Take the Challenge!!

This last year I decided that I grumble and complain more than is necessary for a mom of 6 ... SO... I decided to take time each night for a year to think of something I was grateful for which I had never thought of before. Immediately all the "biggies" were out - family, church, my savior, home, food, etc... This was more of a chore for me BUT I learned so much. I have been totally and completely blessed in ways that I never could have imagined. So now, here's the challenge --- I challenge everyone who reads my blog to do this for the next year. My only regret was that I didn't write down all my 365 things!! This year I will and my family has agreed (most of them that is) to take the challenge with me.

Another Busy Week?!

Today I told myself that I needed to slip in some time for at least one entry this week on my blog. Kaylee and Kendall both had concerts at school (separate days). They were delightful to attend. Whitney and I loved each minute and were also able to count both nights as dates. Kaylee plays the violin and their string orchestra performed Vivaldi's "Four Seasons" and did an excellent job if I might say (I'm not biased either). Kendall's group performed various other band selections. I'm ashamed to say that I forgot my camera. This brings me to another reason to BLOG - it will enable me to remember my camera - Right?? I hope so. (Here is a picture of Kaylee at her last concert)

I will take several pictures tomorrow of Kaylee's Sadie Hawkins Date. She and 7 other couples are coming here for dessert and activities.

Tell Me You Haven't Done This Before??!

I'm reading quietly Sunday evening and hear squeals of delight coming from the stairs to our basement. I go and this is what I see. (Notice the sleeping bag with pillows stuffed at the bottom).

The kids didn't get to go to Lagoon this year so they decided to make their own rides right here at home - Aren't they so creative??!Actually, I should put a poll to the side for how many of you have done this - My siblings and I did when we were growing up. It was fun! I allowed them to have some fun until someone's head got bumped (of course).

Weslie's Fieldtrip to Antelope Island

I was able to go with Weslie to Antelope Island for her 4th Grade Fieldtrip. We actually went back in October when the Brine Shrimp were migrating. I had no idea that brine shrimp are seasonal and so most of the migratory birds stop here during this time of year to feast. We caught several and brought them home. A few were fed to our Beta fish (Malibu) much to Weslie's horror. The other kids were just curious about what would happen. Weslie can identify the male and the female. (FYI - Brine shrimp are also known as "Sea Monkeys") For those of you who were wondering where Antelpe Island is . . . It is by Layton, UT in the Great Salt Lake. There is a land bridge to the island. A man from Texas brought buffalo to the island many decades ago. There are several still there. The island has many interesting tales and history. If you are curious - GOOGLE it.

The slide show to the right is a compilation of the pictures from the fieldtrip. You need a flash player to see them (Sorry for those who don't have it).

Halloween Weekend

Hey Everyone! We had a fun and busy weekend. Hope everyone else did as well!

We did our traditional doughnuts and trick-o-treating. I'm embarrassed to say that I didn't take pictures in all the excitement but I do have a few from our ward Halloween Party a few days earlier. Landon is eating a doughnut and Braden is waiting for the fishing pond.

Here is the 100 Spudnuts recipe in case anyone wants to make their own. We've made these for the last 12 years (our tradition) and shared them with neighbors & friends.

Spudnuts (It really makes 100)

Soften 4 tsp. dry yeast in 1 c. warm water & set aside.

3/4 c. shortening, 2 Tbsp. salt, 3 c. milk --- Bring these to a boil then add:

1 c. sugar

2 c. mashed potatoes (instant works)

Cool to lukewarm then add yeast mixture. Add:

1 tsp. nutmeg

5 beaten eggs

12-13 c. flour

Knead well and let raise for 2 hours. Roll to 1/2 inch and cut. Let raise til light. Cook in deep hot fat. Glaze while hot. ENJOY HOT!! MMMMMM!!! SHARE WITH OTHERS !!

GLAZE: 2 powdered sugar, 1 1/2 c.-2 c. warm water, 1 Tbsp vanilla