apryl jensen

Halloween Fun

2010-10-30T21:21:00.000-07:00

When Rome, enjoy the food. And when home, make knockoffs

2010-06-11T23:19:00.000-07:00

√

Olive Garden Hot Artichoke Spinach Dip

1 Cup chopped artichoke hearts (canned or frozen & thawed)
1/2 cup frozen chopped spinach, thawed
8 oz. cream cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon garlic powder
dash black pepper
On the side
Crackers
Chips
or Sliced toasted Pitas ( or baguette slices)
Boil the spinach and artichoke hearts in a cup of water in a small saucepan over medium heat until tender, about 10 minutes. Drain in a colander when done. Heat the cream cheese in a small bowl in the microwave set on high for 1 minute. Or, use a saucepan to heat the cheese over medium heat just until hot. Add the spinach and artichoke hearts to the cream cheese and stir well. Add the remaining ingredients to the cream cheese and combine.
Serve hot with crackers, chips, or toasted pitas for dipping.

Birthday Fun for Justy Boy

2010-06-02T11:37:00.000-07:00

Justin eyes his Shrek green birthday cake.

Getting pics at Chuck E Cheese.

With a surprise appearance from Uncle Zeke. And Jasen being a goof...love that expression.

And Jordan is found where he often is...in the arms of his oldest brother, Jairen.

Happy Birthday Justin! Nine years old!

I just love this...

2010-06-02T11:32:00.001-07:00

The Logan Adventure

2010-05-27T20:24:00.000-07:00

Okay...that van was just too funny to not take a picture of. At least she's Big & Friendly!

Here are some pics from our Logan Memorial Adventure.

Linda's helping to plant some flowers. In case you wondered.

Who doesn't love Rootbeer Flavored Milk? We stopped at the Gossner Cheese Factory for samples and treats.

And here's Jordan at Pepperidge Farm. He liked the cookies. Any my purse. It's his favorite chew toy.

Happy Memorial Day!

Little bally balls

2010-05-17T21:47:00.001-07:00

Pattern found here.

My sweet boysies...

2010-05-13T17:45:00.000-07:00

Mother's Day Fun

2010-05-13T17:44:00.000-07:00

Knitted this purse for Mom, and crocheted the flowers. Then made these corsages, which was super fun.

Then these little silver buckets have flower pens, for mom and the grandmas.

It was a fun, fun day!

Yay for Flowies (a.k.a. Hey Jenna! A solution for non-hat heads!)

2010-05-02T16:24:00.000-07:00

Hats and I do not get along. I love hats...but they don't love me. Dorkarama.

But, I just knitted this awesome little headband (band pattern I made up, and flower crochets from a pattern I got at Piper's in Sugar House). And it's actually CUTE. Like, when it's ON ME. Rather than just laying on my dresser. Hats could never pull this off.

It does help to pull some hair out to go over the band (not out of your head...just out from behind the band), but, hey, that's HAT GOOD enough for me!

Check out the Before and After....

Can it really be?

It's a HAT MIRACLE!

And, here's a hat oldie but goodie. Jordan tries out cousin Colin's hat for size. Wow...he was so tiny!

Cupcake Love

2010-05-01T14:12:00.000-07:00

Today was a cupcake kind of day.

I was feeling a bit...blah...so it always helps to DO SOMETHING, so, after seeing these lovely cupcakes from Joanne's month in review, I decided I must have them.

I followed Saucy's spunky, ignore the directions directions, and created these lovely morsels of cupcake goodness.

Quick directions:

You will need: one package of cake mix (use the good kind... Betty Crocker or Duncan Hines), three large eggs, one half cup of butter or margarine, and one cup of water. Saucy usually bakes with butter - she's a butter fan - but for a batch of cupcakes from a mix, margarine will do just fine. 350 for 20 min.

I even learned to toast coconut (5 minutes on a cookie sheet at 350, in case you were wondering).

And I put on my own spunky tank.

(It's true...I will be nicer).

I found I was missing the cream cheese, so I'll have to run to the store to try that kind of frosting later. I did, however, find a cream cheese BOX in the fridge. Good thing it didn't spoil. (thanks, kids). I opted for the almost gone frosting left over from...yipe...St. Patrick's Day. It was still tasty.

Mmmmm....cupcake love.

And last, but certainly not least, I ordered some yarn for this lovely cardigan from the latest Interweave Knits:

I hope the skinny arms are included.

aj

Back in the {Sculpting} Saddle Again...

2010-04-29T16:57:00.000-07:00

It's been way too long since I've been sculpting regularly. Most of my day goes to this little cutie:

I'm working on a new sculpt, this male below, and then here are a bunch of WIP pics of various dolls that are waiting oh so patiently....

That's funny...that last guy looks quite startled. Been playing with premade eyes...and it's still a work in progress. I'll have to close those lids a bit, or sculpt him with a huge spider beside him!

Do you Ravelry?

2010-04-28T22:29:00.000-07:00

This site is so fun for knitting and crochet. I keep a photo journal of all my fiber projects there, and highly recommend it. You can find me here.

Hmmm...I never thought I'd have a little baby, and a 16 year old. Steph's approaching adulthood, and Jordan is just getting started with life. It's fun to watch their different stages.

Knitting Progress....

2010-04-28T22:14:00.000-07:00

Trying my hand at 2 at a Time Socks using this book. So far, it makes for a mess of yarn and knitting cables...but it's interesting. I'd like to see if I can actually finish these socks. Yeah...two different colors. That's to keep you from getting too confused. Hmmm....I'll probably need more help than that!

And then I made this baby bib, out of cotton yarn.

Is it just me or is it hard to write between pics with the new blogger style?

So I'll just comment here....the pink is a new summer sweater I'm working on, and the the stripey zigzag is for a pillow...and that's crochet, not knitting.

Then a cool crochet flower, some clovers, and granny squares in some fun, springy colors.

And then the cabled baby vest for Jordan...that is still way too big, but at least it's done...minus a button or two. And lastly, his baby blanket. About half done, and one of my first experiments with crochet.

Jordan meets Chocolate cookie

2010-04-28T21:54:00.000-07:00

Up to lately...

2010-04-28T21:39:00.000-07:00

I found Jasen with Jordan and he'd given his little brother a Keebler Elf cookie. Jordan's first experience with chocolate. He looks as shocked as I was.

Next, we've been working on some Harry Potter wands. We went through all the movies over Spring Break, got Harry Potter scars (you may have seen us decked out on Facebook...even Jordan had one), then Jasen bought some hair dye and he and Justin now sport Harry Potter hair, so the wands were the final touch.

I love it when you snap pics and they have no idea you even have the camera out. Jasen helped me get them painted using the supplies shown above. Just wooden dowels with some Apoxy Sculpt (but you could use Premo clay). They actually turned out pretty cool, and very woody looking.

Jordan was so darn cute with that cookie.

Cool Easter Eggs

2010-03-16T15:41:00.000-07:00

How to do Pysanky
http://www.learnpysanky.com/

Fun YouTube Video here

Knit Tips

2010-03-16T15:38:00.000-07:00

Good site on reading knitting charts

Crochet Videos

Almost Done with the Karma Tank...

2010-02-04T21:53:00.000-08:00

First of all, Kudos to Blogger for finally making pictures easier to insert where you want them. That's helpful. So, here's the tank...I love this close up of the herringbone pattern it uses:

And, here's my little cutie:

Veggie Pizza

2010-02-04T11:16:00.000-08:00

So easy. Bake cresent rolls flat for the crust, spread with cream cheese, sprinkle with garlic salt, top with veggies. Ta Da!

Knitting Progress

2010-02-04T11:12:00.000-08:00

Here we have a iPod cozy (that's a fun word), a hat for Jordan, a hat for Colin...if it ever makes it to Germany, and a hat for Lani...with the same Germany stipulation. Hopefully it has, otherwise, suprise, Lani!

Tip: The 5 Minute Lunch Miracle

2010-02-03T17:01:00.000-08:00

We are getting up way too ~~fricking~~ early these days trying to get Steph to school by 7:30, a half hour away (with 6 kids in tow) so I came up with this idea of spending just a few minutes each day on creating lunch items (or, just taking them out of the packaging...that takes work too...sort of).

Then I have a box (the "Lunch Box"--catchy name, eh?) full of these items. The idea is that the kids can grab several items and have a lunch ready in no time. They can even make a sandwich and still pull it together in less than 5 minutes. And on the days we have one minute, they just grab and go. Very helpful.

And yes, those are graham crackers with frosting inside. Did you ever eat those as a kid? Why do they taste better after sitting in the fridge overnight? I had a roommate in college, Wendy, that taught me the graham cracker yumminess.

Recipe: Sausage with Potato Pasta

2010-02-03T16:55:00.000-08:00

Potato Pasta (it has some fancy name...Perigolies? Pergiolies? I don't know. It's pasta with potatoes inside and is surprisingly good. And way to carb it up, eh?)

Veggie Sausage. I like the links from Morning Star better than the Tofurky Italian...those are too spicy for me.

Mushrooms.

Saute it all in some butter and in about 10 minutes, dinner's ready. Voila!

Recipe: Raw chocolate chia energy bars

2010-02-03T16:51:00.000-08:00

These are so yummy. And healthy too!

Don't be scared. Sometimes healthy and yummy looks like that. I ate them too fast to get a finished photo.

Ingredients
1 1/2 c Pitted dates (I just used the date bits at good earth and soaked them in water)
1/3 c Cacoa powder
1/3 c Chia seeds
1/2 t Vanilla extract
1/4 t Almond extract
1 c Slivered almonds
1 Oat flour for dusting

Preparation
Process dates, then add all but almonds. Process. Add almonds. Process. Spread on waxed paper. Chill over night. Cut into bars.

And these are the date bits that I get from Good Earth.

Recipe: Cinnamon Chocolate Chip Butterballs

2010-02-03T16:43:00.000-08:00

Prep. time (min):10
Cooking time (min):10
Servings:24

Ingredients
1 3/4 cups All-purpose Flour
1/2 cup Powdered sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons Cinnamon
1/2 tsp Salt
1 cup Cold butter
1/4 to 1/3 cup Mini chocolate chips (or go crazy if you are a chocolate lover...the original said 1 cup! bleck!)
1 tsp Vanilla
1/2 cup Powdered sugar
1 tsp Cinnamon

Preparation
Mix first dry ingredients together. Mix in butter with a pastry blender. Add chips and vanilla. Bake at 400• for 7-9 minutes. After cooling on rack for 25 minutes, roll in mixture of remaining sugar & cinnamon.

Me Time

2010-02-03T16:07:00.000-08:00

I've decided that blog time is me time. It nourishes my soul. Plus, since I happen to be something of a whirlwind, I like to leave a trail so I can remember what I've been up to. And, I like to know I've been doing SOMETHING productive. If I don't see it, I'm liable to forget. Out of sight, out of mind, as they say. So...first...the push-ups report. Sadly, I had a wicked cold/sinus infection that knocked me off the wagon. There was no way anything involving tipping my head forward was going to happen. I'm better now and ready to start again except for two things...~~laziness and a general dislike of exercise~~, uh-um...I started on too hard a level and I don't know how to reset my iPod app on the easier one (so I'll actually do it) and my wrists are killing me each time. A sculptor really values her wrists. So, we'll see. If I don't decide to continue with the pushups, I'll switch over to 100 squats (which catches my interest more anyway) and do these 6 minute workouts.

We'll see. I have been walking on warm days with Jordan. I find it's great to go...about now...later afternoon when the kids are in the living room (bouncing off the walls?) enjoying themselves noisily. Suddenly I'm much more motivated to get out of the house...go figure.

Next, I'm going to figure out labels on this thing because I like to talk about a lot of different subjects and having several blogs is confusing for me. I do better if I put everything in one place. But I'll have labels to sort for you...if you just want sculpting or knitting info or whatever. Any tips on how to make a side widget for that are welcome.

Oh...hey...never saw that Show All button by the labels before. That will make life easier!

Speaking of goals (I guess that was my topic in a round about way), here's a cute little PDF on Goals and Manifesting.

Hundred push ups report

2010-01-09T19:34:00.001-08:00

Well, I did my initial test to see where I was at tonight. I opted for knee pushups since I've been in better shape and I don't want to try to do too much, discourage myself, and then do nothing (gee, has that ever happened before?)

The results?

13

Probaby could have done more if my life depended on it, but 13 had me sure I'll be hurting tomorrow...in a good way.

Hundred pushups, here we go!

Sending love and light,

Apryl

Photo by Stephanie

Call to Action

2010-01-06T22:19:00.001-08:00

I received this in a Leo Quinn Newsletter. I like the way he thinks.

Letter:

*Within 6 weeks I will do 100 pushups
at one time. I'm following the plan at
www.hundredpushups.com

I'm doing this for two reasons: 1) I will
be stronger at the end and I'll have a
terrific sense of accomplishment, I think.

2) They've laid out a simple step by step
plan, that frankly, makes it look easy.
It takes at most 10 minutes a day and
we get every other day off!

Nothing to buy or sign up for so check it out.
You in?

*When setting your goals make them ACTION
goals rather than result goals. For the most
part we can control our actions but we can't
control the results we get from those actions.

So instead of making it a goal to weigh X pounds
by a certain date, make your goal to exercise
a certain amount of time each week and limit
your calories to whatever makes sense.

Assuming you've done nothing like this before,
you will lose weight, but if you don't hit your
goal weight when you had planned that might
discourage you.

Set action goals for fitness, savings, income,
relationships, debt or anything else you'd normally
set goals for.

Recipe: Lemon Passion Cake -- Macaroni Grill

2009-12-29T17:48:00.001-08:00

So, I've been searching for the recipe for Lemon Passion Cake from Macaroni Grill. I found the TSR version (Top Secret Recipes) and I'd give it a 6 out of 10. It's yummy, but seems sweeter than the real deal. I don't remember having a sugar rush hit so fast and furiously at the restaurant...though I do usually share mine with Randy, and then take half of it home with me.

***News Flash***24 hours later, having spent the day in the fridge, this cake jumps up to 8 out of 10. Yummy enough that I'd definitely make it again. In fact, I was going to take it up to my folks to share, but it's rapidly disappearing around here. It must be a hit.

This cake is similar to Tres Leche cakes. Here are some pics and the recipe for your viewing enjoyment:

No way is that all going to sink in....

Hey! It sank in!

Spreading with lemon mousse...

Et voila! If only I had a mint leave and could find my lemon zester... The whip cream lost its oomph in the fridge, but it was yummy.

The taste testers....

Yummy but sweet and Justin thought the cake tasted like corn bread. It doesn't. But it was an interesting critique.

Recipe:

Top Secret Recipes® version of Romano's Macaroni Grill® Lemon Passion
By Todd Wilbur

Menu Description: "Citrus cake soaked in a sweet cream, topped with lemon mousse and finished off with our fresh Italian whipped cream and caramel."

When creating this delicious dessert, chefs at Romano's must have been thinking about the Tres Leches Cake that is popular throughout Latin America. The traditional Mexican recipe describes a dense vanilla cake that is soaked with three types of milk: Whole milk, sweetened condensed milk, and evaporated milk. This creates a very moist and rich dessert that is an excellent finish to pretty much any meal. Romano's twist on the traditional favorite is the addition of citrus juices to the cake, a creamier soaking liquid, and a tangy lemon topping. I first tried recreating the cake with boxed mixes, but they all produce cakes that are much too light and moist, and therefore turn to mush when soaked in the sweet liquid. The final solution is a scratch cake recipe that yields denser, yet still moist citrus cake that holds up to the inevitable drenching. Still, you will want to eat this dessert with in a day or two of the soaking or it may start to get all gooey on you. And be sure to store any leftovers in the fridge.

CAKE

1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 cup butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
4 eggs
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 cup lemon juice
1/4 cup orange juice

LEMON MOUSSE TOPPING

8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 3/4 cups powdered sugar
3 tablespoons lemon juice
1 drop yellow food coloring
1/3 cup heavy cream

SWEET CREAM

1 1/2 cups half-and-half
1 14-ounce can sweetened condensed milk

WHIPPED CREAM

1 1/4 cups heavy cream
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

GARNISH

Caramel
Mint leaves

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

2. Sift together the flour and baking powder into a medium bowl. In a separate larger bowl, beat together softened butter and sugar for 1 minute. Add eggs and beat until mixture is a light yellow color. Mix in vanilla and juices.

3. Combine flour with wet mixture a little at a time while beating until batter is smooth. Be sure to scrape the sides of the bowl while mixing. Pour this batter into a greased 9x9-inch baking pan and bake for 35 to 40 minutes or until the top begins to brown and a toothpick stuck in the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool.

4. As your cake is baking make the lemon mousse topping by beating the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer in a medium bowl until smooth. Add powdered sugar a little at a time while blending with the electric mixer on low speed. When all of the sugar is incorporated, add lemon juice and a drop of food coloring. In a separate bowl, beat 1/3 cup heavy cream until it forms stiff peaks. Fold this whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until completely combined, then cover and chill.

5. Make sweet cream by combining half-and-half with sweetened condensed milk in a 4-cup measuring cup with a spout or a small pitcher. Cover and chill this as well.

6. Make whipped cream by combining 1 1/4 cups heavy cream, 2 tablespoons granulated sugar, and 1/4 teaspoon vanilla in a large bowl. Beat with an electric mixer on high speed until it forms stiff peaks. Cover and park this in the chiller, too.

7. When the cake is completely cool, slice it down the middle once, then across twice, creating 6 rectangular slices. Run a knife along the edges of the cake as well. Poke holes in the top of each slice of cake with a fork - one poke in the center of each piece will do the trick.

8. Pour the sweet cream mixture over the cake while its still in the baking pan. Frost the cake with the lemon mousse. Serve each slice on a plate that has been drizzled with caramel. Top each slice with whipped cream and a garnish of a couple mint leaves stuck into the whipped cream.

Makes 6 servings.

Me n' Jordy

2009-12-16T17:52:00.001-08:00

Kids are too funny

2009-08-05T12:18:00.000-07:00

This is a great video by Jairen.

Knitting Progress

2009-08-05T12:03:00.001-07:00

The Shalom Cardigan...I've hit a snag with the lower half....I don't like how the leaf pattern is coming out...so I'll have to get creative when I'm feeling more creative.

The Cabled Baby vest. It's turning out cute except seems to be more wide that it should be. Maybe I'm a wide knitter?

The Beaded Cami (Camisole, for skunkle Zeke). Again...WIDE. The pleats will help, but now I've taken then off the needles...I'm thinking of making pleats the old fashioned way, sewing style. Then I still need to knit the back of the top. It's pretty material though.

The Juliet Cardigan. Happily, seems to be coming along as it ought to...surprise, surprise. Which makes me think it must not just be me and my knitting.

Sculpting Progress

2009-08-04T12:49:00.000-07:00

It's nice to finish some projects I've been working on.

Progress....

2009-06-25T16:05:00.000-07:00

The Stripey Sock....this yarn creates stripes as you use it. Fun, huh? And what wild stripes they are! I have to be careful now, because my last sock with this pattern was huge. Maybe just another stripe and I'll start closing it off.

A Rugged something or other...it's a gift so I have to be mysterious here...

This will one day be a cardigan. Can you believe it?

The one day to be Beaded Cami. I like the lace design on the bottom. Now it's just a bunch of stockinette stitch...which can get boring, but it's great for movies (where lace is not).

And Vanessa is coming along...She's all baked, sanded, and patiently awaits her hands and feet. And hair, and wings, and clothes....we'll get there. She's not getting cold though...it's plenty warm in these parts. They are coming to fix the a/c tomorrow! The boys have been melting up in their loft room.

Cardigan finished...baby not....

2009-06-20T19:17:00.001-07:00

Hmph.....well, it wasn't supposed to fit me when I was pregnant, so all I can say is anyone trying to make this cardigan....use the smallest size! I picked my normal size and it was huge, but still...not bad for a first real project. I actually might knit this one again sometime, once I learn how to alter patterns better and have a better idea for how big something might turn out.

So, this is me 6 months pregnant. 3 to go. Phew....I need to take this thing off. Is it hot everywhere these days, or is it just me?

Well, that's it...no real news. Happily I'm doing better these days, and not on bed rest so much. See how happy this makes me? Okay...off to knit something else I for sure can't wear while I'm pregnant. (I don't have the patience to knit something that will only last a couple more months.)

A mom's best friend...& some cool photos (photos first)

2009-06-04T11:37:00.000-07:00

Just some cool photos I found. The one at the top is a 12 yr old Afghan girl. It was on the cover of National Geographic. When I first say it, the lady at Albertson's said that her eyes were amazing, but that actually she had some disease that made them that way. Well, that was inaccurate apparently, because this same gal is now a mother of 3. So I thought that was cool. Neat eyes just because God gave them to her.

This is the best thing for a pregnant lady...I'm living proof. I've had much less pain since wearing this. Would have been nice to know for the other 5 pregnancies, but better late than never.

Some songs don't really make much sense, but they sure are fun. This one is from Dumb & Dumber. Crash Test Dummies.

3 hours later....

2009-05-30T15:31:00.000-07:00

I gave the baby some poutier lips and more of a button nose. That's better. I also did its ears, and those take a while. Sculpting is slow going, but the results fascinate me. Maybe I'll get to the legs tomorrow, but one of the arms is giving me some grief, and those hands will take a while to detail, but it sure is fun.

Sculpting is a lot like drawing in that you "rough-in" the body first. You go for basic shapes and the general idea, then move on to detailing. At this point, only the head is detailed, and one arm more completed than the other. If you detail everything as you go, you may find out the shapes are all wrong, and waste hours of work. Isn't that a cute little pose?

2009-05-30T15:23:00.000-07:00

Some of the latest endeavors. The poor large baby head and fairy face have been waiting here forever, but the sleepy baby is brand new--my latest wip (Work in Progress).

Here's a better shot of the baby. I think I'll rework him a bit though.

The big sock. It's too big for my foot, so I don't know if I'll knit another or not. I'm hoping the stripey sock fits better.

Aren't those fun colors?

And lastly, the progress on the eyelet chemise sweater. The skirt part is done, now I'll be working on the top of it. Not that it's a skirt...it just has a empire waist on it, and this is the...well, below the boobs part. (Can I make it any more clear?) =)

Saturday is a Special Day...

2009-05-30T11:40:00.000-07:00

Saturday I get to check off another week of keeping this baby inside, growing safe and sound. Today I completed week 23. I was thinking it probably helps knowing this is my last baby...because I still have another 13 weeks to go to be in the clear for the most part.

I have to admit, I am making good use of the downtime, and sometimes outright enjoying it. I've read a lot, knitted a lot, and usually have a great book going on my iPod. It also makes time for lots of great insights about life in general.

The kids all went swimming for the end of school party yesterday, and it was a little sad to miss that. But I was able to go out and help celebrate our 8 yr old's birthday at Chuck E Cheese's. Heck, I even brought my knitting along. Check out this cutie:

Yeah...I forgot my camera. But at least they have the picture drawer there, so I got shots of all the kids, but Steph (no surprise there).

Baby vest...this is so cute!

2009-05-23T22:02:00.001-07:00

I've been looking for a good baby project, and isn't this the cutest??? I love this little vest, and what's more, the pattern and instructions are online here. What a gem!

Other news...I am now 22 weeks along, which incidentally is the age of the youngest preemie to survive--at least according to one website. Not that I'm planning on letting this guy out a moment too soon, but with all my contraction trouble and hospital stays...I did find comfort in that random tidbit.

It is very strange to have much of each week simply reduced to checking off a number (like Week 22!), and THAT is the week's big accomplishment. But, I know it means a lot to Jordan, the little kicker inside me. =) It has been good to slow down and do a lot of journaling and pondering life in general. Somehow my other children have become that more precious.

Glad to have a girl...

2009-05-22T20:20:00.001-07:00

Just in from San Francisco...

The Wilmot Clan

2009-05-12T00:13:00.001-07:00

So, these are my Dad's children, photo taken at his funeral. I'm the pregnant one in the while, then came Zeke, the handsome guy in the back row middle. Then Lani, my sis in red (who was also just barely pregnant at the time (congrats!) . Next came Nick, far left back row, John, far right back row, and last, Megan, far left front row. That's the Wilmot Clan.

Here is Megan with her son, my nephew, Talon. He is so cute and fun to play with!

It's weird how you are all kids together...and then you grow up into these big adults. It just is.

Yea! My Yarn Order is Here!

2009-05-09T14:05:00.001-07:00

Wow--that bag of 10 is for a sweater I'm going to make, minus the tummy showing. (Stretch marks just aren't sexy!) Have to admit all those balls are a bit daunting, but the yarn feels great, so it should be fun. The colorful kind is Felici Patina, and with make some funky, self-striping socks. I grabbed a color chart as well, because it was crazy trying to decipher what was what on the website. Well, off to cast-on I go.

More Food Stuff...

2009-05-06T17:28:00.000-07:00

Do you ever shop for a bunch of recipes, come home with a ton of groceries, get them all put away, and then wonder what's for dinner? Or "What was I going to make again?" I didn't want that to happen, so I armed myself with my camera. Pictures say a lot to me!

We did the Eggplant Parmesan...the kids loved it. No, we didn't add pickles. (how'd they get in this photo?)

This was for some Raspberry muffins from Marie's recipes I mentioned last post. Very tasty.

This was the best for coming home ready with a snack. Fuji apples are my favorite, and this caramel is the best!

We did a whole oven-fried tofu meal with lots of goodies from Marie. The family all like this one as well. I didn't know which Tony seasoning to buy, so we grabbed both. That's an English Cucumber up front.

And for a yummy smoothie.

Hmmm....I need to head to the kitchen find some more goodies. I think we have the caramel...but not apples. How did I manage that with the kids? Hiding the caramel, of course. Should have hid me some apples too! =)

What's for Dinner

2009-05-06T17:19:00.000-07:00

Spinach and Artichoke dip from the Olive Garden Recipe...yummy!

The aftermath of the shopping excursion...this was a couple weeks ago.

Some yummy Pita & Olive Oil chips from Marie's recipe book.

The finished picture is at the top, along with my favorite salad lately...Simply tomatoes (Roma, if I've got them) cucumber, a little lettuce, and Light Italian dressing. It's so good! and easy!

Playing with the Fam...before the Bedrest days

2009-05-06T17:14:00.001-07:00

Just catching up with some photos. I finally got an adapter for my Mac so it can handle an SD card. Very weird it didn't come equipped already...it's practically perfect in everyway, just like Mary Poppins.

The verdict is in...it's a....

2009-05-04T11:50:00.001-07:00

Come on...is anyone really surprised here? Another Jensen boy. If only we were into basketball, we'd have a whole team!

Downside is that the way we found out was by spending the night in the ER. My body is jumping the gun again and I was having painful contractions like crazy. So I've spent the weekend on bedrest, doped up on Lortab and Brethane...but at least it seems to get the contractions under control.

I'm 19 1/2 weeks. Yipe.

We go in for another check-up today, and I'll keep you posted. The happy news is that the baby is healthy and growing right on schedule. And, very obviously, a boy.

Steph is tickled to remain the only princess in our castle, and Jasen was hoping for a little brother anyway.

So there you go. Really...is anyone surprised? The only comments I've heard were, "I'll bet it's another boy!" =)

The female form

2009-04-30T23:28:00.000-07:00

Interesting things, these female bodies of ours. They change as needed. They follow an internal rhythm.

They stretch and grow to encompass the life within them.

They feel and know the one within them. The one the rest of us can't see.

They express. They feel.

They play.

In a nutshell...

2009-04-29T14:41:00.000-07:00

I think it was Covey or someone like that that said, "The more I learn, I find the less I know." I always thought that was weird, but now it feels so true. All I know is boiling down to two things. Light and Dark....Life and Death. Enjoying myself, laughing, smiling, focusing on joy, pleasures, and happiness...feels like life. Stressing, judging, being uptight, worrying, slowing into inactivity...feels like death.

And I prefer Life and Light.

That's all I know.

My pretty...

2009-04-24T17:32:00.000-07:00

I've got The Hobbit on the brain, since that's our latest family read. But I wanted to show you another new necklace I acquired. This darn pic is so dark, it doesn't give the necklace it's justified POP. It's made of shell and is so shiny. Love it.

So, picked up some groceries to give some of Marie's recipes a go. You can download your own here.

Alright...of to go be social at the neighborhood get-together. We'll see how THAT goes!

(Dang...is my bed ever made? I know it is...just not when I take pics!)

Random Pics

2009-04-23T17:19:00.000-07:00

If you don't have lawn, apparently walking through the "not lawn" can result in this effect. Ow! I got a nasty scrape from it as well!

My Christmas item that stays all year. Really, only the glitter made it Christmas-y. And up above, you can see Randy's lastest religious find. I think he got this guy at the Krishna Temple. He has a Buddha on the opposite side. It glows.

Justin and Jasen are finally getting along. Jasen's learning to not beat up on his older brother.

What 5 year old wouldn't want a picture with a Legos man from Star Wars. Heavens....Lego Star Wars is his favorite game!

Playing with Video...Knitting Finds

2009-04-21T15:40:00.000-07:00

So Marie suggested I check out Heindselmann's knitting shop in Provo. I find I much prefer the drive into town to get the kiddos from school if I get to do something fun, too. So today, I got to explore the wonderful world of fibers...with my fingertips. Among my finds were a fairy dust necklace, with a little fairy on the front, some sock yarn, and some needles. But actually, I got the needles at Roberts. It was a great little outing. Thanks for the idea.

Apparently, this is the face I make when I can't get a container to open. Lovely!

Be sure to notice the cool birthday necklace from Marie.

Inspiration...

2009-04-20T10:46:00.000-07:00

Ever notice how when inspiration hits, it rarely has anything to do with the dishes...or any other kind of housework for that matter?

Today I'm brimming with new ideas, and ready to write. Sorry, sweet kitchen. It's true, you aren't nearly as fickle as the muses, but when they call, I've gotta run. We'll chat later!

Favorite Song

2009-04-16T15:33:00.001-07:00

This has always been a favorite song of mine, but now with new reason. Isn't this amazing???

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9lp0IWv8QZY

Happy People...

2009-04-13T19:21:00.000-07:00

I like happy people:

What to say?

2009-03-27T20:52:00.000-07:00

Well, it was a very strange week. Seeing my Dad at the viewing...good for closure I guess, but not a highlight. Jasen, my 5 year old was curious and stayed for a few minutes...then BOLTED out of there. I could relate. Dead bodies.

It was awesome to see so much family I don't see much. It was wonderful to see my handsome brothers and cute little sister, and her little boy Talon.

But all in all, it was rather weird and surreal. And at the same time, it's nice to have it all over with. I guess part of me knew the day would come that I'd get that phone call, saying Dad had died. And now it's over. I can't help but feel some relief. Mostly because I know he was struggling and not at peace. And now he is.

The kids handled it all well. They hadn't seen Dad for a while and didn't see him often, so I think in a way that made it easier on them. But Josh summed it up well (my 10 year old).

"How do you feel about Grandpa Dave dying?"

"Bad!"

They all loved their Grandpa.

Just had another surreal moment where it seems so strange to be writing this. That someone's life has ended.

We went out to eat tonight--us siblings--to PF Chang's. I love my family. I actually got to have 2 families, with the divorces and remarriages. The more the merrier.

I hope my children will love each other and enjoy each other like I do my family.

More changes on the horizon. I'll keep you posted.

Bye, Dad.

2009-03-18T19:43:00.000-07:00

Today I found out that my dad died. He was only 56.

This was in '82 when he took us to Disneyland. What a cutie!

This is my dad, myself, with a classic Nike tee-shirt (Dad owned a shoe store) my sister Lani, and then my brother Zeke. We were at my grandmother's house--Dad's mom. She just died a few years ago. I like to think they are having some good chats now. =)

This is little me, and my dad. He was probably only 27 or 28 at the time. He always loved the outdoors.

And this is one of my favorite pictures of him. He always said his nose was so pointy he could use it as a pencil. But it was actually quite a handsome nose. =) We went cross country skiing in Sun Valley, and built a snow wall. My uncle Tom took this shot through a hole in the snow wall. Back before Photoshop. =)

I love you Dad. Thanks for sharing this time here with me. You are missed.

12 Weeks 3 days

2009-03-17T21:49:00.001-07:00

Week Twelve: Fingernails and toenails appear

You are 12 weeks pregnant. (fetal age 10 weeks)

The fetus is now about 2.5 inches (6cm) length and weighs about 0.7 ounce (20 g).
The feet are almost half an inch (1cm) long.
The fetus starts moving spontaneously.
The face is beginning to look like a baby's face.
The pancreas is functioning and producing insulin.
Fingernails and toenails appear.
The baby can suck his thumb, and get hiccups.

From this week you may well be able to hear the baby's heart beat through a doppler monitor on your tummy. You will notice that the rate is up to 160 a minute, double that of a normal adult.

Your baby now has a chin and a nose and a facial profile. Vocal chords are complete, and the baby can and does sometimes cry silently. The brain is fully formed, and the baby can also feel pain. The fetus may even suck his thumb. The eyelids now cover the eyes, and will remain shut until the seventh month to protect the delicate optical nerve fibers. The hair is on the head and the fingers and toes have developed soft nails. The kidneys are developed and begin to secrete urine.

Your baby weighs between 0.5 and 0.7 ounce (14 to 20g), and crown-to-rump length is almost 2.5 inches (63mm). Your baby's size has almost doubled in the past 3 weeks.

Wow...that's a lot of development in a tiny 2 1/2 inch baby. Amazing. Can you imagine 1/2 inch feet?

Checking in....

2009-03-17T21:40:00.001-07:00

I think I'm finally getting close to being done with morning sickness...at least a little bit. I'm at the weird state where I don't really look pregnant...just more like...chunky. I'll prefer to just move on up to obviously pregnant. =)

I feel a lot more at peace with having another child. I was overwhelmed with 5, but you know what? They all seem to really like me, so I must be doing something right. And I love them too, so it works.

I feel so much older for this pregnancy. My first was when I was 20. Wow. I don't feel "too old" or more aches and pains stuff...more that it's much more profound now.

Hmmm...guess I don't have a lot to say tonight...but I've been a stranger to blogland for too long. I'm still kickin' around.

A Kidney Bean????

2009-02-20T18:15:00.000-08:00

I visited a pregnancy website, typed in my vital information, and was promptly told, "Your baby is about the size of a kidney bean."

A Kidney Bean? Oh come on! I don't know about you, but I've certainly been having way more symptoms than a kidney bean warrants. But...what do others say of this time? "I'm sleeping all day" "Exhausted" "Feel so nauseous"...so it's all normal.

I still don't get it. I've had to retire my skinny jeans...which I'd only FINALLY gotten into a few months ago...already. Due to the size of a kidney bean?

Well, it's better to not focus on kidney beans. I'm not making soup here anyway. It's a baby. An utterly surprising, unexpected, change of plans, baby.

A miraculous baby....

Fun with Paints

2009-02-10T11:41:00.000-08:00

This is one of my latest. Not exactly done, as I could go through an pencil in more detail, now that the oils are dry. This was done with the Shiva Paintstiks I've mentioned before, and some water color pencils, and water-soluble pastels. The background is nice and grainy, as I gessoed some masonite and then scrubbed a papertowel over it to show the nice gesso texture. I love these oils because you can get messy with them. Most of the skin texture was done with my fingers. (Oooh, hey--if you click on the picture, you get a BIG version with texture galore!).

Hmmm...this is a scanned pic and it's not as vibrant as the real deal, but I was going for sombre tones anyway. Even orange can be sombre at times.

I knitted a sock and have a cute pic of my son wearing it, but that will have to wait for when I'm on my laptop. For as amazing as Macs are, you'd think they'd make an SD slot. Go figure.

Well, today I'm feeling well enough to make a post, so that's progress. Let's see if I can even tackle a pile of laundry....

One Step at a Time...

2009-02-01T20:07:00.000-08:00

So...last pregnancy, I was sentenced to bed-rest from 17 weeks on, due to my over-active uterus. (a.k.a. pre-term labor...though it's really more like my uterus likes to exercise like crazy, and that makes the doctors nervous). So then I was on lots of medications to stop the "exercising"...one turned my skin bright pink...and the mix of them, plus not much exercise, left my liver in bad shape. Plus, apparently that "relaxin" hormone that helps your hips be able to split apart...can also effect your feet. I was in a brace for the last few months as well, because my ankle was freaking out, due to the relaxin. (Not so relaxin' for the ankles). I actually rode the little cart around to do grocery shopping.

I'll cut this short...I could go on... but suffice it to say, it was not a fun pregnancy. In fact, I hear that those really do exist, but they have been a mystery to me.

I'd like a fun pregnancy. I'd like to enjoy this one.

So, here's the plan. Take it one step at a time. Morning sickness is already here...but, I get to rest a lot. I love naps. I've been go...go...go for so long, rest can be good.

Everything has slowed down. I guess that's because I get up for the day, and my body says, "Oh, no you don't". Where I used to have task lists plumb full of things to do, now, if I hit 2 or 3...that's success. If I hit 1, it's success!

Being pregnant at nearly 36, with 5 other kids....wow. I still hear my kids talk about it and I think they are talking about someone else.

My biggest joy this week was realizing...I won't have another 2 or 3 year old to handle as well. Only one baby in diapers. 5 other kids, yes, but 5 other kids that can get in and out of cars, fasten seatbelts, dress themselves, and almost feed themselves (Jasen & I need to bring him up to speed a bit, but he's excited to be a big brother, so here we go). Maybe, it won't be quite so exhausting.

Finding out you are unexpectedly pregnant, just as the kids were almost all in school takes a bit of ...flexibility. And it's a different flexibility than...say... you head out to your favorite restaurant for your favorite dish, only to find they are out it...and you need to choose something else.

18 more years of mothering. Well, 19 really. I'll be in my late 50's!

It's really about the exhaustion. I'm so tired already. Wow. I feel like this is an unexpected road, and the one I was heading for was a nice gentle slope, kids in school, being able to work full time, finances beginning to improve in a big way...but instead, I've got a big hill to climb.

But, I know, it will be a wonderful hill. Babies are blessings, expected or no. I know a lot more than I did 5 years ago. Now I have the opportunity to everyday, every hour, put the power of thought into action.

It's overwhelming. It's scary. But, it's also an exhilarating adventure. There we go. That fits. An adventure. A surprise. Excitement. Unexpected twists and turns.

Let the adventure begin!

Psychic Jenna....

2009-01-31T17:54:00.001-08:00

I'm not quite sure how this happened. Well, logistically, I know how this happened. But it definitely beats the odds. You know that teeny, tiny fraction of a chance that you'll get pregnant, no matter what kind of measures you take? I do. In a big way.

I have 5 beautiful children, and the youngest is heading off to kindergarten this fall. Done! Made it. And for a whole week or two, quiet at home. And then, I'm starting all over again. Apparently!

Jenna, all I can suppose is that you are sending some strong baby-making mojo to our family, and it hit me! Maybe you and Lani will be preggers this year too. Wouldn't that be something for the folks to return home to!

Well, there you have it...and my blog readers are nearly the first to know.

The kids are super happy about it. I've never had a bunch of teenagers to help out with a new baby before. What an interesting year this will be.

Isn't that picture the cutest in the world. It helps me remember what all the nausea and future aches and pains are all about. New life.

Unexpected

2009-01-24T19:23:00.000-08:00

Isn't it strange how one day can change the rest of your life? You can be cruising along, planning things out, thinking you are going in "this" direction, only to find another one falls in your path. That Unexpected Road.

And what can you do but learn to fall in love with the new path? And trust that it is a good one. Life is full of irony...and unexpected turns, apparently.

But, life is FULL. And that is what counts.

Things that inspire & Energetic imprints

2009-01-16T20:07:00.000-08:00

My first official vlog. The last one didn't count because I was hiding behind the painting. I was a wet ragamuffin fresh out of the shower. So, if you film at night, the words are a bit off. Who knew? Is anyone else missing the sun and warm weather?

Shiva Artist's PaintStiks video...

2009-01-16T20:05:00.000-08:00

Just some tips about my new toys.

Solving the world's problems....

2009-01-15T09:29:00.000-08:00

The difference between what we do and what we are capable of doing would suffice to solve most of the world's problems.

(A random thought off of an email I received. Nice thought, eh?)

Why I like my Mac...

2008-12-30T11:49:00.000-08:00

Because it understands women--that with every request we make is implied the word "now". It gets me. =)

I'll bet I've spent days of my life--maybe even weeks--waiting for my computer to get in gear. Waiting for downloads, waiting for reboots, waiting for it to turn ON. Waiting, waiting...

Mac is NOW.

About beliefs and foundations

2008-12-30T11:32:00.000-08:00

It seems to me that the only true foundation we have is what we hold to inside ourselves. It is the beliefs we choose to embrace and make part of us.

I've spent much of life thinking and rethinking, making a decision, and then deciding something different later. I like to be flexible. Yet, there are some beliefs, some ideas that serve us greatly. These are our foundations.

If you find a belief that brings you joy and comfort, hold to that belief. Find others to add to it. Create your own foundation for what "life's all about" with the thoughts you think and the beliefs you embrace.

How firm our foundation is entirely up to us. We can choose to make it sturdy, or.. let it be blown away, like sand in the wind. Choose beliefs that serve you and support increased life for all. Each day we are building. What do you want to create?

Some beliefs I hold to:

The Universe is a kind, loving and supportive place, and even the challenges are for our growth and learning.

Life is about learning and discovery.

Help and guidance is always available.

Expression in all forms (art, writing, song, etc) makes the heart sing.

People are good, especially as they clear away limiting beliefs.

There is only abundance.

Connection is bliss.

and...with some input from the Beatles...

Love is all you need:

There's nothing you can do that can't be done.
Nothing you can sing that can't be sung.
Nothing you can say but you can learn how
to play the game. It's easy.
Nothing you can make that can't be made.
No one you can save that can't be saved.
Nothing you can do but you can learn how
to be you in time. It's easy.

All you need is love. All you need is love.
Love is all you need.

Nothing you can know that isn't known.
Nothing you can see that isn't shown.
Nowhere you can be that isn't where you're meant to be.

It's easy.

My favorite line:

Nowhere you can be that isn't where you're meant to be.

Wherever we are, wherever this day finds us, is right for us.

I know, I have my own things I am resisting about this day. But there is wisdom to be found in asking, Why? What creates this resistance in me? Things aren't always as we prefer in the moment, but later, they seem perfected orchestrated, as we open to the lesson.

Here's to a New Year of healthy foundations.

Adios and Letting Go

2008-12-25T11:20:00.000-08:00

Adios
It is a good word, rolling off the tongue
no matter what language you were born with,
Use it. Learn where it begins,
the small alphabet of departure,
how long it takes to think of it,
then say, then be heard.

Marry it. More than any golden ring,
it shines, it shines.
Wear it on every finger
till your hands dance,
touching everything easily,
letting everything, easily, go.

Strap it to your back like wings.
Or a kite-tail. The stream of air behind a jet.
If you are known for anything,
let it be the way you rise out of sight
when your work is finished.

Think of things that linger: leaves,
cartons and napkins, the damp smell of mold.

Think of things that disappear.

Think of what you love best,
what brings tears into your eyes.

Something that said adios to you
before you knew what it meant
or how long it was for.

Explain little, the word explains itself.
Later perhaps. Lessons following lessons,
like silence following sound.

~Naomi Shihab Nye

It's getting better...

2008-12-18T14:49:00.000-08:00

Yep, it's a scarf. I officially knitted my first scarf. I'm as surprised as you are.

Knit Pics--a washcloth scarf???

2008-12-13T09:42:00.000-08:00

Sometimes things don't go as planned. Especially when you are beginning a new hobby...like, oh, I don't know...let's say, Knitting, for instance. This is what happens if you cast on 72 stitches (or loops? whatever...) and then run out of yarn. Apparently, the knitting expands in width--to almost double. Well-noted!

But who doesn't like a nice wash-cloth scarf you can where when it's breezy in the tub. You are naked, afterall...gotta warm up somehow!

Happy to report, Washcloth #2 was a success. Size 10 needles, 40 stitches on, and 32 bumpy row thingy's--my sister Lani taught me that technical term. Thanks, Lan.

It's still not very loose looking, and I don't know how I can knit any looser...so I'm guessing my needles are too small? Hmmm.... The cool part is that this one only took two days, and I only knitted when I was driving (well, riding as my HUSBAND drove...I really should clarify), watching movies, or any other time I was just sitting on my duff. Like when I was watching the How to videos about my dear, sweet iMac.... or even while waiting for our table at Carabba's. Knitting really fits in well! AND you get washcloth scarves. How cool is that?

And then of course, more fun on the Photobooth with my buddy, J. Don't we look funky? He's a riot. Having kids to play with is a good thing. =)

Mmm...banana bread

2008-12-07T09:23:00.000-08:00

from Lindsey Brackeen:

My Favorite Banana Bread

4 mashed bananas
1 cup sour cream
1/4 cup butter
1 1/3 cups natural cane sugar
2 eggs
1 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose whole wheat flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

Crumble Topping:

2 tablespoons butter

3 tablespoons brown sugar

1tablespoon flour

1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

1/4 cup finely chopped walnuts or pecans

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease and flour two 9x5 inch loaf pans.
Combine banana and sour cream. Set aside. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until smooth. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla and banana mixture. Combine the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt; stir into the banana mixture. Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan or pans. Mix all topping ingredients and crumble across the top of the batter.
Bake for 40 minutes in the preheated oven, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the bread comes out clean.

Enjoy!

Blast from the Past and Polaroid Tool

2008-12-07T09:09:00.000-08:00

Remember this? It's still as awesome as it was in '84. Let's see...that's...24 years ago! (yipes--had to pull out the calculator on that one!) Oh me oh my, my life is flying by...

And then I came across this cool tool. I makes you photos look like Polaroids...but I think you need a Mac to use it...maybe not. But how's that for a blast from the past?

Polaroid Tool - oh, and I just noticed there is a PC version if you scroll down.

Have fun!

Lookie what I got!

2008-12-05T12:10:00.001-08:00

from Christy's Creations

AND

From the way cool Bolsa Chica blog!

Must be my lucky day. I love snowmen and Brown and turquoise together. I just decorated my bathroom in those colors! THANK YOU!!

And the Winner is....

2008-12-05T11:54:00.000-08:00

Congratulations, Ginny! This was just too fun! If you'd like to be notified when I have more give-aways, paintings, or soaps, just fill out this form below:

Freebie for you & Drawing Notice...

2008-12-05T07:23:00.000-08:00

I realized this morning I didn't say what time I'd stop taking entries...so let's make it 12 pm Mountain time. Shortly after that, I'll be posting the winner...so watch for it. Now for the freebie.

A friend of mine is giving away these incredible booklets and audios called Philosopher's Notes. He's says, "They are kind of like Cliff Notes...only way cooler." They are certainly COOL! He has a goal to give away a million of them, so I'm getting the word out. I'm passionate about reading great books from conscious people, and Brian Johnson makes this easy by writing up a shorter version, filled with gems from the real books...but condensed into about 6 pages. He's also made audios of each one as well. How cool is that? You can find them here, for FREE, until December 31st.

Enjoy them, from Creating Consciously!

Philosopher's Notes

Blog Give-Away Day!

2008-12-03T16:01:00.000-08:00

It's give-away day and I have something special for you. Up for grabs today (and for a couple more days, as suggested by the people at Sew, Mama, Sew) are these 3 handcrafted soaps. Two are lightly scented with "Endless Love" and the brown layered guy is "Hint of Mint Chocolate."

Handmade soap is truly an affordable luxury. It can transform your daily shower or bath into a fragrant, sudsy escape. Handmade soap gently cleans without stripping your skin's natural oils. The result is clean, soft, healthy-feeling skin. You can try some now for free, through this give-away day.

As well as a PRINT of one of my paintings, "Alice Contemplates Her Apple." 8" x 8"

TO ENTER: Simply leave a comment on this post and on Friday, December 5th, I will randomly draw one of the names to receive these gifts. Easy as Pie!

I will ship to the United States, Canada, Australia and the UK--or if you know your country has reasonable shipping prices, that's great too.

And, for all who visit today, I am giving away a great little PDF booklet on the high joy vibration of gratitude. Download here.

For more fabulous handmade giveaways visit sew, mama, sew for a list of bloggers participating in GiVeAwAy DAY!

Knit-picky or knot....

2008-12-03T11:02:00.000-08:00

So, my friend Marie gave me a washcloth that I adore, and I've always wanted to know how people make them. And since that time I keep running into people with a pile of string and knitwork or crochet in their laps, so I've decided to try my hand at it, armed with nothing but the Internet. AND, I am super excited to start a hobby that I never want to sell. It's just for me, and just to relax me, and make movie time a bit more productive.

I've found some great videos to help me along, because when it comes to knitting, I have no clue. I think it's just a bunch of knots tied together, and it is, but it sure is clever. Marie can knit all sorts of fun things, and I was really impressed with some of her projects. For me, I'll be thrilled with a washcloth.

I gave it a go last night and....well...I started with the 100% cotton yarn for washcloths, and I'm thinking this might have been a bad idea. I did make a cute little square I might wrap around a bar of soap, but the cotton yarn seems to catch on itself. So I need to run to the store and try some more slippery yarn for practice. But, I can now officially cast on, and do the knit stitch. And even a little binding. But...the sample piece is not very pretty, and even has one hole, so I must have missed a stitch. Some of the rows are haywire. But I'm getting a kick out of it. What a funny thing to do with sticks and yarn!

Here's a great video I found that talks about Continental Knitting, which I am learning, rather than the "throwing" kind. Whatever that means. I learned it from this site, which I like because the person in the videos sounds like Maggie Gylenhaal. I loved her character in Stranger Than Fiction, so it's fun to pretend she's teaching me to knit. Didn't her character seem like she could knit?

Here are some great beginning knitting links as well:

Knitting Help - My Favorite

Hipster Knitting

Tips for the Beginner

Simple Dishcloth Pattern

CyberSeams: How to Knit Videos

Monkey See Videos

So cute, so tiny!

2008-11-26T16:13:00.001-08:00

Welcome Caleb! These are my brothers, and Jared, in the blue, is the Big Daddy now. Isn't this baby precious? He was only 4 lbs. 14 oz.--notice the size of Jared's hands compared to this little guy. I got to stroke his sweet baby hair and touch his cheek today. Hurry and grow little guy, so we can hold you!

And the world welcomes in a new life...

2008-11-25T19:03:00.001-08:00

No, this isn't one of mine, but isn't he cute? Today, my little brother became a Daddy. I had the chance to talk with Jared and Liz last night about contractions the upcoming events. Liz was scheduled to be induced tonight, but little Caleb didn't like that idea, and he made an entrance around 2 this afternoon. It was hard to know what to say last night, knowing how profoundly the next 24 hours would change their lives forever. But, now they know too.

I finally feel like an aunt. Since I've been the grandchild-bearer so far out of my mom's 5 kids, I have to admit, it was much easier to see the family expand this way. Thanks, Liz!

We'll go see the little guy tomorrow and get some good pictures. Isn't that what an aunt would do?

You've got to love her...

2008-11-23T18:17:00.001-08:00

This is my mom. She's in Korea right now, apparently examining the large leaves there. She's out being an adventuresome soul. She's pretty darn lovable.

Feeling Mellow....

2008-11-23T18:08:00.001-08:00

Feeling mellow today. I mentioned on facebook that sometimes you just need to tell you kids 'no'. Like when they say, "Mom, will you count to a million?" or "Mom, will you smell my feet." I think I'd choose the feet, if I had to pick. But today I just said no. =) But 4 year olds are great.

Ah...Blessed Speed....

2008-11-18T17:50:00.001-08:00

We finally got an Internet connection speed that can keep up with me--well, almost. But it's awesome. And with the wireless filling our whole home, I can sit anywhere. For instance, right now I'm sitting with the fam watching 10,000 B.C. (well, the ClearPlay version--I hate violence). That Saber Tooth Tiger is awesome! And the Mammoths. Anyway...we were without this caliber of Internet for quite some time, and now it feels like heaven. Nothing really messes up my flow like w a i t i n g....for....SSSSSS LLLLLLL OOOOOOO WWWWW pages. Uck! Those days are over!

Musings and Camera Fun on November 1

2008-11-01T22:13:00.001-07:00

Fun with Self-Portraits...

Watch my finger glow!

Have you seen these pictures on the Internet--random poses and self-portraits. I like how you just catch yourself here and there, and snap the shot. Kind of fun.

I have to say, I really like my hands. They are probably my favorite attribute--and the ones I see the most, especially when I am writing away.

Last year's boots that I'm excited to wear again this year...

Then, the random self portrait, taken in our new bathroom. I love tile. It's so earthy.

Have you ever really looked yourself in the eyes? I seem to catch myself with a serious face quite often. Which is strange, because I don't FEEL all that serious. Aren't eyes amazing, though? They capture a million different emotions--and then when you look at them very close up, they have another million facets. I love eyes. I think I have eye-close-ups for each of my children.

Hmmm...hubby and daughter just got home. Steph watched The Crucible--a play her school was putting on, and Randy went to fetch her. Time to stop musing...

My 2nd Baby is here!

2008-10-24T09:09:00.000-07:00

Why is it that writing a book is so much like birthing a child? I do not know--but it's the most fitting analogy I've found. The ideas for this book came to me on a Monday, not too far back, and I had the bulk of it completed a week later. I love it when the ideas just flow. It's called I Create Vitality: The Art of Living in High Joy Vibrations. And the first few chapters covers vibration in an incredibly scientific way--I love to have things make sense to my heart--and MIND!

You can learn more about it by clicking the image above. And if you happen to know my middle name, I'll give you a free copy. Just shoot me an email and I'll send it on it to you.

Monkey See Monkey Do?

2008-10-24T09:03:00.000-07:00

I have found the coolest site filled with how-to videos! You can find it here or click on the image above. Yesterday I watched a video on soap-making, and today, I'm learning video editing. Oh, there is certainly a Mac computer in my future!

Monkey See is kind of like You Tube--but the videos are fast and crystal clear--way better quality. What have you always wanted to know how to do? Check it out!

Speaking of YouTube, if you go to splandoo.com--you can learn to download videos to your computer so you can watch them offline as well. How cool is that?

Off to learn more cool things...

Too Funny for Halloween

2008-10-20T20:51:00.000-07:00

This picture says it all, doesn't it? You've got to admire the creativity! Thanks, Michelle, for giving me a laugh!

Carve your pumpkin....

2008-10-10T18:39:00.001-07:00

You can practice online here--it's far less messy!

No Middle Ground?

2008-10-07T11:33:00.000-07:00

Either you do or you don’t.

I realized last night, that with faith and living the conscious life—you either believe it and experience it—or you don’t. There is no middle ground.

So much of my life I’ve spend between the gears, on all sorts of things. Stuck between decisions, unwilling to fulling give myself to anything. Do you remember learning to drive a stick shift? Remember that awful sound between gears? Okay, maybe you weren’t as bad as a stick shift driver as I was (No comments, Jared!) But still, you can imagine the analogy, can you not?

Either you have faith, create your life consciously, expect miracles—or you don’t. It’s when you are stuck somewhere in between that life gets painful.

I was thinking last night of two types of people. Those who don’t believe in “something out there” and those that expect miracles. Those who don’t believe, leave it up to themselves. They are bound and determined to make whatever it is they desire happen—no matter what. After all, it’s up to them, right? I commend the tenacity this displays. The pitfall is not recognizing or realizing all the help and love available to them.

Then there’s another kind of person, who expects miracles—who expects input from God and the Universe, direction, and help! But, this method can also run amuck if you have…a plan. A way you expect things to go along the way as you expect something to turn out. If you detach from all the “how’s”—this method still works pretty well.

But what if you were to combine the two. Put your energy completely into something, and expect miracles along the way. You press forward, ready to do it all, but know some things are going to come about quite easily. If we forge ahead and expect that THIS thing was going to be easy, or that the help would show up at THIS particular juncture—we might be in for disappointment. But if you focus instead on accomplishing the task no matter what, and are open to help however it comes—you accomplish, and you don’t end up doing it all by yourself either.

Forge ahead, let nothing dissuade you, and notice the miracles as they drop in.

I think God wants us to be SERIOUS. Not frumpy and grumpy—but certain, sincere, and sure of what we want. When we ask and set out to create—we’ve got to really mean it to experience the success we desire.

Huh--still not middle ground--but there certainly is synergy. I choose the best of both worlds.

The only thing this picture is missing is...

2008-10-05T17:37:00.001-07:00

Well, ME of course. And I can't tell if this one has tan leather seats or not--because I'd like those as well. They only seat 4--darn--but they are so cute! I would have never thought in a million years I'd get a bug, after my boyfriends-with-bugs that breakdown history. But I love the new version. So this counts as an entirely different car, in my opinion. Ideal, would be the brand new covertibles. But--26 grand. Ouch. But the standards are great, too! I'd like a pretty green one with tan leather interior, in great shape, and under 50,000 miles--for under $6,000--or whatever makes my payment around $130/month. Do you doubt me? I've already seen them in blue and silver, fitting the bill. There's bound to be a cute green one out there!

The Gecko Green metallics are pretty nice as well. You can see them here.

Too Funny

2008-10-05T17:30:00.000-07:00

Use this the next time you need to give an apology. I found it on my friend Marie's site. She finds such clever things.

Friends for life

2008-09-28T18:37:00.001-07:00

This was at the Ropes course--we where all standing on a tiny, 3 foot platform, holding on to each other for dear life (the game was that if we fell off, we'd die in the "ocean").

This is after we made it through the Ropes Course--see the next post for some great adventurous shots! Here we have top row: Camille, Jamie, Craig, Brandon, Doug, & Marie (yes, the Marie I'm always talking about). and then bottom: Me, Katrina, Carrie, & Andrea.
Getting Goofy! We'd been through alot together by this point--time for some fun!

Now for the most exciting part--

2008-09-28T18:15:00.001-07:00

Hmm...so what's Apryl up to? This is Doug helping me get my gear on. What's the gear for? You'll see!

And a hard hat? Doing some mining? I look like I could have been on Zoolander. I like this picture with my cute pointy nose profile--too funny!

And up we go. There were metal prongs to use to climb with--about 1-2 feet apart--18 of them total.

A little perspective. I don't know how tall it was. 35 feet or so? Enough to freak me out.

Now, by this point, that little pole is wobbling like crazy as well. The idea is to stand up--and then jump!

This moment was one of the hardest in my life. My muscles were all shaking and starting to cramp up. If you have any issue with heights--you'll understand! Just stand up, I kept telling myself. See that little tiny platform? The other trees look close, but they weren't! Nothing to hold on to!

I did it! And then this next picture is just after I jumped. It looks kind of like a flying squirrel. It was actually harder to get from the pole top to the platform and stand up, than it was to jump. But that second before the ropes tighten was interesting! I made Janine look me in the eye and promise she wouldn't let me fall before I'd go up the pole. I had a neighbor who's husband fell and had a brain injury that really messed him up...because the spotter wasn't paying attention (it was a scout thing--so much for be prepared)...so I wanted to be extra sure I could trust Janine. She was awesome!

This is Doug hugging me (I clung right to him--so glad I made it and didn't die!) and then Jamie in the red, Andrea, my buddy in the white, and then Becca in the stripes. They were so awesome to root me on!

I did it! And it's true--life is different after doing something like this. Most things in life are not very scary at all, compared to what this was for me. It's a great lesson in perspective!

Ropes Course

2008-09-28T18:06:00.001-07:00

So, this past weekend (well, Friday, to be exact), I had the opportunity to do a Ropes course with the Outlook Coaching program I've been involved in. So here's me, our faciliator, Janine, and my buddies from the coach group. This one is called the Trust Fall. Just before we fell, we had to say our name and "and I trust you with my life." And then drop into their arms.

They caught me--it was awesome. My coaching call buddies, Andrea and Carrie are at the front, where my head would be after the fall. They are awesome--actually--ALL of these people are!

This is Craig and I as we lean into each other and keep our bodies stiff walking toward the trees. Notice that we are standing on wobbly cables. The people in the middle are there to spot us.

It was pretty cool. It trusted Craig completely, and that made it easy for me.

Totem Animals anyone?

2008-09-20T15:07:00.000-07:00

My friend Marie (from last blog post) just told me about this site. You can learn about your totem animals based on your sign--mine's Aries.

Power Animal Guides linked to your Birthdate

Your Birth Totem belongs to the South and teaches you from a place of trust and innocence, your creative inner child.

Your Spirit Keeper sits in the East and guides your spiritual growth and brings illumination.

Your Clan Animal belongs to the West and a place of inner knowing and intuition, it helps you to discover your true self.

from the website:

http://www.sweetgrass.co.uk/html/totem_animal_info.HTM

Capricorn - Snow Goose - Buffalo Spirit Keeper - Turtle Clan
Aquarius - Otter - Buffalo Spirit Keeper - Butterfly Clan
Pisces - Cougar - Buffalo Spirit Keeper - Frog Clan
Aries - Red Hawk - Eagle Spirit Keeper - Thunderbird Clan
Taurus - Beaver - Eagle Spirit Keeper - Turtle Clan
Gemini - Deer - Eagle Spirit Keeper - Butterfly Clan
Cancer - Woodpecker - Coyote Spirit Keeper - Frog Clan
Leo - Sturgeon - Coyote Spirit Keeper - Thunderbird Clan
Virgo - Bear - Coyote Spirit Keeper - Turtle Clan
Libra - Raven - Bear Spirit Keeper - Butterfly Clan
Scorpio - Snake - Bear Spirit Keeper - Frog Clan
Sagittarius - Elk - Bear Spirit Keeper - Thunderbird Clan

Below are some starting thoughts, drawn from many Native American writers. The book, Medicine Cards by Jamie Sams & David Carson is particularly recommended and includes lots more animals.

Bear
Bear belongs to the West and is one of the most powerful spirit guides and brings the gifts of intuition, self knowledge and spiritual wisdom. Bear is powerful and fearless, especially when protecting the cubs, but also teaches us to be mindful of our limitations - sometimes we need to exercise caution.

Beaver
Beaver is the great builder. It brings the power of family and home and teaches us to keep lots of options open to stay safe and prosper.

Buffalo
Buffalo belongs to the North. It was held sacred by the Plains Indians who obtained nearly everything they needed from the American Bison. Buffalo brings us power and endurance to walk the Good Red Road of pure intent that leads to health and happiness. It represents the sustenance that brings renewal and rebirth after a hard winter.

Butterfly
Totem of the Air Clan, Butterfly protects all that is beautiful and holds the secret of change and transformation. It teaches us to live life with intensity.

Cougar or Mountain Lion
Cougar, like all big cats, has perfect balance and harmony. It shows us how to protect ourselves from injury in our physical activities, and how to conceal our fears when strength and leadership are needed.

Coyote
The power of the South makes Coyote bold, impetuous, creative, charming and youthful. Coyote challenges the status quo and sometimes comes unstuck but is always a survivor. Following Coyote won't make you a fortune but you know that material wealth isn't the source of true happiness.

Deer
Deer brings healing through the power of love and gentleness. She treads softly and has the amazing ability to appear and disappear in the wink of an eye.

Elk
Elk's power comes from the Earth and the Great Mystery. Elk medicine helps us know when our true soulmate appears. Regal and impressive, Elk brings confidence when you are unsure of yourself but if you are aware of your gifts, Elk teaches the wisdom of modesty.

Eagle
Eagle holds the power of the East and is the sacred messenger, flying high to carry our prayers to the Great Spirit and returning with gifts of illumination and clear vision. Eagle helps us see the bigger picture, to rise above our earthly concerns, and reminds us to pay attention to what really matters in life.

Frog
Spirit of the Water Clan, Frog sings the song that calls the rain to Earth. It teaches us to know when it is time to purify, refresh and replenish the soul.

Horse
Horse brings the gift of freedom, power and speed. Horse medicine will help you travel safely on your life's journey, whether physical or spiritual. Horse reminds us of the importance of relationships and the need to slow down and make time for those we love.

Otter
Otter is playful and joyous. It teaches us to share generously and not hold onto possessions. Through Otter, we learn to trust that our needs will be met.

Raven
Raven is the keeper of magic and the power of the unknown. With Raven, something special is in the air. Will you recognise it and use it to grow spiritually ?

Red Hawk
Red Hawk is the great communicator. It helps us make sense of the conversations within our head and gives a clear voice to our ideas.

Snake
Snake sheds its skin each year and teaches us to welcome change as an opportunity for growth, and to let go of the past. It represents the power of Fire, passion and energy.

Snow Goose
Snow Goose brings clarity to our earthly dreams. Snow Goose helps us trust our intuition about which way to go and to know instinctively when it is right to change direction. Some say you can never go back. Snow Goose teaches us that you certainly can and sometimes should.

Sturgeon
Sturgeon is the king of fishes. It is the keeper of long life and a fruitful old age and represents power and endurance. It also teaches us to count our blessings, to avoid waste, to conserve and to share.

Thunderbird
Thunderbird holds the Fire Clan and brings thunder, lightening and rain. The greatest of all the winged ones, Thunderbird is closest to the Creator. His fiery breath and blazing eyes carry the gift of life and link the soul to the Great Mystery.

Turtle
Turtle is the totem of the Earth Clan. Once, when there was only water and nowhere for the people and animals to go, Turtle made a great sacrifice and let everyone come and live on her back. TurtleIsland is the Native American name for the Earth or the continent. Turtle will be your guide to contact our Earth Mother for wisdom and healing and reminds us, in return, to tread gently and with respect.

Wolf
Wolf represents endurance and balance and teaches us to tread the fine line between dependence and independence, between the needs of family and our own personal development. If it is time for you to move on and start you own pack, wolf will support and guide you.

Woodpecker
Woodpecker is a little worker that brings us closer to the healing energies of Mother Earth and teaches us to protect our environment - before it is too late.

Favorite Songs

2008-09-02T13:55:00.000-07:00

So, my good friend, inspiration, and Passion Queen, Marie (visit her blog--then you'll get it) asked what kind of music I like. I made it easy and just pasted some of my iPod playlists below. But it's funny--to answer what kind of music do I like--has the answer--well, good music, of course. But what that is and when it is--hard to say. I loved the song Life in a Northern Town, and when I first got my iPod--it was the first song I got from iTunes. But 20 listenings later--the thrill was lacking. Right at the moment--I love Jakatta's One Fine Day. It was just a song from a random email being circulated about. But I love it!

On my iPod I have everything from Pink Floyd and Queens Rhyche to Amazing Grace. I like what I like when the mood hits me. Side note--the ONLY song I have from Queens Rhyche is Silent Lucidity. I'm not into the head banging--but Silent Lucidity is a masterpiece.

Mika's Love Today is hip with my teenager right now--and it's a fun one. Unwritten seems to stay in my top ten list, along with Jewel's Life Uncommon. I've sung those in the shower many a-time, along with Evita songs. I don't know--I guess they lend themselves to shower singing. I loved that wet and watery song from Evita where they are all splashing around in the streets. And then the woman song from Mamma Mia--brought tears of joy to my eyes. Something about letting that feminine energy free--and playing and dancing and singing. Sure beats war.

When I saw Christine Kane sing, within a couple months I had my guitar. I didn't know that guitars came with blisters, so practice has been slow-going--but seeing Christine like that, just singing from the heart--part of me came alive.

Now, singing wise--well, I must be pretty alright, since I was in Madrigals and some of the more "elite" singing groups. But to do it and not be nervous--that would be a dream come true. So far, I've just stuck with shower singing so far--and then mostly when nobody is home! Which is sad since I LOVE singing and music so much. One day it will fall into place. Why else would I love it so? One day I'll actually buy a microphone. Then I'll just have to wait until nobody's home....

One Fine Day...

2008-09-01T11:57:00.000-07:00

IF you can follow this link, it's got a great video to go with this song:

Video

(the one I really wanted to post)

What are you passionate about?

2008-08-28T12:17:00.000-07:00

Sometimes reconnecting with your passion can be as simple as thinking about things that put a smile on your face. I took a moment today and reminded myself what I am passionate about. Here you go...

Things I like

Happy children
Justin running up and down the halls lost in a fantasy game in his head
Carrot Butter Crostini from Sage's Cafe in Salt Lake
Late night talks with dear friends
People being goofy and enjoying themselves
Granite countertops
Clear spaces
Chi Machines and the energy flow right when the machine stops
Animated, passionate people
Loving people and their kindness
The golden clown music box Trina gave me
Tank tops
Tan skin
A cookie shop called "Smart Cookies"
My children's enthusiasm about just about anything
Fun surprises
Kissing a sleeping child goodnight and the way they look like angels
Beauty in any form
People changing their lives for the better
Synchronicity
Angel Cards
Water fights with the Egberts
Family parties
Brothers who are always there for me
Sisters who inspire me
French night--especially when blueberry scones and feta pretzels are involved
Solutions
Miracles
Blessings
Sunsets
Rainbows, especially the one I saw just as I got the key to our new house
Recognizing God in my life
Playing, playing, playing
Children getting older and feeling less fragile
Newborn babies
The light in people's eyes
Frosted sugar cookies, in the shape of a butterfly
Funny jokes
Children's bright eyes and enthusiasm
People doing what they love and letting their divinity shine through
Intuition
Feeling Peace
Aura computers
Almond Vanilla Biscotti
Being Fit and Strong
Catching glimpses of my real self
Writing
Sculpting--love, love sculpting
Creating something that wasn't there yesterday
Letters from Mom & John
Aunts
Grandparents
Courage
Success
Passion & Romance--big time!
This poster:

Stress is sending an Invitation?

2008-08-16T10:31:00.000-07:00

I really enjoyed this video today...

Relocating???

2008-08-12T16:40:00.000-07:00

Two weeks ago I set the intention I wanted a new house and it was time to move. I did some EFT on the matter, and then set about on Craig's list to find a home. And now, after an amazing scramble of a move--here I am, sitting in my new home, writing my first blog post. God is amazing--the Universe is AMAZING--and I am in utter gratitude. One of the things that touched me most was the outpouring of help from friends and family. THANK YOU SO MUCH for all of your help. I have such an awesome family! And hey, we even got to witness a miracle wallet story as well.

THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU!!!!!!