazines and art pieces all over the world.

"Christ Healing at the Pool of Bethesda" was purchased by the Church of Jesus Christ several years ago. All religious and other pieces were appreciated for their beauty and meaning. We loved every minute to be in the presence of such talent as we toured the exhibit.

Seven Signs Thanksgiving is Soon on the Scene

2010-11-19T14:48:00.000-08:00

The company 'Turkey Bash' officially starts the seven days of Thanksgiving for me. Everyone brings something adding to the three baked turkeys and trimmings provided by the comapany. Drinks and rolls fill up first on the 'Food list' with this mostly male company. Our employees come from all parts of the globe, making our feast options fairly international. We always have 'flan' and other foreign dishes I can't pronounce or spell.

Heaping plates of both main dish and desserts, eaten slowing over the afternoon expands my torso enough for the need to loosen my pants and bra. I'm satisfied to the point of having to skip dinner, not eating until the next morning.

Oh, the trials of preparing for more feast, is really a hardship. We do our best.

Farewell to Fall

2010-11-08T08:04:00.000-08:00

Autumn is breathtaking now and holding out to the bitter cold end. Shops, streets, yards and more are adorned with pleasing feasts of fall. No one can complain there is nothing to see. Just open your eyes and hearts, to God's great gift of color.

Every place you look is a picture waiting to be taken. The camera is never in the right place at the right time nor is the phone. With moments before the chill and rain drive every arrayed leaf from its home, go for a walk. Kick up the leaves, hear them crunch and see them scatter.

Bearing up the Beans

2010-10-31T15:52:00.000-07:00

We had green beans coming out of our ears. Therefore, I was forced to blanch and freeze the surplus. Oh, it is wonderful to produce your own food especially when it is healthy. You can just see the Vitamin A & C oozing out of them while cooking and eating plentifully one pan after another. I can't get enough of them.

I planted my excess pole bean seeds in our park strip making a tri-pod with trimmed branches for them to grow up. The thirty inch high tent wasn't enough to support the burgeoning vines. Thanks to a red antherium plan and a sunflower growing nearby the beans adopted them to continue to grow on.

Now my purple people eating monster, green bean person could scare a child on a dark Halloween night. BOO!!

Sight Seeing in Sleepy Hollow

2010-10-27T20:36:00.000-07:00

Sleepy Hollow really is a place. It has a quaint graveyard surrounded by a centuries old rock chapel. The story of the 'Headless Horseman' of this 300+ year old town isn't true, although Ichabod Crane could be a distant relative of mine. Our self-guided tour printout showed dozens of graves and mausoleums to visit as we traversed the grounds.

The large hilly cemetery in the center of town boasts many famous people residing there such as Washington Irving (author of the famous story), Franklin Roosevelt, many Revolutionary soldiers and even a possible relative or two.

I admit having to look up on Wikipedia the details surrounding what portends to have happened that lonely night ages ago when a Hessian (German) soldier's head was shot off by a cannon. His ghost haunted the village and may have visited Ichabod, the local school teacher. Whether it's the tiny creek by the cemetery or the great Hudson River nearby, the ghost tried to chase the instructor to or over the river.

Later, it is said, Mr. Crane dressed up like the feared apparition. One night carrying a pumpkin as a head and riding a horse, he intended to win the love of a sweetheart over another suitor. Did he want to scare her into it or show his bravery? I'm not sure if it was successful, but being family and all, he gets my vote.

October is probably this Hudson riverside town's busiest time. Scarecrow classes, cars lining the streets and art exhibits filled the place with a holiday feeling. Decorated to the hilt I couldn't resist snapping photos as we left the not very dozy hamlet.

'Gourd' geous Growth

2010-10-27T20:16:00.000-07:00

Take a minute to enjoy
The ‘gourd-geous’ colors of fall.

I’ll be thinking of you
while you’re out having a ball.

The beauty won’t last long
No, not at all.

Go now with your friends, family or just give me a call.

Instead of giving pumpkin cookies to friends and neighbors, I typed up this catchy poem, attached it to a gangly or multi colored parcel and shared with them.

Growing gourds can take over your whole yard but the rewards are worth it. I planted some dried seeds from a bumpy, colorful gourd I bought at the store last year and saved over the winter. In the spring while looking for something, I spied the dried item and decided to throw some in the ground.

I planted some in good soil, others in clay soil and so on in various spots in my yard. They all seemed to grow where they were planted, no matter the amount of water or soil they we in. I netted about 100 gourds from three areas. As you can see in the photo, one plant took over my front flower and bush garden.

Tiny Tot Tests the Waters

2010-09-23T06:27:00.000-07:00

Isn't it a joy to watch a baby discover a new challenge? Even though stairs can be fearful for both child and adults, learning to navigate them successfully is a good thing.

Our granddaughter, Emma, is pictured here getting the idea to attempt something new. She then makes a move to climb up a few steps. Finding out they won't buck her off, she keeps climbing then takes off for the unknown.

Let us all have the courage to keep trying until we get it right or are satisfied. One never knows what the results will be unless the leap is taken first.

"Push yourself, have ideas & the passion to execute them. There is a whole world that can be experienced allowing you to rise to the top. Talent is a gift, but persistence is its own reward."

Bean There, Missed That

2010-09-17T15:32:00.000-07:00

Our bumper crop of pole beans has resulted in an overflow on every shelf in the refrigerator. No one asks, 'What's on the menu?' because they know it is green beans, zucchini, carrots or cucumbers. No complaining here since fresh veggies are in season for maybe ninety days of the year. Some produce is given to neighbors and family with a craving for the home grown.

Daily pickings and double searching to get every last bean in its prime is a must. It's a game of 'Hide and Seek' with some beans seeming invisible amongst the leaves. Others ones shouting, 'pick me first', like we did in school for the afternoon Phys-Ed ball game. If I find them grown to 'huge' portions the next day, I marvel how they could have been missed. Production slows when they are ignored and left on the vine.

It's clearly a game of 'I Spy', then I eat. Yum! Yum!

'73 Transposed Was 37 Years Ago

2010-09-13T12:51:00.000-07:00

Yes, 37 years ago in 1973 we were married in the Salt Lake Temple for time and all eternity after a four year courtship. That alone seems like forever, but it really wasn't. We would hear people say they had been married 25 years and think that was more than our lives on earth.

It seems now that 37 years is a very, very long time after some days of trying to be patient with one another. Now I understand why Grandma Schmidt seemed a bit irritated with Grandpa after fifty plus years of marriage. Sometimes you just get in each others way. Here are some recent pictures that show how long enduring to the end really is.

All in all, we still love each other and are willing to hang in there until 2023 at least. Hey, that's fifty years and almost an eternity.

Trampoline, Truely Twenty Five Years of Fun

2010-09-09T08:09:00.000-07:00

Christmas 1985 our dear trampoline came to reside with us. Many happy bounces have ensued since the first jump took place in early 1986. Everyone has taken a turn or two hundred on it. Some patrons even had sleep-overs, tumbles, fly-offs and more, fortunately resulting in minor damages.

When the grandkids came to visit this summer, it was the popular hangout. ‘Take turns’ we shouted over and over to them, when the smallest ones couldn’t handle the momentum. Occasionally an adult would climb on, delighting the little ones. Their powerful jumps would send all the rest flying high. ‘Dead Man, Dead Man’ was an oft played game, as each in turn tried to find others to tag out. Neighbors commented hearing happy voices spilling over from our back yard. The grass was greener under the tramp do to the many water games played.

No one knows who has jumped the highest. Jory is probably a contender for first place; although everyone who has bounced skyward via the trampoline, feels they are soaring to heaven. What is it that these round, spring laden contraptions do to us the minute we step onto them? Instant childhood returns as our lungs inhale the fresh rushing air, bringing a smile to our faces.

Here is an invitation: ‘Same time, same place next year to all the bouncing boys and girls.’

Four Great Girl Generations

2010-08-25T14:36:00.000-07:00

Most families like to take pictures of their posterity. They help us remember one another and the good times we spend together. It's fun to remember what we looked like at a certain age in our life. How amazing it is to see the resemblances we have with one another and the traits we acquire.

It is especially fun to see four generations showing great-grandparents, grandparents, parents & their child in photos. Here is one of mine showing my eldest daughter with her youngest and only girl, my mother and me.

Parting With My Piles

2010-08-19T15:01:00.000-07:00

I must like piles because they are everywhere in the house. Piles of valuable hand-me-downs, abandoned crap, excessive purchases, memorable bric-a-brac and miscellaneous what-nots hang out in most rooms. There either isn't a perfect place or isn't room to fit it in. Maybe it's that I can't decide what to do with each sentimental piece.

Mostly ignored until company is coming, then this unclassified clutter has to be dealt with. Rooms that guests don't enter get piled higher and higher of these so called 'must keeps'. When the offspring come home to visit I'll say the classic, "One of these days, this will get tossed." It never happens.

How to convince myself to let it go. The best cure is to have someone else do the deed, where the attachment doesn't exist. Having friends clean out each others homes might work, but would the relationship endure. Imagine the accusations. "You threw out my special Valentine card from third grade!"

Why not hire a maid service? Is it the money or letting them see you at your worst? Probably both. I could muster the courage to 'Do-it' my self. I dream of the biggest garage sale ever with dollar signs in my eyes. Like that will ever happen, but think of all the money to be made. My biggest fear is that when no one is looking, I would haul half of it back to the house.

Shall my kids conspire while hubby and I go on a weekend getaway? More than a dozen times my siblings and I attempted dumping my own mom's crap, but to no avail. She would drag it out of the trash saying, she needed it.

A clean break is the only way to part with my piles. This is a perilous situation.

Help, I'm Hyper-sensitive

2010-08-12T14:34:00.000-07:00

On occasion I go through a hyper-sensitive frame of mind, where absolutely everything bugs me. I can't even stand myself during this period. It’s not easy to reign in these feelings, that cause me to react to common stimuli so negatively. Often, I resort to slamming doors, verbal innuendos and throwing things. Normally, the same irritants are ignored or unseen. You could say my 'annoyance radar' is fairly low most of the time.

When I'm 'hyper-so-sensitive' little scraps of paper/string etc. on the floor, the common counter clutter, a caller that talks slowly on the phone, my mother repeating the same phrase for the fourth time and so on make me crazy. Driving becomes more frustrating, if the car I’m following isn’t going fast enough, its a clunker or an old style, I'll change lanes. I want it out of my sight. My mild mannered hubby can irritate me, if he doesn’t remember to do his chores, forgets to help out more or does some other minor infraction.

What causes this 'Out of my mind' feeling? Stress, temporary depression, lack of or disrupted sleep, trying to do more than is humanly possible. Having guests over also removes the blinders I have of my home's condition. It opens my eyes to every ugly detail, thus become keen to distractions.

It only lasts for a few days. Deep breathing, exercise, sleeping pills and self-talk get me out of this funk. I'm little Miss 'Go With the Flow' the rest of the time, or not! It all depends on the external forces.

Temple in the Tiny @Temple Square

2010-08-04T05:08:00.000-07:00

Miniature building representations are becoming very popular. It was just a matter of time until a tiny replica was made of the interior of the Salt Lake Temple. Recently the unveiling of this look-alike structure down to the minutest detail was celebrated. (Notice the unique view of the 'real deal' in the background of the photo.

Opened 360 days of the year and boasting over a million visitors, Temple Square probably has more than a few hundred thousand people wondering what the interior of its gemstone, The Salt Lake Temple, looks like on the inside. Stop by to take a peek at it in the South Visitors Center on Temple Square. It's open until 9pm.

While there, take in a free concert at the Assembly Hall (Saturdays @7:30pm) or the Brigham Young Park (Tues & Fridays @7:30pm). You will put your wonderings to rest after you see the Salt Lake Temple in its tiniest form.

Picnic at the Pit

2010-07-29T05:04:00.000-07:00

Jory, Sarah, Grandma, Allan & I took advantage of the free Visit the Kennecott Copper Mine offered last week. We viewed the 'can be seen from outer space' hole, watched the video and took a picnic dinner.

Sarah admitted going here on a field trip in elementary. If you haven't been to the Bingham Copper Mine pit lately, it is only $5 per car load. Open from 8am to 8pm although no one is admitted after 7pm and shooed out the door at 7:45. It can be reached from the south west end of Salt Lake Valley by taking 11800, 12300 South, Old or New Bingham Highway to 80th west, turn south (12300 turn north) until you come to the Rio Tinto entrance on the west side of the road.

The view from the top is out of this world as you watch the two story building size trucks inch their way up from the bottom of the pit to dump a load bigger than your house into the crusher. Take binoculars to see the 'ugly bug crawl'. Then look for the lone porta potty in a field of clay dirt on the north end as you arrive at the parking lot.

Nice and New on Nintieth

2010-07-28T14:55:00.000-07:00

A new office building was recently opened on 90th South. It is just west of the big power plant by the Jordan River. The front of the building is a classy stone and brick one story. The east side has offices on two levels with a walk out basement. A long tree lined drive leads to it with 360' parking. An exit road with a new bridge crossing the overflow canal leads in front of the power plant (seen in the rear) to the highway.

This neglected property had a for sale sign by the old gravel road on the north side of 90th for a long time. Now a beautiful office building with prime suites and fancy landscaping graces this once weedy property.

Maybe we'll be lucky enough to have an appointment with a doctor or physical therapy there. Better yet, stay healthy and just drop by to see the new digs.

Gilgal Gardens

2010-07-16T14:59:00.000-07:00

On a balmy summer evening I visited the restored Gilgal Gardens in Salt Lake on 5th South and 750 East. As a college student seeing this visionary's artist depiction of a long ago era, for the first time brought confusion and questions.

Over the years I wondered what reaction it would have on me visiting it now. The sphinx with Joseph Smith's head, stone archway, scriptural references and more hold deep meanings we may never understand. What is this pleasant name, Gilgal?

Mentioned in the Old Testament: 1 Sam. 11: 14-15
14 Then said Samuel to the people, Come, and let us go to Gilgal, and renew the kingdom there.
15 And all the people went to Gilgal; and there they made Saul king before the Lord in Gilgal; and there they sacrificed sacrifices of peace offerings before the Lord; and there Saul and all the men of Israel rejoiced greatly.

The Book of Mormon lists it at the end of the Nephite era in 400 AD:
3 Ne. 9: 6 And behold, the city of Gilgal have I caused to be sunk, & the inhabitants thereof to be buried in the depths of the earth;
Morm. 6: 14 And Lamah had fallen with his ten thousand; and Gilgal had fallen with his ten thousand; as both a city and a brave captain.

What significance the name has for the artist, LDS businessman Thomas Battersby Child, Jr. (1888-1963) is not known. His desire was that the garden would make people think: "You don't have to agree with me," he said. "You may think I am a nut, but I hope I have aroused your thinking and curiosity."

It's a peaceful place begun in 1945 and recently restored by many donors where one can go to contemplate life.

Surely, I'm Early

2010-07-09T08:04:00.000-07:00

07:59 07:59 07:54 07:53
07:56 07:57 07:57 07:55

Just look at these ‘punch-in’ times, for the past two weeks. Notice that every one of them is before 8am. This is a first for me. What changed, you ask. No I am not leaving earlier. Why would I do that? It might mess up my morning routine. There will be construction on 13th West for a month. Now taking Redwood Road, it is easy to see that the 45 MPH speed limit and a main thoroughfare street provide longer green lights to move the masses.
It is like a checkers game as the commuters shift from lane to lane in order to move one, three or five car lengths ahead. I only made eight lane changes in forty-five blocks today. Squeaking through yet another intersection on a pink light, makes you want to shout, ‘King Me!’
Success is getting to work early. Winning the game is having a full pay period of early punches. Redwood Road may be my new route. With the extra time saved, I can leave even later or continue to be early.
As Red Green would say, “We’re all in this together!”

What's Up With 114

2010-07-06T06:22:00.000-07:00

Take a look at 11400 South as it prepares to be a main artery to the I-15 freeway. This little two lane road now has a new bridge over the Jordan River which looks like the Rocky Mountain Raceway as it reaches over the span. A new walking bridge is shown in the background (middle photo) connecting the twenty plus miles of parkway all the way from Bluffdale to Salt Lake.

It won't be long until the great West finally meets up with the proud East, in their six lane trek to the interstate and beyond. Next year come try out the ten million dollar road while making your way to Sandy, Salt Lake or Santa Quin. If you have any money left after paying taxes for the road, shop at The District, Downtown or Draper.

Ten Minute from Home Tour

2010-06-15T05:51:00.000-07:00

The IN-N-Out Burger finally came to our area last fall. Two hour waits to get your order were common the first month or two. There are now four in the Wasatch Front area, providing service to more people in more places. I think we visited an In N Out while in Las Vegas a decade ago.

Their menu is simple with basically three items to choose from. The Hamburger is $1.75, cheeseburger $2.05 & the Double Double for $3.05. Fries are $1.35 and drinks small $1.25, med $1.35, large $1.55 & exlarge $1.75. Combos $4.75, 5.75 & 6.75. How nice to have the menu so easy on your eyes and mind. It eliminates fussing over 100 menu choices & laying awake nights if you made a mistake. No more taking too long deciding while your hubby mumbles to hussle it up or those behind you hoover to help you decide. It's easy to memorize for future visits.

Eye appealing is the end result when your chubby burgers are delivered dressed in cute half wrappers bulging with lettuce, tomatoes & onion. The taste is terrifically fresh, as you bite into the soft puffy, bursting full bun.

The red and white eatery's interior is also smart but simple. No upselling of the hottest movie rif-raff, larger than life bozo shapes plastered on the walls or other distractions to complicate the meal. Instead enjoy a simple tasty time with friends & family void of bombarding visuals.

Try the IN-N-Out Burger near you. Ask for the 'animal style' burger & you'll never visit another fast food franchise again. Go early & avoid the lunch or dinner hour rush. They will be opening one in Riverton this summer.

Ten Minute from Home Tour Tuesday

2010-06-08T15:03:00.000-07:00

Remember the old tressle bridge on the Jordan River Parkway that is between 6400 & 7800 South? It was probably built in the early 1900's and barely kept up the tracks. With a new TRAX line going out to West Jordan, the tressle has been replaced with a sleek new version.

This row of trucks with side dumps enters the railroad tracks next to the WJ cemetery, goes across the overpass on 7800 South heading north from Gardiner Village to dump their load along the way. They continue across the new bridge (pictured) and east past the huge new apartment complex called San Moritz (can be seen above the tressle in photo) built on the old tailings in Midvale (featured next week).

The construction has interrupted traffic on Redwood Road for several months and shut it down completely this weekend to add the new tracks. We'll keep you posted on the progress of TRAX and where its stops will be.

Take Your Own Trip Tour

2010-06-02T07:13:00.000-07:00

Our Victoria Island trip was axed. That was (my)the plan for Memorial week. We would stay with Jed & Breann one night, Jenn & Mike the next night then speed over to Vancouver, British Columbia. A short ferry ride to Victoria Island and Buschart Gardens taking in views to die for. The alternate was Portland then Astoria, Oregon and the coast.

They were bumped for the Schmidt Shoot Out on June 5-6th with the bros. You are all invited. In its second year, the skeet shooting, barbeque and general rough housing takes priority. Dad's nightime noisy sleep habits were the talk of the gang last year. This gave credence to my years of complaining.

With six days vacation I decided to do the grandchild tour. May 24 & 25 I spent watching Brayle & Hunter play ball, both doing exceptionally well. Each got runs in, caught fly balls & kept the team going. May 28th I headed for Twin Falls, spending the night with Breann & Jed. We enjoyed a down home breakfast at the Depot, a real live cafe. The average customer age was 45-55.

With a desire to see the grand children before they grow up, I headed north to Washinhgton arriving Saturday about 6pm. Emma at six months is changing by the minute with her curious eyes discoverying the world. Jacob speaks in complete sentences. Kade, the contractor is a super handyman. Noah has learned alot in first grade this year and ready for the summer break. Here are a few photos of things grandparents miss when they can't be around their posterity or sons-in-law.

Next stop, a cross country motor cycle ride to Jersey or bust!! That is after I buy a Harley & learn how to drive it.

Tours on Tuesday

2010-05-25T14:25:00.001-07:00

I take a 87 year old childless widow, who is the last survivor in her immediate family on outings most Mondays. These weekly rides in the car help her see something more than her 12x12 care center room. Talk about major 'shut-in-a-tosis'. Although it would be nice to drive all over Salt Lake, I try to keep close to home. There is more to see than you would think.

Tuesdays, I'll show you what we have discovered on our Ten Minutes from Home Tour. The Rio Tinto soccer stadium in Sandy is bigger & fancier than I originally invisioned. Notice the fancy illusion the colored seats make with the letters R, S & L (Real Salt Lake). The vertical lines announcing the venue's name on the front door entrance pull your eyes skyward.

Paul McCartney is scheduled to perform there on July 12th. To think, I could sit on the side of the freeway in my car with a fake flat tire & hear this famous icon's voice for free. Or perhaps I'll ride the city bus over that way for my daily walk.

When you are in town, come ride with us for an amazing 'Ten Minute from Home Tour'.

In the Interim

2010-05-19T15:33:00.000-07:00

I met Margaret a few years ago when I was trying to get to know all of the women on my Relief Society list. Many I had never heard and did not want any contact with the Church. Margaret didn't live in our ward boundaries, but was listed as living at her sister's home near me. With her care center address, I started to see this single little, lady on a monthly basis.

We became friends due to Margaret's loving nature. She was moved from one care center to another, until an apartment opened up at Legacy House Care Center nearby. Befriending her with consistent visits was easy.

Luck would have it when Allan & I were assigned as home teachers to some residents of Legacy, Margaret was one of the families we were given. With most of our grandchildren living out of state & extra time on our hands, we were able to accept this church calling.

How fun it is to go beyond that stiff feeling with meeting strangers to holding a special place in your heart for them. We continue to find ways to be friends.

Serving others always makes us feel better. If you are feeling lonely, climb out of your shell and go find a person that needs a friend. It's not as hard as it seems & twice as rewarding as chocolate or ice cream.

We Went to Women's Conference

2010-05-12T15:31:00.000-07:00

Breann & two of her sisters in law came from Idaho to go to Women's Conference at BYU. Alicia, the think ahead girl, asked if I would like her to buy me a ticket to the event for Mother's Day. I said, sure, so she did.

It was fun to spend time with Breann, racing across campus, Jay-walking every where, fighting for a seat and so on. She spent both Thursday & Friday in classes, at the concert and watching the crazy ladies using every possible second working on the Humanitarian projects. With only Friday to attend, I took in all the sights, sounds & wisdom of the wise (& a few dumb) speakers.

After getting an ice cream cone at the Creamery we stopped at Jory & Sarah's new home for a look around. Dad had Wok King waiting for us at home. All in all it was a great day.

Duck Date Deeded to Dadhood

2010-05-04T07:32:00.000-07:00

A devy of drakes found my roof as a date night drop-off point as they wooed this lovely female duck. A few weeks later I discovered her in my neighbor's flower beds next to the porch. She is sitting on close to a dozen eggs. The patient mother to be spends her days in the garden while the dad paddles in the stream out back of my house. Defensive is she, when I go nosing around taking photos & checking to see if the delivery date has arrived.

It won't be long now, until the happy couple are parents and daffy like the rest of us.

Street Treat

2010-04-29T06:15:00.001-07:00

We have skull candy, eye candy & such. Here's to the street treat that spring brings us. Everyday a different flowering tree is transformed into white, pink or rose shaded blooms. They remind me of churros. That yummy bummy treat on a stick
available at amusement parks.

You could also call them flower kabobs. Everywhere you look another tree or bush is bursting with blooms. Its hard to keep your eyes on the road. Thanks to cool rainy weather which extends their presence. Want to beautify the world, plant an ornamental flowering plum, crab apple, pear, & so on. It helps chase away the memory of winter faster than an angry wind.

The Give Away & Get Back Theory

2010-04-26T19:09:00.000-07:00

I found that when we give to others, we get back even more in return. It's like the movie 'Pay it Forward'.

Meet Maria Kapp. A happy senior with family who has basically forgotten about her. I make a point to visit weekly, in her assisted living apartment near me. With 24/7 time on her hands, hours to kill and no where to go, I take her for an occassional ride to brighten her day.

I met Maria while delivering Meals on Wheels. Her home was neat & tidy. Often she asked me to sweep her porch or get something from a high shelf. A widow for thirty years and childless, Maria lived with her brother, George until he died in 2007. Last summer her extended family put her in a care center & refused to allow her any choices in life promising to visit her more often. Isn't happening.

I try to be a bright spot in a string of lonely days. We have gone to lunch, for haircuts, stopped to take her picture by her childhood home & the condo, she lived in until last summer. Visiting her makes me feel better, too, just knowing I helped someone.

Be a positive influence in the life of an elderly/sick person, by visiting them. Whatever you give away, it will return to you ten fold.

A Change of Space

2010-04-16T15:54:00.000-07:00

After a year of using days of the week for my alliteration choices, my posts will now use choices for whenever & whatever moves me.

I've just completed the book, "Wake Up to a Happier Life" by Amanda Dickson, a dj for KSL radio. It's about finding happiness where we are now. Not happy? Then you are the only one that can do something about it. You have a choice to find happiness or stay stuck in a rut. It really is a choice we make.

Last month 'The Geography of Bliss' by Eric Weiner was the book we read (actually listened to on cd while driving to Washington). The author takes you on an international journey from Iceland to India searching for the country most happy with their lives and why. He visits, Moldovia, Switzerland, Butan, Great Britain, Katour and the USA. Mr. Weiner has been a writer for an international new group & is very articulate, even a bit snobbish in attitude while narrating his own book.

Passing the town of Bliss in our travels, we didn't take the time to stop off and ask if everyone that lived there was happy. It will be interesting to find out.

The contrast in attitude between the two authors and the motivation each give to find happiness in everyday life is quite different. Bottom line the only person who is with us our entire life, is ourselves. Be ALIVE while you are alive.

Wed: A Win at the Wynn

2010-04-14T13:57:00.000-07:00

A local radio station wants us to tune in every weekday at 7:15 am for a chance to win a one-night stay at the 5 star Wynn Hotel in Las Vegas, to see Garth Brooks in his sold out concert. No thank you. I'll pass.

The last & only concert I attended of Mr. Brooks was miserable to say the least. It wasn't so much the entertainer, as the decibels that left my ear drums sore for days. When the jumbo-tron is the main viewing source, because the place is so huge, why go? The crowds, parking, uncomfortable seats & tight leg room all play a part in the whole experience. Not to mention the out-of-sight price tag. Big & little name concerts with middlemen needing their cut, a cheap ticket is now $75.

Who can afford to take the family to see 'Dizzy' on Ice or some other child venue at those prices? Add in food, vendors & the hawks with their 'gotta have it' wares, spending $500 for a family of four is easy to do. There goes the monthly grocery budget & then some.

It would be cheaper to buy a movie projector & dvds, invite the neighbors over & enjoy these venues bigger than life in your own home. Now to make friends with someone named Wynn that has a nice projector system & you have really won.

Tues: 12% is Not Too Little Too Late

2010-04-13T07:53:00.000-07:00

Our winter water predictions ended March 31st. 68% to capacity isn't much to brag about when you have a whole summer ahead. Then it began to rain & snow for five full days.

We were out of town, but the curtain of storms met us, coming over the state border. The news casters reported 51 inches of snow at the ski resorts and the roads were closed for 36 hours. Although they said it was too little too late, how can that be? It amounted to 12% and boosted us to 78% water. Yeah!

Look at all the snow on our mountains. I know we are in trouble when the 'halter top' as I call it (center right in photo has shape of a halter top or bra) on Lone Peak mountain has no snow on it. By August if the snow on this part of the mountain has melted, we are okay. When it's disappeared & snow free by June, there will be water restrictions.

We continue to have cool weather & storms. Keep it coming. I say.

Mon: Mowing Mightily

2010-04-05T20:22:00.000-07:00

Did I tell you we mowed our lawn for the first time this year? Allan edged, I raked & we swept all the clippings away. No more low spots, dead bushes or crab grass. It really makes a difference. You may not even recognize the place. It is definitely more work to keep it groomed, but worth the effort.

It didn't even cost a thing, because it is the Manito Park in Spokane. It was donated to the city 100 years ago with the promise to always be open to the public. It's no less than 78 acres of native and cultivated landscape and 20 acres of world class botanical gardens. Comprised of five major garden areas, the Nishinomiya Tsutakawa Japanese Garden, Duncan Garden, Rose Hill, Lilac Garden and Ferris Perennial Garden, Manito Park is nationally recognized for its diverse horticultural displays. We had to snap a few photos of it while we were there last week.

Sun: The Son of Man

2010-04-04T15:12:00.000-07:00

'The bands of death shall be broken, and the Son reigneth, and hath power over the dead; therefore, he bringeth to pass the resurrection of the dead.' Mosiah 15:20

The hymn, 'He Is Risen' by Cecil Alexander, brings such exhileration, as we sing the words or hum the music. 'Christ, the Lord is risen today. Hallelujah!

Said the angel, “He is risen!”
Tell it out with joyful voice:
He has burst His three days’ prison;
Let the whole wide earth rejoice:
Death is conquered, we are free,
Christ has won the victory.

Come, ye sad and fearful hearted,
With glad smile and radiant brow!
Death’s long shadows have departed;
All our woes are over now,
Due to passion that He bore—
Sin and pain can vex no more.

Come, with high and holy hymning,
Chant our Lord’s triumphant day;
Not one darksome cloud is dimming
Yonder glorious morning ray,
Breaking over the purple east:
Brighter far our Easter feast.

He is risen, He is risen!
He has opened Heaven’s gate:
We are free from sin’s dark prison,
Risen to a holier state;
And a brighter Easter beam
On our longing eyes shall stream.

Without a doubt the best news for each of us, to know we will continue to live on in our spirits after death until resurrection morning. Our bodies will then reunite with our spirits & be joined together forever. All the sorrow, pain & selfishness will work itself out and glory will reign in its stead.

Go to www.cyberhymnal.org for music & words.

Thur: These Things for Me

2010-04-01T15:19:00.000-07:00

'He cometh into the world that he may save all men if they will hearken unto his voice; for behold, he suffereth the pains of all men, yea, the pains of every living creature, both men, women, and children, who belong to the family of Adam.' 2 Ne 2:21

In Lloyd Newell's book, When Ye Shall Receive These Things, it states, "To redeem is to purchase or buy back. When we sin, we essentially sell ourselves to the devil, for we sell ourselves short of all we could be. As we come unto Christ by covenant, our Divine Redeemer offers to purchase us, to buy us back, to reclaim us, to reinstate us in the royal family."

Jesus did these things for you & me. What a great gift to have for the taking, if we will but promise to honor Him we can be free of all of our sins & eternal life, too.

"For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life." John 3:16

'They do not love, that do not show their love.' William Shakespeare.
Thank you, Lord.

Tue: 'Til all my works reflect thy goodness.'

2010-03-30T12:45:00.000-07:00

Our works do reflect the intent of our hearts. It takes a willing mind & motivation to move us out of our complacency from wanting & intending, to doing good.
The world is full of 'I should haves'.

The last verse to "Write Thy Name Upon My Heart' by Sally Deford, talks about service.

"Grant me strength to serve thee well.
Light my spirit with thy grace.
‘Til all my works reflect thy goodness.
‘Til all my labors sing thy praise.
Endow my soul with loving kindness.
Make me even as thou art.
Engrave thine image in my countenance.
Write thy name upon my heart."

Have you noticed that even when you think you have no more to give, if a friend cries out to you.....you will find the strength to help?

Sometimes serving others lands in our lap. A just out of the oven batch of goodies or bread gives us the desire, to share. Do you have extra time available? Visit the sick or elderly. If flowers are on sale, make several arrangements & take to those whose hands hang down.

Rick Warren of 'A Purpose Driven Life' said, "I may live 60 to 100 years on earth, but I am going to spend trillions of years in eternity. This is the warm-up act - the dress rehearsal. God wants us to practice on earth what we will do forever in eternity.." & "One of the easiest ways to get rid of pain is to get your focus off yourself and onto God and others."

Everyone wins when we forget ourselves in the service of others. Without much effort His name & image become part of us. We can write His name on our hearts every day of our lives.

Fri: Finding Faith in Christ

2010-03-26T15:34:00.000-07:00

The second verse in 'Write Thy Name Upon My Heart' by Sally Deford explains ways to draw nearer to Him, as we prepare for Easter. It shows that we can deal with challenges, coming away as the victor. Tolerating others, with hands extended out to help is possible.

"When battles rage, when storms arise,
Make me a messenger of peace.
Teach me tolerance and meekness
And faith to bid the tempest cease.
Endow my soul with loving kindness.
Make me even as thou art.
Engrave thine image in my countenance.
Write thy name upon my heart."

Where do we go for strength to overcome our personal tempests? It takes alot of faith to turn our life over to Christ, letting him carry the load. Satan wants us to be in turmoil and unhappy. Submit yourself to the Savior. Humbly allow his love to wash over you.

Kathy, a woman I deliver Meals on Wheels to, recently lost a friend. She had opened her home to him, while he battled with homelessness & cancer. A lisening ear, to talk about how it happened. She found him deceased, in the bathroom late one night. She had no one to help, in getting the proper notifications. Hugs & caring made a big difference for her.

Peoples eyes glisten and their countenance radiate Christ's image, when they reach out to help themselves & others in need.

Wed: Write Thy Name Upon My Heart

2010-03-24T09:51:00.000-07:00

With Easter fast approaching, it's time to contemplate the atonement of the Savior.
It can be difficult being 'At one with Jesus' in thought & attitude. In this world of making another buck & getting ahead, how do we submerse our lives with Him?

'Always remember me' isn't the easiest thing to keep in mind. 'Take His name upon you' is forgotten in the heat of the moment. How do we prepare for Christ?

The words to the song, 'Write Thy Name Upon My Heart' by Sally Deford, shows specific ways to help us draw near to Him. We really do try to make changes for the better. There is a compassionate, loving soul within us. We need more than a desire to imprint His name on our hearts though. Memorizing scripture verses, touching words to music & quotes help us feel & visualize ways to be more like Him.

"Write thy name upon my heart
Jesus, Savior of mankind.
Teach me charity unfailing.
Teach me compassion Lord like thine.
Endow my soul, with loving kindness.
Make me even as thou art.
Engrave thine image in my countenance.
Write thy name upon my heart."

Copy this first of three verses. Carry it around with you. Read each line over & over, while trying to incorporate the gentle words in your daily life. Imagine writing 'Jesus, Savior' in your best penmanship literally on your heart. It will become easier to find ways show charity & compassion?

While standing in an eternal check-out line yesterday, a boy asked if I would let him in ahead of me, because he had 1 item. I promptly said, No! I had waited for the 400 items the shopper ahead of me (15 items or less counter) had, was my reply. Coming to my senses I switched gears & apologized, then had to nearly beg him to get in front of me. What courage it takes to ask a stranger for help. I felt much better about the situation.

To listen to or get the music go to defordmusic.com

Mon: March Madness

2010-03-22T20:30:00.000-07:00

Every year the NCAA collegiate basketball games provide a bracket for anyone who wants to join a pool to rank the games of each region & see how many we can guess correctly. Folks use all kinds of theories while choosing who will face off against whom. Our QA man chose them alphabetically. I usually pick West over East. Some even follow the teams from the beginning & win the $50 pot every year. I have 36 points so far. The leader, a single guy that follows the games religiously, is at 46.

Syracuse vs Butler & Kansas State against Xavier will be playing in Salt Lake on Thursday. The winners of each face off on Saturday. Tickets start at $112 for the three games. $413 for the best seats. Perhaps we'll hang around outside the Energy Solutions Center or just drive by for good luck to say, 'We were there!'

I predicted Kansas to play Kansas State in the championship game. So far one of them is still competing. The little known Northern Iowa ranked near the bottom upset Kansas this weekend. Who did you choose for the Final Four playing in the Lucas Oil Stadium home of the Colts on Easter weekend? UCLA won the year I graduated from high school. Villanova twenty five years later & Kansas won a few years ago.

May the best team win!!

Thur: Thousand Sheets Test

2010-03-18T13:53:00.000-07:00

Think of how quickly toilet paper disappears on the roll, faster than the dials on a gambling machine. This is especially so, when you have children. Changing rolls more than we care to, caused me to buy one of those 1000 sheet single rolls of Scott tissue or the like store brand. At $.50 a roll, it seemed a better choice than a package of four rolls (175 square each) of 2 ply thickness for $1+.

Basically one roll is equal to 6 regular ones. Granted, the sheets appear to be .001 mil thick. The paper's as sheer as a nylon stocking. Ten squares are needed for adequate coverage, to even come close to the better brands. Remember, its half the cost for twice as much product. The bonus is that the roll lasts & lasts. I've had one of these mega rolls in use all week long. Reminds me of the 'Energizer' bunny. Now to stock up for when the grandkids come. They always use more than necessary and quantity is more important than quality for the little ones.

Put the 1000 roll to the test. You'll never be caught at the worst time empty handed again.

Tues: Trunk or Tree

2010-03-16T21:23:00.000-07:00

I pass this amazing tree on my way to work and have watched it over the years. It's fascinating how the vine has nearly engulfed the entire trunk, if there is one under there somewhere. Look how healthy & green in the middle of winter the dependent vine is. Even more surprising, that the tree is still alive. Do they support one another or is the future of the tree at risk? It's common for one plant to take all the energy of the other, overcome it & death happens. Both lose in this case.

"Me lift thee, thee lift me and we shall ascend together" is the quote for the Texas North Mission. I think of this saying with the tree & vine working together to achieve something rare & unique. It almost looks like a giant gloved hand reaching to the heavens.

Wed: Wayward Weekend

2010-03-10T14:27:00.000-08:00

'Choose the Right' that's my motto unless rebellion sets in, which it did this past weekend. Two movies: Bad Boys II (toned down for TV) & School for Scoundrels (not rated)on dvd took my mind from nice gal to smart alec real quick. This set the stage for gossiping about the absent relatives, to everyone I encountered at the family reception.

Although I fasted for the people of Chile to get help, not once did I contemplate their state or how to assist them. During the Sacrament, my mind was full of worldly thoughts, humility & bearing my testimony was out of the question. My 'I want my mama' nursery job was burdensome. I considered quiting while the kids cried.

I've made a rule of not reading my current book of the week on Sunday, spending my time in the scriptures, Ensign or upcoming lessons. Undaunted by Gerald Lund is like a church book I convinced myself, after finishing off 50 pages; but didn't feel inspired by it. Negative & not nice thoughts climbed the growing pyramid of anger in my mind, after yielding to temptations so readily.

No wonder I awoke at 12:50 am with a splitting headache. I quickly decided the Jackpot type weekend wasn't the answer to peace. How would the week proceed with no spirituality in my heart? Getting on my knees, I asked the Lord to forgive my faulty ways, pleading Him to continue to remind me to 'stay the course' when tempted to stray. We are both working on it. I appreciate He proves that each one of us is more precious than gold, through the Atonement freely offered to all.

Mon: The More the Merrier

2010-03-08T07:56:00.000-08:00

There were ten in the bed & the little one said, "I'm crowded, roll over!"

This has been our life for the past sixteen days, as we have been host house to the Wightman wedding party. Hotel Schmidt ended today, with the final four extended family flying home to Florida. Friday night we had a total of thirteen people, in town for Courtney's Wightman's wedding &/or Hunter's baptism.

The guests were:
Breann & Jed in the yellow room with their own air mattress from home. They're here for the baptism.
The pink room went to Tony & Ann Wightman with son, Tucker (5).
Dallas (21), Courtney (20) (the bride), & Jen, the friend, slept in Jory's room.
Hunter (19) & Austin (17) got the living room floor.
The married daughter Brigitte & her two children, Bo & Gage, took the playroom.

Our adventure began February 19th with three cousins arriving from Florida. It gradually increased every few days until reaching thirteen this weekend. Our shower, computer, washer, dryer & TV were going 24/7 or so it seemed. I contemplated putting an 'Occupied' sign on the bathroom door. If hot water was desired, a 5 a.m. shower was the only option.

With the house all a buzz, the breakfast buffet rivaled the complimentary ones offered at your favorite motel. Thanks to Kristine Pryor for her sweet dough & grapefruit contributions (some extra she had after a ward party). I whipped up some cream cheese frosted cinnamon rolls, added a fresh fruit platter, toast & such. It all came in handy while feeding the masses.

On Sunday, while twelve worn out guests (the bride was gone)slept in, showered, shaved & such, I sought refuge in my bedroom for the morning to claim back a little peace & quiet.

By Monday, there was only one in the bed & she said, "This feels soooo good!" And it was!

Thur: Thermostat Theory

2010-03-04T12:19:00.000-08:00

With nineteen days of winter to go, I still have yet to program my thermostat to turn on, off or both according to plan. Instead, I prefer to do it manually. If I forget, our gauge stays at the 63' setting until a chill runs up my back or we have company coming. Wouldn't want others to know our home temperature is similar to Antarctica's. Allan is very wise not touch the dial. Although he has my verbal approval.

This is how I keep our equal pay for a two furnace home at $39. A year ago some scuttlebutt was on the news about Questar Gas under charging some residents. For four months the bill shot up to $121, which I paid without complaint. After recovering their losses, the original amount was restored. If the government, banks & debtors could run on that premise, how nice it would be.

Soon I won't even need to adjust the thermostat. With Spring a few weeks away,
the snow & cold will be forgotten until the end of the year. Thanks, Mother Nature.

Tues: Take It, Don't Leave It

2010-03-02T15:29:00.000-08:00

Where was my mind last week when I was shopping? Have you ever been chased out of the store by the clerk carrying the bags you left on the counter or arrived home empty handed? It's maddening to have to return & claim your goods.

I was so excited about using my $5 gift card, $3.10 in coupons & the $2 rebate after buying some things at Rite Aid, that I walked off without my purchases.
The next day when I needed the shaving cream I'd bought & couldn't find it anywhere, I decided it must be at the store. The employee on the phone identified my items & said he'd hold them until I made it back. Mine wasn't the only bag on the shelf waiting for its owner.

Why is it our minds zone out at the tiniest distraction? We forget the task at hand. Often I've had to remind myself over & over, so as not to forget to do or say something. Minutes later it's out of sight out of mind.

Perhaps we should strap it to our backs, then we won't forget.

Fri: Family for a Fortnight

2010-02-26T15:13:00.000-08:00

I've had guests (long lost cousins) staying with me since Feb 19th. Total time they will be with us is two weeks, maybe longer. This Friday, four more family members arrive from Florida & Arizona. What fun to meet & get to know our relatives (Tony's wife, Ann & children, Courtney, Austin & Tucker) for the first time.

The wedding is March 6th in the Salt Lake Temple for Courtney Wightman (cousin, Tony's daughter) & Kurtis Pullan of Sandy, UT. They met while attending BYU Idaho. Tony is Aunt June (Grandma Crane's sister) son.

They love our floppy air bed with its rolled up blanket supports. Willingly, they eat the wheat muffins, homemade toast, cooked cereal, yogurt & granola offerings for breakfast. Floridians don't have furnaces, so the heat settings don't faze them. Ann & I have alot in common. We actually are kindred spirits when it comes to homemade food & being economical. She has no brothers, I tease & call her, sis.

As a child we traveled through Idaho headed for reunions & would often stop at my dad's long lost cousins to have a meal or stay the night. I wondered how the relatives felt about our surprise visits. To a teenager it was very embarrassing. If they had kids my age to play with, it wasn't so bad.

More than once we've imposed on relatives while vacationing at Disneyland, Nebraska, Colorado & such. What a savings it is in lieu of hotel costs & makes the trip possible. We definitely have a place to stay on our next trip to Florida.

Wed: Where There's A Will, There's a Way

2010-02-24T14:48:00.001-08:00

I used to be petrified of escalators, cried while grabbing the moving rubber railing & froze at the entrance afraid my feet would be chewed up. That never happened & gradually I overcame the fear. It's surprising the things we imagine or fear as children. After growing up we even chide ourselves & discover along the way, that 'where there's a will there's a way'.

Many have a fear of speaking in public, heights, falling, snakes & more. Taking a speech class in high school helped me overcome a public speaking anxiety. Staring down a fear with strength & courage is really a great, accomplished feeling.

Putting our faith in the Lord is a major step forward in facing our fears. Ether 12: 27 says, 'And if men come unto me I will show unto them their weakness. I give unto men weakness that they may be humble; and my grace is sufficient for all men that humble themselves before me; for if they humble themselves before me, and have faith in me, then will I make weak things become strong unto them.'

Mauri & Aaron spoke in Church on Valentine's Day & did a great job. Together they found out how good it feels to face fear, put their trust in the Lord and speak to a congregation. I was proud they talked the entire time. Mauri took 10 minutes & Aaron 30. They told about love, neighbors & the blessings of being members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. This proves 'our will' is stronger than 'fear' when we find a way.

We can 'Do It!' & it feels good.

Mon: Miracle of the Apple Tree

2010-02-22T19:14:00.000-08:00

About a dozen years ago we planted an apple tree that hasn't produced much. The most we've gotten is three bushel of mostly wormy apples in the good years. Apple trees alternate with heavy then light years. If we were diligent about spraying to kill the coddling moth we'd get bugless apples, but we don't. It's common to cut 1/2 of the apple away to insect invasions & not much fun to cut one open full of worms either.

With all the rain we had last spring & cool weather at the right times to discourage the moths our tree produced about eight bushel. Miraculously we still have good firm apples that've lasted all winter long. Usually red delicious meat goes soft or spoils towards Christmastime. This year however, none have spoiled & the box never seems to get empty. We bottled, dried, gave boxes for others to dry, made apple desserts & continue to have an abundance of still more to eat.

Bags of dried apples have been shared with others. They curb our hungry appetites while driving in the car & keep us eating healthy on a daily basis.

Why is this? I call it a miracle & blessing from the Lord as he helps us get through another year of less than normal income. Its His way of helping us out & our need to recognize it, as well as be grateful for His loving care.

Thur: Thriving on Thrifty

2010-02-18T06:16:00.000-08:00

My son-in-laws all think (on second thought, they know!) I'm thrifty. I have to agree with them. The current economic crisis forces us to tighten our belts & we respond. That doesn't mean we have to sit home & watch TV. We can still shop, go to lunch & movies, too. What satisfaction we get when we meet these needs for pennies on the dollar. It makes you feeeel so good.

Ikea treated the grandkids to a free lunch on Presidents Day. The $.75 Monday Movies provided Planet 51 laughs. Free ice skating helped Brayle & Hunter decide if they want to prepare for the 2020 Olympics. Yes, Aaron, I'm cheap & smart,too. You could say I saved $35 ($10 on lunch, $15.75 @the movies & $9.25 skating). With that $35 I could get gas, groceries or buy your birthday present.

That's one way I stretch my dollars. Go to One Cheap Chick & find more bargains: http://blogs.sltrib.com/cheap

A stop at the DI netted 10 pieces of Naturewood dishes made by Pfaltzgraff. On the website they sell for $7.99 each. I paid $.50 per item. Yes, I could have spent my money on pop, pork or pretzels, but that's the beauty of freedom. We can buy what we want. I'm giving away my Corelle bowls. Would anyone like them?

Tue: Temple View Was a Bonus Treat

2010-02-16T14:40:00.000-08:00

Some dear friends, Trell & Dave Beatty, treated us to dinner at the Garden Restaurant on top of the Joseph Smith Memorial Building this week. It's not the Roof but right next door & has terrific views of the Salt Lake Temple for a fraction of the cost, which unfortunately, we forgot to take pictures of.

We couldn't resist a photo by the ice sculpture that greeted guests. Our camera was in the car so Trell's i-phone did the job. Dave is from Kentucky & investigating the Church so we accompanied them on the Conference Center tour and saw the movie, Joseph Smith, Prophet of the Restoration. It's not that hard to help an investigator when there's a prize at the end. We were on our best behavior.

The view of the temple was pretty amazing, too. Anyone can see it. Just go to the tenth floor of the JSM building, walk west to the picture windows & see the view 'from the top.' The airport is only few miles away. You're almost level with the planes as they descend then land. It's a totally different feeling.

Fri: Five Star Friends

2010-02-12T06:36:00.001-08:00

We all find ourselves feeling lonely on occassion & a friend is just the thing to help us out. They sure are nice to have along for a hike, company & to talk to.
Have you noticed how many different levels of friends we have? You could even rate them like hotels. Spouses fit into these rating as well since they are our friends.

1* Friends -Those that pretend to like you, but may talk about you behind your back. Immature, annoying, and even call when they need you but disappear when you need them. These are the co-dependent kind that become a burden not a joy to be around.

2** Friends -Those at church we know superficially, smile, say Hello to, but don't usually know much beyond that.

3*** Friends -High school chums that you email, meet a few times a year to lunch with and have lots of history with. Your lives are too busy now to keep front & center. You still enjoy talking about old times & such.

4**** Friends -Girlfriends that listen, are compassionate, helpful, there when you need them, dependable & come to your rescue often. Telling innermost thoughts & ideas as you babble back & forth about anything and everything. Often kindred spirits without really having to spend alot of time together. Its easy to pick up where you left off.

5***** Friends- These do the same as the four star friends & more when they listen patiently, resist complaining about our faults, do the dumb things we ask them to without complaining & love us for who we are. Compliments & kudos lift us up when we are down.

Thanks, Allan for being a five star friend.

Wed: Waiting for the Winter Olympics

2010-02-10T13:09:00.000-08:00

The 2010 Winter Olympics begin in a few days in Vancouver, BC. It wasn't that long ago they were here in SLC. The city was decorated to the nines with buildings dressed in 40 x 150 foot pictures of the athletes. The calderon burned on the U of U campus & the six Olympic rings shone on the mountain all night. Traffic was terrible everywhere, but excitement trumped our frustrations.

Some family members even attended events such as cross country skiing, skating, the winter festivities & downtown hub bub. The torch was a big thing as people were selected to run with it weeks before the opening ceremonies. 8 oz bottles of Coke, pins & such were given away free as well as other memorabilia.

What does it take to qualify for an Olympian? Faith in yourself, determination to not quit, a supportive family, unbelievable drive and so much more. Who knows perhaps they will allow angel makers, snowshoe slackers & snowman designers to compete one day. We will be there, I know it!

Let the games begin!! Hopefully it will motivate us to do something great.