Escalante Escapades

Advent Activities - December 4th

2011-12-04T01:33:00.000-07:00

Tonight we watched the Christmas Devotional in the comfort of our own home, while drinking hot chocolate and eating freshly baked cookies. It was a treat!

Happy Birthday to Luz!

2011-12-04T01:10:00.001-07:00

Yesterday we celebrated Luz' 4th birthday. I know, she is practically all grown up and saving China! We had a pleasant morning. Juan made breakfast burritos with eggs and stuff. Then I left to do a couple of errands while she, Ezra, and Juan all played.

We had her birthday party from 2-4. It was a Dora theme. All the local cousins came. (I am thankful for the internet and people who post such fabulous and creative ideas for me to copy and/or modify!) When they arrived they each got a Dora bag filled with necessities for the adventure and got right to work coloring a picture of Dora or one of her friends. (crayons were in the bag) Our next stop was the story blanket to read a Dora book. Then we headed downstairs and had to blow bubbles to cross the train table that was in our way. (bubbles were in the bag) Then there were some more obstacles in our way (the Dancing Forest) and we had to dance our way through. (instruments were in the bag) Then we headed back upstairs to the blanket for a snack. (cup and plate were in the bag) And learned an English/Spanish song. And had cupcakes. And opened presents. It was a blast!

After the party we headed out to "The Birthday Place" for dinner. Earlier in the week I had asked Luz what she wanted for her birthday dinner. She replied very quickly, "I want to go to the birthday place, Mom." Which birthday place? Tucanos, of course. We go there to celebrate Dad's birthday, and Mom's birthday, and now, Luz' birthday. So cute! She stood on my lap and shook the tambourine when they sang to her. Oh, and she insisted that she needed to wear her new princess dress there.

My little Luz is growing up. She has brought so much happiness into my life these past 4 years. I seriously don't know what I would do without her. I get her. I mean even when I am frustrated with her, I [most of the time] understand what is going through her mind. She is truly a mini me in so many ways. I love, love, love her and can't wait for our next adventures together!

Advent Activities - December 2nd

2011-12-02T01:35:00.002-07:00

Tonight I went with the Cub Scouts to the BYU Planetarium to see the "Star of Bethlehem" show. It was pretty interesting. Definitely not for my kids' ages yet. We'll have to wait a few years to take them.

Advent Activities - December 1st

2011-12-01T01:26:00.000-07:00

The Festival of Trees:
We have attended this event for several years now. There is a special spirit when you enter an event where 100% of the proceeds from everything go to charity. This year was even more special because my niece Victoria put together a tree to donate. Hers received one of the highest bids for small trees. We are so proud of her. And it was fun to attend the event together. The kids had a great time. Unfortunately, Juan was not able to go with us this year. He was at a presidency meeting the only evening we could attend. The first picture is a giant bubble thing. It was pretty cool!

Advent Activities

2011-12-01T01:21:00.001-07:00

It takes me a while to get in the Christmas spirit. I mean, like I start getting into it around December 20th every year. I want to enjoy Christmas. I think this is my year. I have already been gearing up for some Christmas excitement for a few weeks now. I was so excited that Juan put Christmas lights up on the house the day before Thanksgiving while I was out. I came home to this:

Breathtakingly beautiful! I put together a calendar of Christmas activities for our family, beginning December 1st. I tried to include a variety of projects, service activities, musical events, etc. We'll see how it goes. Stay tuned!

Thanksgiving - Take 2

2011-11-26T00:36:00.001-07:00

Then on Saturday we got together with Benjamin's and Carolyn's families for a real Thanksgiving. Benjamin and Tami cooked a very yummy turkey, potatoes, gravy, and pumpkin pie. Carolyn made ambrosia and stuffing and brought a chocolate pie. I made yams and apples, corn, apple crisp, and bought rolls. It was all yummy.

I love Thanksgiving! It is still my favorite holiday. I'm always glad for an extra opportunity to reflect on blessings and service.

Thanksgiving - Take 1

2011-11-24T23:48:00.004-07:00

We had an awesome Thanksgiving! On Thanksgiving day we made carne asada. The Sunday before, I asked Juan what he wanted to have because he hates turkey. He said carne asada. I asked him what we were going to do if it snowed. He said he would still cook it. So, we planned for it and executed the plan. It was fun! It turned out to be a beautiful day, like we played outside while he was cooking. It was only about 60, but the kids had coats on, don't worry. :) So, we ate carne asada, rice, beans, roasted pumpkin (cubed, cooked in the oven with a little coconut oil and salt), green beans, apple cider. More of a harvest celebration.

Luz' First Primary Program

2011-11-13T16:31:00.004-07:00

Luz participated in her first Primary program today. She said her part well. She's known it for weeks now. "Puedo saber que las escrituras son [la palabra] de Dios." (I can know that the scriptures are [the word] of God.) The words in brackets are ones she decided didn't belong and never included in her rehearsal of this part. I'm not sure why. I would say the entire phrase and she would repeat it exactly, purposely leaving out that part. I decided after a few days that it still made sense without it and I didn't want to push it. So she delivered her version of her part. :) She sang all the songs. She looked cute. I was back in the corner playing the piano and couldn't see her face. Ezra was mesmerized the entire program and actually sat and watched/listened. I don't think Juan had to take him out at all. That's a first!

In an effort to make the Primary program a big deal and because she only has 1 dress that fits her anyway, we got a new dress to wear today. I picked out 4 that I liked. We took them into the dressing room. I had her pick her 2 favorites to try on. Juan and I both told her we liked the brown and pink one better. She said she really wanted the purple one. I let her choose. It's cute. The sleeves are a little weird for my taste. Our mission was to find a cute dress that went with brown shoes because her already-existing, still-fitting church shoes are brown. Most winter dresses go better with black, but I thought this was just fine. We had the same mission for Mr. Ezra who has brown shoes. Apparently we like brown shoes around here and do not want to buy millions of shoes in a size that the kids only wear for a couple of months. Luz has 2 pair of shoes and some flip-flops. Ezra has 1 pair of shoes. The end. Anyway, Ezra has been wearing some blue cords and a red polo shirt for church for a couple of months now. They are both too small and not warm enough. I picked up this outfit at the store in size 18 months... (Luz' dress is size 5, by the way. Apparently our children are giants.) ...and showed Juan. He looked at me like I was nuts, and then I explained the brown shoe plan. He was on board with that. Let's buy clothes around already existing shoes. :) We're weird parents.

Halloween 2011

2011-11-01T20:20:00.002-06:00

Monday was Halloween. We went over to Aunt Linda's for our "annual" Halloween party with Grandma M. It was good to see her and visit with her. We had planned to go over and visit more on Sunday, but we didn't want to take the illness with us, so we got a very short and sweet visit on Monday. We had dinner and then Juan took the kids trick or treating while we visited. I tried a new recipe! I made beef stew inside a pumpkin and cooked it all in the oven. It was yummy.

Luz was a...purple butterfly (again)! This was the 4th year she has worn the same costume. Best investment ever. It is the only costume she's ever known. It is cute and warm and apparently grows along with the child. I told her this year that it would be her last year as a butterfly. She said, "Oh good Mom! I want to be a princess next time." :)

Ezra was a Tigger, minus the hood. He is not a hood guy. He went trick or treating in the stroller. He is walking quite well, but he doesn't walk much in public yet.

Happy Birthday to Me - Part 1

2011-09-03T23:33:00.001-06:00

As you know from this post, and this post, and this post... we like to do multiple part birthdays in our family. Today was Part 1 for me. Conversation a few days ago:
Juan: So, what do you want to do for your birthday?
Me: Oh, didn't I tell you? We're getting family pictures taken.
Juan: Are you kidding me? :(
Me: Nope. But aren't you glad we didn't take them for YOUR birthday?
Juan: not convinced...
Me: It's MY birthday! :)

So, here are some of the cutest ones. I was EXTREMELY happy with the studio and we got the CD with about 50-60 great pictures on it! (I played around with the formatting, but I know it's still retarded. I'll work on it again some time.)

2 Weeks of Whole Foods

2011-08-22T01:20:00.005-06:00

After June and July, my body had had it! I just couldn't eat like that anymore. So, I decided to do a whole foods cleanse, 50% raw. No chemicals, no processed foods, no refined foods, no meat, no dairy. Lots of produce and whole grains and beans. It was refreshing. I got to spend a little more time in the kitchen than I had, which was actually fun. Here are some of the things we've been eating:

My standard daily green smoothie:
1 c. water or unsweetened coconut juice
1 banana
1 apple, quartered and cored, with skin
1 carrot, ends cut off, with skin
1/2 lb. spinach
2 c. frozen mango
Shove it all in the Blend-tec except for the frozen fruit and blend on the whole juice setting once. Then add frozen fruit and blend one more time.

We tried this beauty out and love it, any time of day. I even made it into popcicles, which were also yummy.
Robyn's Hot Pink Breakfast smoothie:
1 1/2 c. unsweetened coconut liquid (comes in a can, buy it by the case at Good Earth)
1/4 c. raw cashews (Winco bulk)
1/4 c. dates (Costco)
1 carrot, ends cut off, with skin
1/4 of a raw beet, peeled (anywhere) - I actually use 1/2
12 frozen strawberries (I bought fresh at Costco, washed and froze myself)
2 tsp. vanilla
I blended twice because the cashews made it a little grainy after only once.

We ate my very own crockpot beans in more than one variety. If you have never cooked your own, you are missing out! Please give this a try:
About 1 1/2 pounds of dry pinto, red or black beans
1 T Real Salt
2 cloves of garlic, peeled and whole
Fill the rest of your crock pot up with water and cook 6-8 hours. Pinto beans take less time, black beans will usually take the full 8 hours. Serve as is with a slotted spoon, make burritos, blend them up into "refried" beans, etc.

We ate this Black Bean Soup.
Modifications: vegetable broth in lieu of beef broth. Served with lime wedges, warmed corn tortillas (Rancho Market brand only has 3 ingredients), and of course, a salad.)

We ate these Southwest Stuffed Bell Peppers.
Modifications: no cheese, no chips, I used quinoa. They were a bit spicy for me. I won't be using the chipotle chili powder next time.

We ate this Southwest Quinoa Salad.
Modifications: I omitted the pepitas. I did add steamed diced zucchini though.

We ate stir fry. Which means that I sliced and diced as many veggies as I could think of, barely cooked them in my wok and served them over brown rice. No sauce, no meat. So many colors.

We ate amazing 20 ingredient salad.

We ate homemade pizza. [Family recipe that apparently hasn't made it only my Mom's food blog yet. I will type it in here later.]
Modifications: fresh ground wheat flour, no cheese, sliced fresh tomatoes, bell peppers, green onions. Yum.

We ate tostadas (Rancho Market's corn tortillas only have 3 ingredients). Warm them in a skillet until they are a little bit crisp, not burned. Spread some homemade "refried" beans, lettuce, tomatoes, and other fresh veggies. Cook your brown rice in vegetable broth to give it some more flavor.

I currently have a bowl of fresh grapes, washed and in the fridge. As well as a bowl of cut up watermelon. And a bag of cut up carrots. And celery. All ready to eat.

I feel so good.

My Green Smoothie Guy!

2011-05-23T01:34:00.003-06:00

May 23, 2011 (7 1/2 months old) - Ezra ate his first green smoothie (spinach, banana, apple, carrots, frozen mango). I should mention that he had a very rough day and had not smiled all day. I blended some smoothie up for the rest of us and decided to feed him some on a spoon. This smile was the result. We love green smoothies!

Sunbeam Adventures

2011-01-16T16:53:00.004-07:00

While it is not so exciting to take a 12-18 month baby to church, things do improve! Nursery is fun! And then comes Sunbeams!!! I have a feeling this will be a multiple part series for me during the coming year. Today 3 things happened.

During Sharing time I was sitting on the back row. Well, Miss Luz was sitting next to her friend Justin and put her arm slyly over the back of his chair. The next thing I knew, he also had his arm up on her chair and then started playing with her hair. Meanwhile I was just watching this thinking, "That is cute!" and "This is Primary, kids...and you are only 3!" Finally I went up and told them both to fold their arms and listen. :)

Later I was talking with the Primary secretary. She handed me a piece of paper and told me I had to read it. It was a spotlight form they had given each of the teachers to help the children in their class fill out. Luz had said the following:
Favorite food: pasta
Favorite animal: bunny (???)
When I grow up I want to be: I want to be like Jesus
Doesn't that just bring tears to your eyes?

After lunch Luz was playing downstairs. Juan went down to find her standing on the table talking. He asked what she was doing. She said that she was giving a talk in church. [This may have been prompted because Juan spoke in Sacrament Meeting today.] So cute! I guess we will be helping her give a talk in church this year. Glad she's preparing for it. :)

New Recipe: Black Bean Soup (from ourbestbites.com)

2011-01-13T22:46:00.002-07:00

My Rating: THIS IS AMAZING! As in, you HAVE to try it soon! If you don't want to make it, call me and I will make it for you!!!
I was browsing, looking for healthy meals and found this on one of my favorite food sites Our Best Bites. I used black beans I had cooked myself. You don't really have to dice the veggies, just kind of chop them up very coarsely. I omitted the salt and pepper. Because I already had the 1/2 tsp. out, I used that for the cumin, oregano, and chili powder. No sense in dirtying another dish. We topped it with a dollop of sour cream and a little bit of grated cheddar cheese (totally NOT authentic). It was super easy. You can blend all of the soup in about 2 blender-fulls. I really appreciated the tip of leaving the center of the lid off, but holding a paper towel there. I was just looking for some variety, but when I took my first bite, I thought WOW WOW WOW!!!

* Note: the lime is not listed in the ingredient list, but you will not want to leave it out.

Cutest smile ever!

2011-01-12T22:52:00.002-07:00

This afternoon, Ezra was sitting on my lap and Juan was talking to me. These were just some of Ezra's random expressions:

New Recipe: Spinach and Feta Pasta (from ourbestbites.com)

2011-01-12T20:37:00.001-07:00

My Rating: Awesome! and so fast!

Remember that dinner rut I was talking about? Well, I am really into trying new recipes now. I happened upon this one and loved it! Quick! In fact, so quick that we ate dinner at 4:45 last night. I was aiming for 5:00. I doubled the pasta, as in added the whole 16 oz package. I did that because I don't like half-opened packages in my cupboard. It was fine, but made so much that I will probably just follow the recipe next time. I added lots of extra spinach, like probably a total of about 8 large handfuls, and will probably add more next time. In my opinion this wasn't even close to enough. I used 2 regular-size cans of Italian style diced tomatoes, which I love. I also added extra mushrooms and a total of about 6 oz of feta cheese. I am in love with this recipe. However, this afternoon I had some leftovers for lunch and it wasn't nearly as flavorful. I'm going to try following the pasta to goodies ratio next time and see what happens. I served this with a green salad and bread. Here is the recipe!

Ezra: 3 months going on 6

2011-01-10T23:26:00.004-07:00

Mr. E is such a smiley boy. He likes being tickled. He desperately wants to sit by himself, but can't quite do it yet. He wants nothing to do with laying down. I think he feels like he is missing out on something. He is strong. He is happy most of the time...except when he's hungry. He and Luz absolutely adore each other. I should also mention that he is 16 pounds 3 ounces as of last week and graduated into size 3 diapers today.

Luz: First night in a big girl bed

2011-01-10T23:20:00.002-07:00

We finally did it! Juan and I got up the courage to move Luz out of a crib and onto a mattress (temporarily until she gets used to sleeping on it and then onto a real bed that's waiting for her in our basement). She was very excited and helped rearrange the bedroom this afternoon. Here she is all tucked in. As I write this a couple of hours later, I must say that she did quite well. She laid down shortly before 8:00. She did her routine call for us to help her go to the bathroom about 15 minutes later. Then she called for a drink of water. And then she was quiet and at some point around 9 fell asleep. Yeah! When I tucked her in, I told her that when she wakes up in the morning she can call me to come help her get up. She replied, "I big girl Mommy. I can get up myself!" Well, alright then.

Today is the day...

2011-01-10T22:27:00.000-07:00

to start catching up on the blog! Entries will be posted according to date of occurrence, not all on today's date, however.

Week 1: Done!

2011-01-09T22:53:00.002-07:00

Goal: Read The Book of Mormon as a family every single night. 3 verses each because Luz is 3. :)
Start date: Sunday, January 2, 2011

It is going absolutely great so far! It's such a great close to our day. We read 3 verses each. Then Luz gets to pick a couple of songs. Then we kneel and pray as a family.

Book Review: Iacocca: An Autobiography by Lee Iacocca

2011-01-09T22:26:00.004-07:00

My Rating: I really enjoyed reading this book (again) and would highly recommend it!
Appropriate for: Adults, Young adults
Lee Iacocca was President of both Ford and Chrysler companies. Some of the book is about his life growing up and how he learned some important life lessons. Other parts are about his work in the auto industry. All in all, it's one of those books that makes you want to get off your butt and go to work.

Goodbye Torie

2011-01-07T21:53:00.000-07:00

Our friend Torie passed away. I will always remember how kind and thoughtful she was. She suffered from a variety of illnesses and physical impairments, but whenever I talked to her she was always concerned about how I was doing. She had a hard time getting around, but whenever we went to the grocery store together or to do any other errands, I always felt like she was the cheerful one who made my day better. When Ezra was born, she made him a cute blanket...and another cute blanket for Luz also.

Juan introduced Torie to our family. Right after Luz was born, he started working as a taxi driver. Torie didn't drive (due to a seizure she once had) and frequently called for a taxi. When she realized how close we live (2 blocks away), she started calling Juan directly and they became friends. Soon he was not only driving her to the bank and the grocery store, but taking her to doctor appointments and other errands. She had lots of doctor appointments. During the year 2009 when I was working, Juan and Luz would often hang out with Torie while I was at work. Luz adored her. She adored Luz. She became Luz' personal grandma up the street. Every single time we drove or walked by Torie's house, Luz waved at Torie and Kory. Luz often talked about Torie's owies and asked why she had so many. We visited Torie at home, at the hospital, at the care center, and spent lots of time listening to her stories. It always made me feel a bit sad to hear about how her life used to be and how active she was. By the time we met her, she was already in constant pain.

This was the first time Luz attended a viewing and funeral. Juan didn't want to take her, but I really felt like they were good friends and Luz needed to say goodbye. We attended the viewing Wednesday night. Luz seemed to take it all in and asked lots of questions. The funeral was Thursday morning and it was nice to get to know her some more from the stories her sister and daughters told about her. We will sure miss you Torie!

New Recipe: Nauvoo Potato Casserole/Funeral Potatoes (from Karene Dix)

2011-01-07T20:39:00.001-07:00

My Rating: Really great comfort food. Takes longer to cook than my normal dishes though. :)

A dear friend of mine passed away and I signed up to help with food for the luncheon. Sister Dix called and asked me if I would make funeral potatoes. I said that I would, but because I have never made them before I would need a recipe. She sent me this one. I thought it was so yummy looking as I was making it in the morning that I decided to make another batch for dinner that night for us. Obviously this is not healthy at all, but really great for some comfort food. I served it with Mini Meatloaves, steamed broccoli, and a green salad. I am not really into frozen potatoes, so I used the brand Simply Potatoes that are refrigerated. The diced potatoes come with onion already. I used 3 bags (the bags are smaller) for this recipe. I also used one can cream of mushroom soup and one cream of chicken. I used butter instead of margarine and actually did not mix any butter in with the cornflakes at the end. I just sprinkled them on top.

Nauvoo Potato Casserole (or Funeral Potatoes)
2 bags frozen potatoes, diced or shredded, thawed
2 cans cream of chicken soup
¼ cup margarine, melted
1 pint sour cream
½ cup green or white onions, chopped
1 ½ cups grated cheese
3 cups cornflakes, crushed (topping)
Mix altogether in a large bowl, except the cornflakes. Pour into a 9 x 13 baking dish. Bake at 350 degrees covered with foil for 1 ¼ – 1 ½ hours. Mix cornflakes with 2 Tbs. melted marg., sprinkle on top of baked casserole.
Note: If using 1 ½ lb. bags of potatoes, it will make one 9 x 13 dish. (more creamy)
If using 2 lb. bags of potatoes, it will make a 9 x 13 dish and an 8 x 8 dish. (Less creamy but good)

Bye Tio! :(

2011-01-04T23:04:00.000-07:00

Today Tio Samuel left for BYUI. We are very sad that he won't be around to lull Ezra to sleep, make Swedish and German pancakes, play (purses/cars/blocks) with Luz, commiserate about car woes, and many other fun things we have done this fall. Good luck this semester Tio! We love you! By the way, next time you see Ezra he'll be about 5 feet tall. :)

Jesus wants me for a Sunbeam!

2011-01-02T23:08:00.001-07:00

My baby went to Sunbeams for the first time today! I can't believe it. I am so proud of her. Not that she had much choice in going, but she did have lots of choices in her behavior. She did GREAT! The leaders had all of the Sunbeams and their parents stay after in the chapel for a few minutes and then took the kids upstairs to sharing time. I gave her a few minutes head-start and then I went up there to sit in Primary like I normally do. At one point during sharing time, Sis. Elguera was showing different books and held up a cook book. She asked the kids if they had one of those at home. Luz turned around and asked me if we have one at home. I nodded. She was sitting next to her teacher and then touched his arm and said, "Yeah, my mom said I have one at home." TOO CUTE! Later, I was downstairs changing Ezra in the bathroom. Her teacher brought her in to go and saw me. I helped Luz go to the bathroom. Well, on our way out she grabbed hands with the other 2 kids in her class (one on each side of her) and said, "Come on, friends. Let's go to our class." Such a cheerful, friendly Sunbeam!

{Old} Christmas Tradition - Sacrament Meeting Christmas Program

2010-12-19T23:23:00.000-07:00

Today was one of the most inspiring and best programs I have seen in years! I came away wanting to be a better person. Thank you to those who put the Rivergrove 2nd program together this year. The one advantage of having winter babies is holding them in my arms during all of those Christmas baby lullabies.

New Recipe: Mini Meatloaves (from 5dinners1hour.blogspot.com)

2010-12-16T22:45:00.000-07:00

My Rating: Great and easy!

Also from that trial menu. Seriously, this was so fast to put together. I served it with baked potatoes and salad. So you mix the first set of ingredients together. I omitted onion powder because I don't have any and salt because you don't need it and used regular sage. I just sprayed my muffin tin with Pam and found that this recipe makes about 10-11 meatloaves. I don't have any dry mustard so I just squirted some regular mustard in and omitted the W. sauce.

2 eggs
½ C milk
2/3 C bread crumbs
1 t onion powder
1 t salt
½ t rubbed sage
1 ½ lbs ground beef
Bake uncovered in 350 degree oven for 20 minutes. Remove from oven, spoon sauce over top and cook an additional 5-10 minutes.
Sauce:
¼ C ketchup
2 T brown sugar
1 t ground mustard
½ t Worcestershire sauce
*freezable

New Recipe: Black Bean & Corn Quesadillas (from 5dinners1hour.blogspot.com)

2010-12-13T22:27:00.001-07:00

My Rating: Easy and delicious

It's a busy time of year for all of us. I found a link while looking at someone else's blog, and decided to give it a try. If you go here you can get a free trial of a week's menu. I love that the grocery list is included. In theory, you are supposed to be able to make up all 5 dinners in 1 hour and store them in the fridge until you want to use them. I didn't have time to do that today, but I did try this meal. I used pinto beans I had previously cooked in the crockpot. I didn't have any salsa, so I omitted it. I normally use uncooked flour tortillas from Costco. They really are the best! So, I barely cooked 8 of them, kept them in the warmer, then went back and filled them 2 at a time in the skillet and cooked them again. It worked out nicely. I served these with a green salad. I thought they were easy and fun.

3 T chopped onion
1 can black beans
1 C. frozen corn
1 T brown sugar
¼ C salsa
¼ t red pepper flakes
1 T chili powder
½ t cumin
2 C Monterrey jack cheese
10 flour tortillas

Scoop 1 cup bean mixture onto 5 tortillas. Top with another tortilla and place on sprayed baking sheet. Spray
quesadillas with cooking spray and bake 400 degrees for 15 minutes or until brown and crisp. Serve with green salad.
*freezable

Note: Since this first time, I have made these several more times. I have tried adding the salsa, but I think it makes them messier to eat and doesn't change the flavor. I omit the red pepper flakes because I don't like the kick. I have also found that I prefer cheddar cheese. And I don't add the onion either because it's just an extra step. So I have it down to beans (whatever kind I have cooked up), corn, brown sugar, cheese, chili powder, cumin, and tortillas...a reasonable list of ingredients. All things I have on hand. And these really are so yummy!

{Old} Christmas Tradition - Looking at Christmas Lights

2010-12-13T11:30:00.000-07:00

After the piano recital, we drove around and looked at some of our favorite Christmas lights in Provo. We will probably do this several more times before the season is over.

{New} Christmas Tradition - Piano Recital

2010-12-13T11:24:00.000-07:00

I suppose this is an old tradition that has been resurrected this year! I am so proud that all 3 of my piano students did such a wonderful job on their Christmas pieces. We heard awesome renditions of "Jingle Bells," "Oh, Come, All Ye Faithful," "Aria," "Once There Was a Snowman," "Joy to the World," and "Silent Night." I am also happy to say that all but 1 of the pieces were memorized! Yeah! There is nothing like Christmas music to bring the Christmas spirit!!!

{New} Christmas Tradition - ROC Christmas Concert

2010-12-12T23:25:00.000-07:00

It was also tonight. Because I love Christmas music so much, we went to 2 concerts, one right after another. That was asking a bit much of a 3 year old, don't you think? Actually, we all enjoyed it, including Luz. I was under the impression that this was a Latin American group and would be performing in Spanish. I assumed wrong. It is a multi-cultural group that performs in English. Their original music was quite impressive. I would definitely attend another concert, but probably not the Christmas one again.

{Old} Christmas Tradition - Stake Christmas Concert

2010-12-12T23:19:00.001-07:00

It was tonight. I always enjoy so many things about Christmas, especially the music. In our stake, each ward participates. We have a GREAT organ in our stake center. It has a star that adds so much to "Joy to the World." I love this tradition and plan on keeping it forever.

{New} Christmas Tradition - Classic Skating Christmas Party

2010-12-10T23:49:00.002-07:00

As part of a home school group, we attended a Halloween roller-skating party back in October and LOVED it. This time, we were all able to attend the Christmas party. I even skated for a short bit. It's only been about 20 years since I put on roller skates. Luz scootered around again and had a blast. Ezra enjoyed looking around at all the lights and people. And Juan was a great cheerleader. :) I hope to continue this tradition.

Merry Christmas!

2010-12-09T13:01:00.000-07:00

This is a great video!

{New} Christmas Tradition - Christmas Oranges Benefits Concert

2010-12-06T23:25:00.001-07:00

I love Christmas music. A friend from my mission (Marshall McDonald) is a composer and organized this concert several years ago. This year, the stars aligned and we were able to attend. It was amazing! A definite keeper as far as Christmas traditions go.

Family fun at the Doctor!

2010-12-06T13:17:00.001-07:00

Luz had her 3 year check-up and Ezra his 2 month. Here are our stats:

Luz

Weight: 32.2 pounds; 70%

Height: 39 inches; 80%

Head: 51 cm; 95%

Ezra

Weight: 14 pounds; 95%

Length: 23.5 inches; 75%

Head: 40 cm; 50%

Happy Birthday to Luz - Part 3

2010-12-05T22:53:00.002-07:00

Today we wrapped up Luz' 3rd birthday. After her Sunday nap, she got to lick the spoon and then frosted (and sprinkled) the cupcakes I had baked while she was sleeping.

Then she got to open her card from Grandma M. and her presents from Abuela. Thank you! And then we read all of the books. By the way, the reason I have never before read The Mitten could be that it was published in 1989 (I was 13).

And finally, we sang and ate cake and ice cream. She picked white cake with pink frosting and cherry vanilla ice cream because it was pink.

Happy Birthday to Luz!

Happy Birthday to Luz - Part 2

2010-12-04T22:24:00.003-07:00

We asked Luz a couple of weeks ago what she wanted for her birthday and she replied, "A haircut." Well, alright then. This all came about because last month I was combing her hair and mentioned to Juan that I thought it would be good to give her a trim. She has never had a haircut and her ends often tangle up during the course of the day. We do what we can to avoid tangles and such, but sometimes you just need to trim those ends. Anyway, when I mentioned it to Juan, he replied that we should take her to a place. I was curious as to why. I am pretty sure I could trim her hair and do an ok job for a 3 year old at least. He said that it would be good to teach her that we go to places to get our hair cut and that we absolutely DO NOT do this at home. Good point. So, we went. She was nervous, but was a trooper. We went the same place Juan goes and I was not happy with them at all. The girl was incompetent and mean to Luz. I do not like either of those qualities. We will be going to a "just for kids" place next time. I forgot to take a "before" picture. The other thing was that I had told the girl 1 inch and she just kept chopping away. I think she ended up getting about 3 inches off.

Happy Birthday to Luz - Part 1

2010-12-03T23:19:00.003-07:00

Happy Birthday to our sweet little girl Luz. Today she is 3 years old. As I rocked her to sleep for her nap today I thought to myself that there may not be that many more times I can rock her. She's growing up and hardly fits on my lap anymore. She will be moving into a big girl bed soon. She may not want me to rock her in the not too distant future. Sad. I hugged her a little bit tighter and felt thankful that today I could rock her to sleep. It's hard to believe that she's 3 already.

Happily, the guys were coming over today for piano. Luz adores many people, but "the guys" are still on the top of the list. They came bearing a gift...Dora Memory Game. We have already played it several times. She LOVES it! Thank you!

Then we got ready to go to Macey's grocery store. There, she got to buy her own ice cream cone. She loves to order it herself and pay for it herself. Best 50 cents I spent today. She also picked out a cake mix, frosting, and ice cream (more to follow on that).

Yesterday I asked her what she wanted for her birthday dinner. She thought for a moment, and then I suggested burritos (you know, something different). She emphatically stated that she wanted hot dogs and happy birthday salad (orange fluff) and then I suggested we also have uvas (grapes) to pretend there was something healthy in the meal. :) She made the happy birthday salad.

Here she is with her 3rd birthday dinner. Looks like Luz and Matthew have something in common.

So, we were planning to make the cake together when we got home from Macey's. However, Luz was just too tired and needed a nap. So, I put Luz her down for a nap. Meanwhile, I decided that we could bake the cake together either tonight or tomorrow. Also, our cute little neighbor's 5th birthday is also today, and when he found out it was also Luz' birthday, he brought some of his birthday cupcakes over to share. So, tonight we sang, "Happy Birthday," and ate those cupcakes. Thanks Che! Ours will get made and eaten sometime this weekend.

A big "thank you," to Tio Matthew, Abuela, and Tia Stephanie for the special phone calls!

This big boy is 2 months old!

2010-12-01T23:43:00.005-07:00

We'll be going to the doctor on Monday, December 6th and I will post his stats then. I can't believe how fast time has flown. He is beautiful, happy, and growing like a weed!

So happy together!

2010-11-30T23:50:00.001-07:00

Ezra's blessing

2010-11-21T00:00:00.048-07:00

Our Family

The men in the family

Ezra with Abuela

2010 Babies: Addelyn, 10 months - Ezra, 7 weeks - Lucy, 8 months

The Family is of God

2010-11-04T23:19:00.000-06:00

I am sort-of combining different things in this post. This afternoon, Luz and Ezra were playing and I thought it would be a perfect time to snap some photos. Then I teared up and thought of one of my all-time favorite songs that talks about families. I hope you enjoy both the photo and the song!

What my vote means this year

2010-11-02T22:47:00.000-06:00

This year, my vote represents several significant things to me. First, it always represents the opportunity to have been born in this country which, despite its many faults and flaws, is still one of the best options in the world. It also has always represented the many people who have sacrificed much to maintain my freedoms, including my freedom to vote. This year it also represents my desire for those who wish to call themselves American to be able to do so. And something new that I thought a lot about this year is my responsibility to teach my children the importance of voting. I started out by taking them both with me. Luz talked about voting all day long. She even got a sticker.

Today I feel like Super Woman

2010-11-02T22:31:00.002-06:00

After yesterday, I'd like to think that it could only get better...but as most of us know, it usually can get worse. However, today was an amazing day. I feel like a great person and a good mother and wife today! Yeah! Luz woke up happy! Not really anything to do with me, but obviously a good start to the day. That was also a pretty clear indication that she was feeling better. We got out of the house by around 11 and went to the doctor, the social security office, bought a sit and stand stroller, went to the bank, and voted! Then we came home and took naps. Well, I rocked Luz and put her down just as Ezra was waking up. I snuggled with him for a bit. I made a simple dinner...and everyone was still happy at bed time.

New Addition

2010-11-02T22:10:00.002-06:00

As many of you know, I have been looking for a Joovy Sit and Stand stroller for a couple of months now. I did find them for a pretty reasonable price online, but hadn't gotten around to purchasing one yet. Suddenly, while stalking craigslist I found a used one for a great price. Today it became ours. I am so excited! And I will be posting pictures of the kids actually sitting in it soon.

Reading catch-up

2010-11-01T23:10:00.008-06:00

During the past month and a half, I have not stopped reading. I have just stopped posting about what I've been reading. I will attempt to catch-up now (abbreviated version).

1. Leadership and Self-deception by The Arbinger Institute - Great

2. A Thomas Jefferson Education by Oliver Van DeMille- So great I bought it

3. The Five People You Meet in Heaven by Mitch Albom - Enlightening

4. For One More Day by Mitch Albom - Also enlightening

5. Key Lime Pie by Josi Kilpack- Great

6. On Becoming Babywise by Gary Ezzo - I've read it before and I'm glad I read it again. I really do believe and practice many of the principles outlined in this book with amazing success! This time around I actually bought the book. :)

7. The Happiest Toddler on the Block by Harvey Karp, M.D. - Good

8. Surviving Your Blessings by Lynn C. Jaynes - Good, not what I was expecting, but good

9. Promise Me by Richard Paul Evans - Great, as always

10. Tranquil Light by Anita Stansfield - Great, as always

What a day!

2010-11-01T22:13:00.001-06:00

Wow! I am sure glad today is almost over!
Score today--
Theresa/Motherhood - 0

Actually, the day started out great! Ezra slept straight through from 9pm until 3am this morning. I should have started out the morning on top of my game, but that wasn't the case. He is still pretty congested and I had to repeatedly clean out his nose with saline drops and the nasal aspirator. I really hate it more than he does, but I don't think he believes me when I tell him that. Poor baby wants to be held all the time. Luz is also congested and very grumpy. Poor girl doesn't know what she wants. She spent most of the morning in trouble for grumpy behavior. Then I finally realized that she really just didn't feel well. So, I gave her a Benadryl and put her on the couch in front of a movie. We made peace while the movie lasted but once it was over...back to super grumpiness. By then Juan was home. However, he was also grumpy. He had severe back pain and had to go to the specialist to relieve it today. He hates going. He hates paying the money and the massage is pretty painful. But he did come home feeling physically better. I put the 2 grumpy ones downstairs playing together while I finished up with dinner. They actually had some fun playing for a few minutes. On another good note, I made some fabulous chicken soup today. It was a miracle worker. As soon as we all had a few bites in our bodies, everyone's disposition changed and we had a very pleasant evening. Note to self: next time make the chicken soup for breakfast!

One Month!

2010-11-01T00:03:00.000-06:00

Ok, time is officially going by way too fast here! I can't believe that Ezra is a month old already! He is just growing and growing. He is such a cutie and a great baby and little brother!

Happy Halloween!

2010-10-31T23:44:00.001-06:00

We are pretty much the most awesome parents ever! Right...we recycle Halloween costumes. I'm not sure why I even used the plural form of costume, actually. Luz has had a total of ONE costume in her entire Halloween life...3 years worth. She was a cute little mariposa again this year. :) Ezra did not get a costume. He wore a sleeper and a Jack-o-lantern bib (which I don't think we got a picture of because it was removed once he started trying to eat it).

6 ounces!

2010-10-29T22:33:00.000-06:00

Today Ezra turned 4 weeks old. With Luz we started her on 1 bottle feeding each evening at 4 weeks to get her used to the bottle. Juan usually gave it to her while I pumped at the same time. It worked great. We decided to do the same with Ezra. I produce quite a bit of milk and often have to pump frequently during the first few months. I got a bottle ready for Ezra with 3 1/2 ounces in it. I sat down to pump and Juan came back down about 5 minutes later saying that Ezra needed more. I promptly handed over the 2 1/2 ounces that I had just pumped and he drank all of that immediately. Yes, my friends, Ezra downed 6 ounces of milk at 4 weeks old. I was really impressed. No wonder he is growing like a weed! And no wonder I produce so much milk!

Piano Recital

2010-10-24T22:50:00.000-06:00

On October 22nd we had our first piano recital. I think dressing up for a Halloween theme eased some of the nerves, but not all of them. Luz didn't play, but she did dress up and did want her picture taken by the piano. :)

I can't believe my baby is 2 weeks old!

2010-10-15T14:30:00.000-06:00

Wow! In most ways the past 2 weeks have flown by... We went for his check-up today, which is actually one of the best check-ups you have to do. They do have to do the PKU poke at 2 weeks, but no vaccine pokes. Ezra's stats are fairly amazing to me. He is apparently a very efficient eater, which is not a huge surprise, but still amazing. At birth, he weighed 8 pounds. Upon release from the hospital, he weighed 7 1/2 pounds. Today he weighed 8 pounds 10 ounces. He has also grown from 19 1/2 inches to 20 1/2 inches. However, his head circumference is in the 10th percentile, which means that clothes fit him. :)

He is really grasping the day/night thing pretty well. Mind you, he is still a sleepy-head during the day, but we try to keep him awake more. Luz is doing her part by playing with him lots right after feeding which is when I want lots of stimulation. She is also trying to help him learn to sleep through the playing of the piano, singing at the top of her lungs, and various other loud noises. He will have to thank her someday for all that she is teaching him at this very young age.

The only confusion seems to be at 6am. He goes to bed around 9-10, wakes up around midnight, and again at 3...all of those times he just goes right back to sleep like he's supposed to. But at 6am, Ezra thinks that it is daytime and wants to interact. I have explained to him several times that our family schedule indicates that 6am is still nighttime and that no one is up to interact with at that hour. He does eventually go back to sleep and then usually wakes up about 9-9:30 for the day, which is much more appropriate. We are obviously still working on this though. Too bad Luz is sleeping during that time or I'm sure she could help teach him a thing or two. :)

Juan has been a lifesaver this week! Last week he worked normal hours, which was fine. I asked him to try to be around more this week though, and he has been. He has been home all week and it has been fabulous! I'm gearing up for him going back to work on Monday...

10/4/10 Relaxing on the couch. I actually think that Ezra is the only one who is really asleep in this picture. Juan and Luz are faking it.

10/4/10 After Ezra's first bath. He was a little stressed out at first, but warmed up pretty quickly.

10/14/10 This picture makes him look pretty big, but Ezra is still actually a very little baby.

10/14/10 On the other hand, Luz is getting HUGE!

Our New Arrival!

2010-10-04T22:00:00.003-06:00

Ezra Juan Escalante was born Friday, October 1, 2010 at 10:43 p.m. after a quick delivery. He weighed 8 pounds even and was 19 1/2 inches long. We are so excited and blessed to have him with us.

Before:

Ezra's debut:

With Proud Papa and Big Sister Luz:

We are famous!

2010-09-30T18:10:00.003-06:00

We made in Robyn's blog!!!
http://www.greensmoothiegirl.com/blog/2010/09/29/a-cute-green-smoothie-mustache-on-luz/

39 Weeks!

2010-09-27T22:22:00.000-06:00

Today I went to the doctor again. He offered to strip my membranes, induce, etc. But I decided to see what my body wants to do on its own. So, here's hoping the rest of the week is full of lots of contractions and some big news! He did have me schedule another appt. for Friday morning just in case. Hopefully I will have had a baby by then. :)

38 Weeks!

2010-09-22T00:10:00.000-06:00

Well, today I went to the doctor. He was very surprised that I am still pregnant. I am dilated to 3.5 and, according to the doctor, could have a baby at any moment. I'm still contracting a lot, but not much more than I have been for the past month or so. The waiting game...

Bye Tia! :(

2010-09-09T22:55:00.001-06:00

Today Tia Stephanie left for Maryland. We are very sad that she won't be around for Luz to cuddle with in the mornings, paint toenails, make cookies, read stories, and the many other fun things that we have done together this summer. On the other hand, we are excited for her to experience new and exciting things such as rooming with Mom again, going back to school, dating, etc. Good luck Tia!

36 Weeks!

2010-09-09T22:28:00.003-06:00

36 Weeks! Obviously BAD hair day. Other points of interest are the swollen upper lip, big zit on my face, shirt that no longer covers my belly, and hugely swollen feet that you can't see.

Happy Birthday to me (cont'd)

2010-09-07T23:10:00.001-06:00

And now for the official birthday post:
Saturday - What I really wanted this year for my birthday was to spend some time together and for Juan to work on a list of small things around the house that I've been saving up for him. He was thrilled, of course, with the idea. So Saturday, he and Luz played together.
Sunday - Sunday morning my counselors popped in, surprising me with some original mango cupcakes (of which I did not get a picture unfortunately), a book, and a cute card. Thanks! Then we got to go to Diego's baby blessing and hang out with our friends Antonio and Veronica. So fun! We got home and Samuel cooked dinner. Thanks Samuel!

Baby Diego and Mama Veronica

Monday - Juan and Luz played, hung out, and did some errands together. I got to go to Sam's Club with my friend Tepoe. Then Juan barbecued hamburgers for me (and the rest of the family). We had some great ice cream sundaes and I got to open some fabulous gifts. Thanks to all!

Me, Samuel, and Victoria...all ready to blow out our candles!

Bye Tio! :(

2010-09-07T22:44:00.005-06:00

Today Tio Matthew left for Rexburg. We are very sad that he won't be around to help Luz go potty, play purses and babies, eat paletas after nap, help us start the car, and the many other fun things that we have done together this summer. On the other hand, my baby brother has grown up and is off to live with roommates, study, buy his own food, clean his own apartment, and all of the other exciting adventures that come with being a FRESHMAN in college!

The anatomy of peace : resolving the heart of conflict by The Arbinger Institute (Non-fiction)

2010-09-06T22:21:00.001-06:00

My Rating: I really, really enjoyed reading this book and would highly recommend it!
Appropriate for: Adults, Young adults
My very favorite parts of this book are in the 2nd and 23rd chapters where it talks about "helping things go right!" I realized as I first read that, that that is innate in me. I don't want to just fix problems, I want to make every effort to help things go right. I thought this book was very well written, well explained, and good advice for everyone.

No More Newspapers!!!

2010-09-06T22:05:00.001-06:00

Ladies and Gentlemen, after 11 months of newspaper delivery between the hours of 1am and 6am without any sort of sleeping in or break or anything, that chapter of our life is over! Juan's last day was yesterday. He claims to have almost cried himself to sleep last night over the thought of not waking up at 3am, but I know better. :) I'll be so happy for him to sleep through the night for a couple of weeks...until Baby Boy is born.

Happy Birthday to me! :)

2010-09-05T23:41:00.000-06:00

Today I am grateful for a wonderful family...Mom, brothers, sisters, husband, daughter, aunts, uncles, grandparents...all who have taught me how to love. Thank you!

Book Review: Tower of Strength by Annette Lyon (LDS Fiction)

2010-09-01T11:12:00.019-06:00

My Rating: Great! Loved the plot, fairly revolutionary for the time period.
Appropriate for: Adults, Young adults
From the back cover: Weaving themes of loss and renewal, this poignant tale explores a vital choice each of us must make: to seek safety in isolation or to embrace the painful yet beautiful complexities of life and love. I enjoyed this book because of the strength of character each of the people displayed in the face of great affliction and trials. It was inspiring to me to read of their hope and faith.

1 Year Anniversary

2010-08-30T22:12:00.008-06:00

I have the immense privilege of serving with 3 amazing women in my calling right now. I am grateful to Natalie, Michelle, and Tepoe for their dedicated service and for teaching me so much. It's hard to believe that we were sustained on August 30, 2009...and that it's been a whole year already. Thanks ladies! I love you!

Book Review: Have a little faith: a true story by Mitch Albom

2010-08-29T17:19:00.000-06:00

My Rating: Very well thought-out and inspiring to read

Appropriate for: Adults, Young adults
From the book jacket: Have a Little Faith is a book about life's purpose; about losing belief and finding it again; about the divine spark inside us all. It is one man's journey, but it is everyone's story. From the author of Tuesdays with Morrie, Mitch Albom brings us yet another opportunity to look inside ourselves and feel the desire to be a little better and do a little more. I enjoyed this book for just that reason.

Pregnancy update - 34 weeks

2010-08-25T22:24:00.001-06:00

I will post a photo soon. Well, today I went for my 34 week check-up. Good news: blood sugar is good, blood pressure is also good. Bad news: Dilated to 1. Dr. says I need to take it very easy and behave myself the next 2 weeks and he will take the cerclage out at 36 weeks.

On a different note, Baby Boy is beating me up from the inside out! I do not remember feeling this much movement with Luz. We are in for a wild ride with him, I am certain. Also, I have decided on a name for him. Juan is not quite on board yet, but I am still working on him. :)

Dinner tonight

2010-08-25T22:18:00.000-06:00

FINALLY a healthy meal! Cafe Rio style salad (tortilla on the bottom, lettuce, tomatoes and cucumbers from the garden, beans fresh out of the pot) and Green smoothies!!! Yeah!

Book Review: Women of the Book of Mormon by Heather B. Moore (LDS Non fiction)

2010-08-23T23:04:00.001-06:00

My Rating: Very good, insightful, would recommend it.
Appropriate for: Adults, Young adults
Heather Moore describes in detail the history and culture surrounding many of the Book of Mormon scenes featuring women. She also expresses appreciation and empathy for their difficult lives. I enjoyed learning more and gaining additional insight while reading this book. I absolutely loved the artwork!

Wedding reception adventure!

2010-08-22T23:11:00.011-06:00

Carolyn and I, along with 3 little girls, took a drive up to Ogden for a high school friend's wedding reception. Well, it turned into a much bigger adventure than we had bargained for. While exiting the freeway, my car decided not to work anymore. Here's me parked on the side of the road. After figuring out that the car could drive in reverse but not forward, I was finally able to get to the side.

We had to have it towed. (sad) But met so many wonderful people in Ogden. (happy) We did make it to the reception, just as it was ending. (sad) But had a chance to visit with the family in a less crowded environment. (happy) It was so fun to see the Young family after so many years - the last time being at my wedding 5 1/2 years ago!!! Congrats Eric and Trish!

Book Review: Divinely Designed by Rachael Renee Anderson (LDS Fiction)

2010-08-19T21:23:00.000-06:00

My Rating: I LOVED this book! I loved the characters! I couldn't put it down!

Appropriate for: Adults, Young adults
From the back cover: This delightful tale by Rachael Renee Anderson combines wit and romance with the reality that change is difficult, but it can bring about some of life's greatest adventures. Divinely Designed is a sure antidote for gloom and a light-hearted reminder that even the darkest forks in the road can lead somewhere brilliant. I enjoyed this book because it was so well-written and I felt like I was part of the story. I seriously couldn't put it down and didn't get much sleep last night finishing it.

Dinner - Wednesday

2010-08-18T22:10:00.001-06:00

Mexican Soup...some people call it taco soup. Other members of my family make it with ground beef, and chips. I have it down to only 3 ingredients, which is perfect for me! I ladle some of those Crockpot beans into a pot, along with some of the juice/liquid (whatever variety I have cooked - sometimes pinto, black, or red), along with a can or two of corn and a can or two of diced tomatoes Mexican style. That's it. Plenty of flavor and those beans add the carbs and protein your body needs. Heat through and serve in big bowls with a sprinkle of grated cheese on top. No chips. I sometimes add zucchini also. :)

Book Review: Turning Hearts by Deanne Blackhurst (LDS Fiction)

2010-08-18T14:59:00.000-06:00

My Rating: Uplifting, intriguing, true to life story

Appropriate for: Adults, Young adults
From the back cover: Amanda knows there's a certain family out there that needs the gospel--and she also knows she's the one who's supposed to bring it to them. I enjoyed this book because of Amanda's struggles and what she learns in the process. We're all in different stages of the process.

New Recipe: Stuffed Mini Peppers

2010-08-16T14:58:00.000-06:00

Monday dinner: Pinto beans cooked in the Crockpot, corn tortillas heated, a little bit of grated cheese and sour cream, lettuce, carrots, and stuffed mini peppers.

The beans and tortillas along with a salad is a pretty standard meal for us. My brother Samuel has recently come to live with us and he eats a lot. I decided the meal was missing something. I looked in my empty fridge and saw the rest of the bag of mini peppers that I bought last week to go in the stir-fry. I then had used them in a great salad, and still quite a few left. There was a recipe on the bag that went something like this, but I modified it with what I had.

Recipe:
1 package cream cheese, softened
Herbs (I used a little bit of thyme, a little bit of basil, and a little bit of dill)
I cut open the tops of the peppers most of the way, leaving the tops attached, took out the seeds and stuffed the mixture inside. I sprayed a cookie sheet with non-stick spray and put them all on it. I think I baked them on 400 for about 15 minutes.
My Rating: Yummy, pretty easy

Book Review: How the Garcia Girls Lost Their Accents by Julia Alvarez (Fiction)

2010-08-15T21:59:00.001-06:00

My Rating: I read someone else's review and thought this book might be a good fit for me, but sadly, I was very disappointed. I did not think it was very well-written, very entertaining, and it was somewhat vulgar.

Appropriate for: Adults
From the back cover: When their father's part in a plot against a cruel dictator forces them to flee the Dominican Republic, the Garcia sisters--Carla, Sandra, Yolanda, and Sofia--come to America. In America, the Garcia girls try to assimilate into the mainstream. Through it all, they remain caught between the old world and the new. Julia Alvarez is also an immigrant from the Dominican Republic, so I wondered if some of this was biographical. She says that it is fiction. What I did enjoy about this book was that it started in the present and went backward. I thought that was an interesting way to write and gave more understanding as time went back.

What do you eat?

2010-08-15T14:51:00.012-06:00

People ask me, "If you don't eat as much meat, what, exactly, do you eat?" I have decided to post what we eat for dinner for a week or two for my own benefit. We eat more meat than is ideal, in my opinion, but we generally use it as a condiment. We are not a "raw" family. That means that my husband is a little resistant to things going too far, so I do what I can. One more disclaimer is that I'm pregnant and don't have much energy. So, we'll see how my posts go...

Sunday dinner: A casserole with almost all of the veggies in my fridge. Potatoes (scrubbed with skin on), carrots, broccoli, zucchini, mushrooms, green onions. I diced the potatoes and boiled them with the carrots until they were tender crisp. Then I cut everything else up and mixed it together with a can of cream of mushroom soup (completely unhealthy) and a can of cream of celery soup (also bad for you). Sprayed a casserole dish with non-stick spray, put the mixture in the pan and sprinkled cheese on top. I cooked it on 400 for about 25 minutes and we enjoyed a tasty dinner. Pretty good for no dinner plan. :)

Happy Birthday Mom!

2010-08-13T22:45:00.009-06:00

It's my mom's birthday today! She is an amazing woman! I love her dearly. And I think this song describes her very well. She continues to watch over me.

Green Smoothies

2010-08-13T11:30:00.001-06:00

As a follow-up to my previous post regarding a healthier lifestyle, I wanted to post a cute picture of Luz and her smoothie face. Juan got me a Blend-tec for Christmas and I have tried to put it to very good use. My normal recipe is 2 bananas for sweetness and creaminess, a lot of spinach (stuff the blender full of spinach, blend it up, stuff it full again), 1 cup water, 3 handfuls of frozen fruit. I find that when we are all drinking our green smoothies regularly we are healthy and happy!

More Meatless Meals

2010-08-09T21:18:00.032-06:00

About a year ago I embarked on a journey of a healthier lifestyle. It all started when I began running every evening as part of my Personal Progress project. Exercising has always had a certain effect on me...that is, when I am working hard to get fit, I naturally tend to watch what I am putting into my body very closely. About the same time, I read several books on nutrition and decided to start phasing out the meat. I had to start slowly and gradually I have achieved about a twice per week meal plan that includes meat. The other days we simply have plant strong meals. Luckily we love beans around here, so that covers it most nights. Since Matthew and Stephanie have been living with us, they each take a turn to cook and their nights pretty much cover us meat-wise. Tonight I made an amazing stir fry in my new-to-me wok. (Thanks Grandma!) It was very exciting! I told Luz it was my new toy, and she gave me a funny look. :) One thing I love about this meal are the colors! Green onions, green beans, broccoli, celery, red peppers, orange peppers, yellow peppers, carrots, mushrooms. Another thing I love is that everything was fresh. I served it over brown rice.

Some may laugh at my endeavors, but I lost 30 pounds beyond the pregnancy with Luz weight-gain. So far I do not have gestational diabetes this time around. And although I am large and pregnant and unable to exercise right now, I am not on complete bedrest yet. All of those things make it very "worth it" to me to have a healthier lifestyle. Not to mention any future benefits for my family.

Book Review: Take Four by Karen Kingsbury (Christian Fiction) - Part 4 of 4

2010-08-09T21:17:00.002-06:00

My Rating: Amazing! Karen is one of my very favorite authors and has never disappointed me yet!

Appropriate for: Young adults, Adults
Wrapping up the "Above the Line" series, Take Four is another fabulous novel about how everyone has an opportunity to change their life. I enjoyed this book because of the amazing people in the story. I feel like they are part of my family because I have come to know them so well. If you have never read a book by Karen Kingsbury, I highly recommend doing so!

Baptism

2010-08-07T11:02:00.010-06:00

One of Luz' favorite things do to is attend baptisms. She talks about them for weeks! She loves looking at pictures of Jesus being baptized and talks about the future when she can be baptized too. Seriously. It's cute. I happen to be in charge of monthly baptisms for the Primary children, but she only gets to go with me when Papa is working. Today we all got to go to a friend's baptism, Dylan. It was a great day! Thanks for inviting us!

Jenny Phillips Concert

2010-08-06T22:08:00.003-06:00

Thanks to a reminder phone call from my lovely sis about 6:00 tonight, Juan, Luz and I were able to make it to a free concert featuring Jenny Phillips. She was great! Her music really reaches out to all. I am very impressed with her as a person. She just had her fourth baby earlier this year and it doesn't seem to have slowed her down. But I think I know why. Toward the end of her performance tonight, she shared an experience she had that changed her life. She was driving on the freeway and a railroad tie was about to be flung into her windshield. She just knew that she was going to die and quickly reflected on whether she had done all she should while on the Earth. She didn't feel quite ready and prayed for more time. Talk about making the most of each and every day! Am I doing what Heavenly Father expects of me each and every day of my lives? What more can I do to make the most of my unknown time on Earth?

Book Review: Spires of Stone by Annette Lyon (LDS Fiction) - Part 3 of 4

2010-08-03T12:38:00.030-06:00

My Rating: A little slower than House on the Hill and At the Journey's End...or maybe I was just way more tired. Also, this book did not have the same characters as the previous two...I was expecting more connections. All in all, still a very good book.
Appropriate for: Young adults, Adults
From the back cover: When Ben and his two brothers come home after more than two years of serving a mission to the Eastern states, Bethany's feelings of heartache and anger also return--fiercer than ever. And so do Ben's feelings for her. What follows is a charming historical romance complete with wonderful characters and witty dialogue that explores the redemption and power of finding--and rediscovering--true love. I enjoyed this book because it had a more complex plot and I felt like I came to know the characters.

Panty Update

2010-08-02T11:21:00.003-06:00

Luz woke up today and said she wanted a diaper on instead of panties. Ok fine. Then about 11:30 she brought me the panties and said she was ready. Not sure what to think of this. Maybe all the activities this weekend have her tired and wanting less stress in her life?

Stalker Mom

2010-07-31T11:39:00.000-06:00

I saw this as someone's Facebook post and really liked it.
PROMISE TO MY CHILDREN: I will stalk you, freak out on you, lecture you, drive you crazy, be your worst nightmare, embarrass you in front of your friends, and hunt you down like a bloodhound until the day you understand why I do it. Then I will know you are a responsible adult. It's all because I love you! You will never find someone who loves & cares about you more than your Mom! :)

Pioneer Day Fun

2010-07-25T21:56:00.003-06:00

Here in Utah, Pioneer Day (July 24th) is a big deal. I haven't really been "into" it before, but after all the fun we had over the 4th of July weekend, I thought we should give it an honest-to-goodness try. I have come to appreciate the fact that children need to be taught gratitude more now than in years past. One thing I firmly believe in is that if you appreciate the past, you will be even more grateful for what you have today. And that is the basis for our historical celebrations this year.

Today I am thinking of the pioneer women and appreciating the pregnant ones. If I had been a pioneer, I would not have been able to carry my babies to term. I am in awe of their hardships and sacrifices and grateful for modern medicine.

1. We got up, got ready, and went over to a family breakfast at the Jensen's about 9:30. Thanks Jensens! They had pancakes, eggs, sausage, scones with honey butter, fruit, and much more. They are really awesome. Thanks for inviting us over!!!

Here is our little pioneer daughter. I did not make the bonnet, but I did make the skirt!

2. We went over to North Park where there is a Pioneer village. There were also about a million Pioneer games and crafts. I am very, very impressed with how well-done everything was. Provo really knows how to put an event together, even a free one!

Luz got to ride a live pony carousel. Fun!

We met up with cousins Victoria and Julianna. Here are the Pioneer girls in front of the quilt display.

The 3 of us.

Luz and Papa playing a game.

3. We left a little before 2:00 and came home for a nap.

4. Benjamin, Tami & fam came over about 4:30 to play in the water!

Juan and Luz playing in our newly acquired bigger pool.

5. And then we had a carne asada and played inside for a bit.

6. Later that night, Uncle Sal and Uncle Samuel came into town en route from Rexburg to Burbank. We had a nice visit.

A Sad Day

2010-07-22T22:52:00.013-06:00

You know how some experiences that other people have make you think about your own life? Today that happened to me. I got a call this morning from my sister-in-law, who told me that her sister's baby had passed away and she was going to have to deliver her at 18 1/2 weeks. I got off the phone in tears. During the entire day I just thought of her and how sad I am for her. I wish no one had to go through that. Losing a baby is one of the hardest things I have ever had to do and I don't think there are many other experiences that feel quite like it.

Tonight I needed a good cry, so Juan and I watched Love Takes Wing (#7 from this series on DVD) and ate Mexican sweet bread. It was nice to spend a few moments together and get out some tears.

By the way, I absolutely love this series and highly recommend it! Every movie makes me cry, but sometimes that's a good thing.

Sewing Project #3 - pillowcase

2010-07-21T22:58:00.000-06:00

In preparation for my next project, Tami suggested I make a pillowcase...without a pattern. I managed to figure it out mostly on my own (which was the point of the exercise). I chose this adorable fabric for Luz because she sings "Twinkle, twinkle little star," every night as she is putting herself to sleep. I have plans to make a coordinating one in blue.

Book Review: At the Water's Edge by Annette Lyon (LDS Fiction)

2010-07-21T21:10:00.002-06:00

My Rating: A heart-warming, not-so-predictable novel.

Appropriate for: Young adults, Adults
From the back cover: At the Water's Edge is the story of a young woman who desperately wants to put her past behind her, and through the power of prayer finds the strength to move forward. I enjoyed this book because of the emotions involved. It was very compelling to read and I couldn't put it down. Annette Lyon is one of my new favorite authors!

Panty Post #8

2010-07-20T20:29:00.002-06:00

One week since the fun began. I will no longer be posting daily about potty-training. Only the really eventful moments will show up now.

Today we (Luz, Tio Matthew, Tia Stephanie, and I) had a few things to do. As it turns out, I think Luz checked out the bathrooms in each and every place. The Quilted Bear, JoAnn's, and Old Navy. Old Navy was very frustrating so I'll write about that one. Luz turns to me amidst looking at clothes and says that she has to go. I grab her hand and run to the bathroom, which is occupied. Well, the lady took a little too long and sadly, Luz didn't quite hold it long enough. Then the auto-flush toilet in Old Navy really ticked me off! There Luz was just sitting there trying to go to the bathroom and it kept flushing, scaring her half to death. Then when I wanted it to flush...nothing! Tia Stephanie came to the rescue and brought our supplies from the car. Luz changed panties and everything turned out fine.

29 weeks!

2010-07-19T22:37:00.001-06:00

Ok, I'm not exactly sure why I keep posting unflattering pictures of myself. But I just want you all to know what I look like at 29 weeks. Yeah, I know, some women are just barely showing about now.

Book Review: Imprints by Rachel Ann Nunes (Fiction) - Part 2 of 2

2010-07-19T21:29:00.003-06:00

My Rating: This book will exercise power over you. You will be unable to put it down!

Appropriate for: Young adults, Adults
Autumn can "see" images that are imprinted on objects. Her desire to help others leads her to risk her own life in order to find a couple of missing people. Author Rachel Ann Nunes calls this genre, "Paranormal." It isn't sci-fi or weird, in fact while reading it seems like something that could really happen. I enjoyed this book because I couldn't put it down.

Llama Fest!

2010-07-18T21:30:00.006-06:00

As I mentioned, Juan, Luz, Tio Matthew, and I went to the Llama Fest at the Hare Krishna Temple in Spanish Fork on Saturday. Other than extreme heat, it was a very enjoyable afternoon. We will definitely go back (although maybe a little later in the day when it is cooler)!

Outside, there were plenty of llamas to see and touch, as well as performances on 3 different stages. Inside, we could go upstairs and see a singing/dancing ritual or go downstairs and enjoy a meal. Check out the info.

We enjoyed the vegetarian meal and some mango lemonade.

Luz was a bit timid to touch the llamas, although she found a little 3 week old baby llama that she absolutely loved.

Us, in front of some miniature Zebus.

On the way home we stopped by the Hawaiian Shave Ice place in downtown Spanish Fork and enjoyed a cool treat.

Panty Post #7

2010-07-18T20:26:00.001-06:00

Church in panties today...went WELL! I actually had to go to a meeting in another building, so Juan and Luz were off to church together and she was fine. Once I got over there, I took her out of Nursery to go to the bathroom and talked to her teacher who said that she had told her she had to go once before also. I was surprised that she had told her teacher and let her take her. I guess when you gotta go, you gotta go! :)

A Little Bit of Heaven

2010-07-17T22:23:00.013-06:00

This week we have been talking about getting a little wading pool for the backyard. I was hesitant because it seemed like a rip-off to pay $15 for a little plastic thing to put water in. Last night Juan decided that he was going to surprise Luz. His plan was to deliver the papers in the morning and then go by and get one, bring it home and fill it with water so that the water would be warm by the time Luz was ready to play. Well, she spotted the pool while looking out the back window after breakfast. I told her that Papa had brought it home and that she could change into her maya. She got all ready and then went to excitedly wake Papa up. They were so cute playing together for quite a while. Juan, you're a great dad!!!

Panty Post #6

2010-07-17T20:21:00.005-06:00

Luz doesn't even care about treats. She loves going potty in the toilet. We went to the Llama Fest in Spanish Fork today in panties!!! (First time out of the house without a diaper on.) Upon our arrival we scoped out the bathrooms and found port-a-potties outside. At first she wanted to check them out. One step in, however, she decided she was above using them and wanted to wait. Who can blame the girl? Thankfully, she really was able to wait. Later on we found some indoor bathrooms and she made it every single time. I am a proud mom today!

Panty Post #5

2010-07-16T18:05:00.000-06:00

This morning we switched the treat of choice from sugared liquid to a fruit snack. Not a package, but a single one, in a bowl on the counter. We magically ran out of juice. I also decided that we should play upstairs all morning. Amazingly, Luz has eaten normally again and been her pleasant and happy self. She is also going to the bathroom much more normally, you know once every 30 to 45 minutes instead of every 2 or 3 minutes. She recognizes when she needs to go in advance. We are making LOTS of progress today!

Panty Posts #3 & #4

2010-07-15T17:56:00.004-06:00

Yesterday we ran up and down the stairs all day long! (The bathroom is upstairs.) Luz is doing great at letting me know that she needs to go. I feel like we ran a marathon, however, and I started contracting like crazy in the evening. I laid down for a few hours and they stopped.

Today I recruited an awesome team to help with potty learning. Tia, Tio, and Victoria & Julianna were all on board with running up and down so that I didn't have to. Thanks a million guys! Luz did great today!

Panty Post #2

2010-07-13T22:03:00.005-06:00

Today we went through 6 pair of panties by 6:30pm. We are all tuckered out! The good news is that by the end of the day Luz was saying, "Pee pee," before she actually went. We didn't quite make it to the toilet, but very close. Her treat of choice: Capri Suns. She went in the toilet about million times as well. :)

Starting off the day with a clean pair of PINK panties!

Busy with some reading/singing material.