Praying For...Tyson, our nearly eight-year-old lego maniac...that he will know Jesus, the Prince of Peace, and strive to be like Him...that those in authority over him will encourage his talents, spirituality, scholarship, and so forth with gentleness and pure love...that the hearts of leaders of nations and worldwide neighbors will soften and their ears be open to the whisperings of gentle, godly inspiration...that more people will seek God and His beautiful plan.
General Conference Sermon of the Week...This week I studied We’ll Ascend Together By Linda K. Burton. I appreciated her timely instruction that we women stop deriding men in our lives and refuse to accept the new culture that wishes to eliminate fathers from families. I also accept her challenge to speak words of kindness more often to my cherished companion and about him, to lift the men in my family and express gratitude for the ways they fulfill their divine and complementary roles and seek the help of the Holy Ghost to teach us how we can better lift them. "I invite each of us to heed Elder Jeffrey R. Holland’s heartfelt plea: 'Brothers and sisters, in this long eternal quest to be more like our Savior, may we try to be ‘perfect’ men and women in at least this one way now—by offending not in word, or more positively put, by speaking with a new tongue, the tongue of angels.' "Wherefore, my beloved brethren, I know that if ye shall follow the Son, with full purpose of heart, acting no hypocrisy and no deception before God, but with real intent, repenting of your sins, witnessing unto the Father that ye are willing to take upon you the name of Christ, by baptism—yea, by following your Lord and your Savior down into the water, according to his word, behold, then shall ye receive the Holy Ghost; yea, then cometh the baptism of fire and of the Holy Ghost; and then can ye speak with the tongue of angels, and shout praises unto the Holy One of Israel," 2 Nephi 31:13.
Cucina Fresca...Grandma passed a few weeks ago. In the past, family events with food were an open door to mock me. This time my dear uncle made some beautiful salads for any vegans in the group. I thought I would be the only one. BUT!!!! four other people fought over (well vied for) the other three salads. I'm not the only one now AND some are now thoughtful enough to think of herbivores...Cooking in the rice cooker is lots of fun. Probably the most exciting thing is the ease of cooking polenta in it. For dinner on Saturday, we ate herbed polenta with marinara and baby greens. Strangely, even though neither of us was raised with polenta, we both consider it to be a delightful, comfort food. This week I'm going to try Vegan Rice Cooker Frittata.
2/3 c chickpea flour (aka garbanzo bean flour)
3/4 c water
2 green onions, chopped
1/2 c mushrooms, chopped
1/4 c kale, chopped
1/4 c artichoke hearts, chopped
2-3 sun dried tomatoes (not in oil), minced
1 T nutritional yeast
1/4-1/2 t dried herbs of choice
black salt
black pepper
Mix the chickpea flour with the water, scallion, and a couple twists of black pepper. Cook the mushrooms and a pinch of black salt, covered, over medium low heat for about 5-10 minutes.
Mix the veggies and chickpea batter. Pour into the rice cooker. Cook on white rice setting. Enjoy!
Doctor Ginger, Medicine Woman...Yup, just a student of herbal and nutritional alternative healing--not a doctor at all. I'm so grateful for herbs. Although recovery from this flu/cold is slow, herbs have made it more bearable. Sometimes, I just cannot breathe. This morning during and after our bike ride, I coughed and wheezed. Dr. Christopher's Lung and Bronchial got me breathing in a manner of minutes. Also, my eyes are pretty weak from the fever and such. Dr. Christopher's Herbal Eye Bright formula with cayenne wakes them up in a hurry. When he was living, he testified his preparations were divinely inspired. I believe it.
Bibliophilia...sent Tyson Encyclopedia Brown and the Case of the Secret Pitch by Sobol, Runaway Ralph by Cleary, and LEGO Chain Reactions by Pat Murphy.
Movement...biking the extensive trails around my home six days a week with J. We are up to 8 miles a day, which takes about an hour. This is a pretty slow pace, but we're getting stronger and faster by the day. Usually, we stop about half way through our ride for a rest. Because I get bored sitting around, I do essentrics stretches to loosen up my lower body. Even so, all this riding sort of put essentrics on the back shelf, which was not really ok with me. After this flu/cold thing dissipates, I'll have enough energy to finish my morning ride with 30 minutes of essentrics. I also found a before bed, stress reducing, essentrics workout that is fantastic. The statement 'I love movement' emanating from my lips has me wondering if I'm really a new Stepford wife.
Garden Gate...I've also discovered that gardening is very meditative for me. This week has been so fun, as I watch all the baby herbs emerge from the soil. It's funny though. I planted those seeds, when I was deliriously ill. Therefore, I don't know what any of them are and won't until they begin to put on true leaves. One gogi bush has been struggling to get over transplant shock. It seems the drainage in that spot isn't optimal. Since I don't want to kill the new plant, I dug a trench around it and filled it with a lava sand and wood chips to encourage better drainage. Plus, I gave it more shade like I did with the other gogis. I hope it works...I'm so much happier with so many meaningful things to do.
Needle News...still making lavender strawberries for my closet. Gotta love lavender. Brought Grandma's sewing machine home the other day. It's sitting in my breakfast nook.
Family History...I got a whole box of pictures and documents from Grandma that I will scan and upload to family search and ancestry. My great grandmother's hand written death certificate is likely in the lot. I sure hope it made it into the box. Thanks to mom and Uncle Paul for allowing me the privilege of keeping these precious documents and mementoes.
Showing posts with label wholesome recreation. Show all posts
Showing posts with label wholesome recreation. Show all posts
Sunday, May 24, 2015
Sunday, December 21, 2014
signs everywhere
Praying For...peace on earth and good will toward all men...
Jesus Word..."For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved," John 3:17. Heavenly Father really does love us. Although He will never force anyone to follow His commandments, He gave them to make our journey back to Him more joyful and safe. If everyone lived by His Old Testament 10 commandments and New Testament greatest two commandments, their would be no war or poverty or despair. Jesus was sent to save us from ourselves and the effects of those who choose to follow the evil one. I love this season of the year, because everywhere there are signs that His grace can and does work to soften the hearts of men.
Cucina Fresca...We're invited to Christmas dinner at my Dad's house, where his wonderful wife will perform her cooking magic. Since I can't eat their food (her cooking is out of this world delicious), I'll consider taking a vegan quiche. OR maybe I'll just take a ginormous salad. I've been wanting to make this, since I saw it on youtube. Maybe now I'll get around to it.
Vegan Quiche with Potato Crust
2 yellow potatoes, sliced paper thin (need to get a mandolin for this house)
1 T nutritional yeast
1/3 c chick pea flour
1/3 c raw sunflower seeds
1/2 c rolled oats
1 T golden flax seeds
1 c water
3 T lemon juice
1 t celtic sea salt + 1/2 tsp black Himalayan salt
1 t salt free mustard
1 can, salt-brined artichokes, drained and diced
2 c kale, steamed, squeezed dry, and minced
herbs to taste (sage, parsley, and thyme are traditional flavors for Christmas although basil, parsley, and thyme would be delicious, too.)
1/2 c mince sausage: mushrooms, onions, flax meal, and cauliflower with herbs to taste (sage, parsley, and thyme are traditional flavors for Christmas although basil, parsley, and thyme would be delicious, too). Bake in parchment lined pan at 350F for 20 minutes.
Sprinkle with nutmeg and freshly ground black pepper
Prepare veg. Bake mince sausage. Line pie pan with potato slices and bake for 15-20 minutes at 350F. Mix filling ingredients in a blender for 1 minute. Stir in artichokes and kale. Pour over potato crust. Dot with mince sausage. Sprinkle with black pepper and nutmeg. Bake at 350F for 30 minutes. Rest quiche for 10 minutes before cutting. Eat hot or cold.
Sound of Music...most days I play and sing hymns. My problem is the song keys in my book are never in my range. Back in high school, when I played the guitar, that problem was solved with a capo. But...I think I missed a learning opportunity. Since there is no capo for uke that I know of, I decided to transpose the chording for my hymns. Searching the internet, I found a sweet tutorial. Now I sing in a key comfortable for my no longer soprano, almost alto voice.
Pen and Brush...The last story I began petered out before it got anywhere. Like so many of my books, I couldn't think of a problem. I'm the proverbial character and setting girl. I get so attached to my characters, I don't want to give them problems. But...I started another one that is more promising. Before I even began, I knew what the problem should be. Maybe it will go somewhere, but even if it doesn't, I'll have fun building a little cottage and planting the garden around it with my new mind friends. I even have a black, giant schnauzer named Spooky. Maybe after I finish my Spooky story, I'll go back to the last one. I can't leave the characters to languish without knowing their story. Writing my day dreams keeps me content with the life I lead. I may never have the country cottage, orchard, and garden in my mind, but I have a nice little backyard with fruit trees behind a comfortable home.
Events...Some friends surprised us Friday night, when they invited themselves over for games. Since moving here, our thirty+ years friendship is just like if we had never met. Spencer is visiting, too, which always makes me happy.
Jesus Word..."For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved," John 3:17. Heavenly Father really does love us. Although He will never force anyone to follow His commandments, He gave them to make our journey back to Him more joyful and safe. If everyone lived by His Old Testament 10 commandments and New Testament greatest two commandments, their would be no war or poverty or despair. Jesus was sent to save us from ourselves and the effects of those who choose to follow the evil one. I love this season of the year, because everywhere there are signs that His grace can and does work to soften the hearts of men.
Cucina Fresca...We're invited to Christmas dinner at my Dad's house, where his wonderful wife will perform her cooking magic. Since I can't eat their food (her cooking is out of this world delicious), I'll consider taking a vegan quiche. OR maybe I'll just take a ginormous salad. I've been wanting to make this, since I saw it on youtube. Maybe now I'll get around to it.
Vegan Quiche with Potato Crust
2 yellow potatoes, sliced paper thin (need to get a mandolin for this house)
1 T nutritional yeast
1/3 c chick pea flour
1/3 c raw sunflower seeds
1/2 c rolled oats
1 T golden flax seeds
1 c water
3 T lemon juice
1 t celtic sea salt + 1/2 tsp black Himalayan salt
1 t salt free mustard
1 can, salt-brined artichokes, drained and diced
2 c kale, steamed, squeezed dry, and minced
herbs to taste (sage, parsley, and thyme are traditional flavors for Christmas although basil, parsley, and thyme would be delicious, too.)
1/2 c mince sausage: mushrooms, onions, flax meal, and cauliflower with herbs to taste (sage, parsley, and thyme are traditional flavors for Christmas although basil, parsley, and thyme would be delicious, too). Bake in parchment lined pan at 350F for 20 minutes.
Sprinkle with nutmeg and freshly ground black pepper
Prepare veg. Bake mince sausage. Line pie pan with potato slices and bake for 15-20 minutes at 350F. Mix filling ingredients in a blender for 1 minute. Stir in artichokes and kale. Pour over potato crust. Dot with mince sausage. Sprinkle with black pepper and nutmeg. Bake at 350F for 30 minutes. Rest quiche for 10 minutes before cutting. Eat hot or cold.
Sound of Music...most days I play and sing hymns. My problem is the song keys in my book are never in my range. Back in high school, when I played the guitar, that problem was solved with a capo. But...I think I missed a learning opportunity. Since there is no capo for uke that I know of, I decided to transpose the chording for my hymns. Searching the internet, I found a sweet tutorial. Now I sing in a key comfortable for my no longer soprano, almost alto voice.
Pen and Brush...The last story I began petered out before it got anywhere. Like so many of my books, I couldn't think of a problem. I'm the proverbial character and setting girl. I get so attached to my characters, I don't want to give them problems. But...I started another one that is more promising. Before I even began, I knew what the problem should be. Maybe it will go somewhere, but even if it doesn't, I'll have fun building a little cottage and planting the garden around it with my new mind friends. I even have a black, giant schnauzer named Spooky. Maybe after I finish my Spooky story, I'll go back to the last one. I can't leave the characters to languish without knowing their story. Writing my day dreams keeps me content with the life I lead. I may never have the country cottage, orchard, and garden in my mind, but I have a nice little backyard with fruit trees behind a comfortable home.
Events...Some friends surprised us Friday night, when they invited themselves over for games. Since moving here, our thirty+ years friendship is just like if we had never met. Spencer is visiting, too, which always makes me happy.
Tuesday, September 30, 2014
called to serve
Jesus the Christ Chapter 16...
Matthew 10:1-4
Mark 3:13-19
Luke 6:12-16
Luke 3:13
John 15:16
Acts 1:22
I've been called to many positions of service all involving teaching of some sort. When I think of it, all these callings were from Jesus. True, as a woman, I thankfully won't be called to be an apostle. However, the Holy Ghost whispers the way we should go if we will but listen. Sometimes callings are immeasurably fulfilling but sometimes they are simply difficult learning experiences. In a minute way, this mirrors the experiences of the apostles called to preach during Jesus' time, fulfilling but difficult. So far, I haven't been in danger during a calling unless you count my injury from driving a tractor at the farm. However, painful as it was, it's nothing like being stoned or put to death. I'm grateful that these little tidbits were included in scripture to encourage anyone who seeks a religious life of any magnitude.
Matthew 10:1-4
Mark 3:13-19
Luke 6:12-16
Luke 3:13
John 15:16
Acts 1:22
I've been called to many positions of service all involving teaching of some sort. When I think of it, all these callings were from Jesus. True, as a woman, I thankfully won't be called to be an apostle. However, the Holy Ghost whispers the way we should go if we will but listen. Sometimes callings are immeasurably fulfilling but sometimes they are simply difficult learning experiences. In a minute way, this mirrors the experiences of the apostles called to preach during Jesus' time, fulfilling but difficult. So far, I haven't been in danger during a calling unless you count my injury from driving a tractor at the farm. However, painful as it was, it's nothing like being stoned or put to death. I'm grateful that these little tidbits were included in scripture to encourage anyone who seeks a religious life of any magnitude.
Sunday, August 24, 2014
greatest blessing
Praying For...Cole, our little professor, that he will be happy, healthy, safe, good, and know Jesus as his Savior and Friend...that he will learn to be a peacemaker...that he will escape the evils and violence of this world...that the leaders of nations will stop their blood-thirsty power-monging to become true leaders instead of heavy-handed dictators and that goes for the president of the US, too...that citizens of the earth will 'listen without prejudice, love without limits, and reverse the hate."
Jesus Word..."A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another," John 13:34. I'm horrified by the war zone that broke this month out in a supposedly peaceful American neighborhood. I'm saddened that this isn't really a new thing. I'm broken hearted that people have lost civility and brotherly love to such an extent that nobody will listen to any opinion that doesn't match their own. We must open civil dialog first seeking to understand. Only when people feel heard will they listen. Racism exists in this country. While it is true that many don't hate others of diverse colors and religions, others do. It's not all light against dark either. I've heard horrible hate spewed by closed minded people of many persuasions. I never really believed that this problem really existed until I experienced it myself. Once a black neighbor, whom I provided free childcare and transportation, brought racism into the picture after two of our children got into a childish fight. My daughter said some terrible things which she had learned at school. He was convinced we taught her those things, refusing to open his eyes to the fact that I served his family daily out of neighborly love. As a minority in Hawaii, I was called names and treated poorly by many. I love Hawaii and the aloha culture but sadly minorities are treated with prejudice by many simple-minded people there. God created humans with variety just as he did animals and plants. Variety is interesting and brings beauty if we can appreciate it.
Bibliophilia...read a cookbook connected with a youtube channel, depression cooking. The book is Clara's Kitchen: Wisdom, Memories, and Recipes from the Great Depression by Clara Cannucciari. It's a very special view of that time period with a lot of great ideas for cooking nutritious plant-based food. Sure, there are a few recipes with animal foods, but these are easily skipped. All have too much oil which is easily omitted. Her wisdom resonates with me. "Where there is dirt there is food...we ate lots of pasta, potatoes, and bread with vegetables, which made us strong and healthy...I lived healthy and strong into my 90s eating this way." I've had lots of fun making some of her recipes and plan to make many more. My favorite so far is pasta with peas although I use frozen peas. I sent Cole Archimedes and the Door of Science, The Golden Goblet, and Life of Fred--Cats. To me education is next in importance to religion and family. I send great books and loving letters to the grandchildren to inspire their love of learning, love of God, and love of Grammy. lol
Cucinia Fresca...The other day I made lentil soup that didn't turn out like it usually does. However, it was much better than any lentil soup I've ever eaten. J gave it an 8, but I give it a 9. It would make a good taco filling but is delicious as a stew in a bowl.
New Lentil Stew
2/3 c brown basmati rice
1/4 c lentils
2 1/4 c water
2 T powdered dried veggie mix
1/4 c each dried spinach and cabbage (or 1/2 c each of fresh)
smoked paprika, dried mustard, chipotle, oregano
Bring to boil. Simmer an hour. Serve topped with hot sauce or red enchilada sauce (2-3 c boiling water to soak 3 dried anaheims and 2 dried anchos until soft. Put in blender with pinch chipotle powder and salt, dry sautéed onion and garlic, 2-3 tomatoes, 1-2 T tapioca starch. Strain and heat to desired consistency).
Visitors...we've had one after another visitors over the month, which to me is heaven. Our final visitor left Friday morning, so now is all quiet again...I like this, too. Mom, Arlen, Emily, Nathan, Sammy, Quinn, and Spencer gave us the clear message that we are wanted, needed, and loved. Family is the greatest blessing. Those that can't travel to visit call when they can, which also brings joy.
Nature News...I'll be sorry to leave the most beautiful, peaceful place on earth. The fog between the massive, sweet, smelling fir trees, the cool shade, the deer and other wildlife, the silly raven and hooting owl, the red fox, the crunchy fir cones, the heady scented Clerodendrum trichotomum tree, the dogwoods and and and...oh I will miss this place...but I'm looking forward to my own home and garden again...maybe I'll plant a Clerodendrum trichotomum to remember along with the asparagus, morninga, gogi berry, lisbon lemon, key lime, curry tree, and many gold nugget mandarines I have in mind.
Doctor Ginger, Medicine Woman...WARNING...if you ever use oil of oregano, make sure it's a brand that is cut with olive oil or cut it yourself. I received quite a bad, blistering, bleeding burn on my face this week, because I forgot this crucial information.
Jesus Word..."A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another," John 13:34. I'm horrified by the war zone that broke this month out in a supposedly peaceful American neighborhood. I'm saddened that this isn't really a new thing. I'm broken hearted that people have lost civility and brotherly love to such an extent that nobody will listen to any opinion that doesn't match their own. We must open civil dialog first seeking to understand. Only when people feel heard will they listen. Racism exists in this country. While it is true that many don't hate others of diverse colors and religions, others do. It's not all light against dark either. I've heard horrible hate spewed by closed minded people of many persuasions. I never really believed that this problem really existed until I experienced it myself. Once a black neighbor, whom I provided free childcare and transportation, brought racism into the picture after two of our children got into a childish fight. My daughter said some terrible things which she had learned at school. He was convinced we taught her those things, refusing to open his eyes to the fact that I served his family daily out of neighborly love. As a minority in Hawaii, I was called names and treated poorly by many. I love Hawaii and the aloha culture but sadly minorities are treated with prejudice by many simple-minded people there. God created humans with variety just as he did animals and plants. Variety is interesting and brings beauty if we can appreciate it.
Bibliophilia...read a cookbook connected with a youtube channel, depression cooking. The book is Clara's Kitchen: Wisdom, Memories, and Recipes from the Great Depression by Clara Cannucciari. It's a very special view of that time period with a lot of great ideas for cooking nutritious plant-based food. Sure, there are a few recipes with animal foods, but these are easily skipped. All have too much oil which is easily omitted. Her wisdom resonates with me. "Where there is dirt there is food...we ate lots of pasta, potatoes, and bread with vegetables, which made us strong and healthy...I lived healthy and strong into my 90s eating this way." I've had lots of fun making some of her recipes and plan to make many more. My favorite so far is pasta with peas although I use frozen peas. I sent Cole Archimedes and the Door of Science, The Golden Goblet, and Life of Fred--Cats. To me education is next in importance to religion and family. I send great books and loving letters to the grandchildren to inspire their love of learning, love of God, and love of Grammy. lol
Cucinia Fresca...The other day I made lentil soup that didn't turn out like it usually does. However, it was much better than any lentil soup I've ever eaten. J gave it an 8, but I give it a 9. It would make a good taco filling but is delicious as a stew in a bowl.
New Lentil Stew
2/3 c brown basmati rice
1/4 c lentils
2 1/4 c water
2 T powdered dried veggie mix
1/4 c each dried spinach and cabbage (or 1/2 c each of fresh)
smoked paprika, dried mustard, chipotle, oregano
Bring to boil. Simmer an hour. Serve topped with hot sauce or red enchilada sauce (2-3 c boiling water to soak 3 dried anaheims and 2 dried anchos until soft. Put in blender with pinch chipotle powder and salt, dry sautéed onion and garlic, 2-3 tomatoes, 1-2 T tapioca starch. Strain and heat to desired consistency).
Visitors...we've had one after another visitors over the month, which to me is heaven. Our final visitor left Friday morning, so now is all quiet again...I like this, too. Mom, Arlen, Emily, Nathan, Sammy, Quinn, and Spencer gave us the clear message that we are wanted, needed, and loved. Family is the greatest blessing. Those that can't travel to visit call when they can, which also brings joy.
Nature News...I'll be sorry to leave the most beautiful, peaceful place on earth. The fog between the massive, sweet, smelling fir trees, the cool shade, the deer and other wildlife, the silly raven and hooting owl, the red fox, the crunchy fir cones, the heady scented Clerodendrum trichotomum tree, the dogwoods and and and...oh I will miss this place...but I'm looking forward to my own home and garden again...maybe I'll plant a Clerodendrum trichotomum to remember along with the asparagus, morninga, gogi berry, lisbon lemon, key lime, curry tree, and many gold nugget mandarines I have in mind.
Doctor Ginger, Medicine Woman...WARNING...if you ever use oil of oregano, make sure it's a brand that is cut with olive oil or cut it yourself. I received quite a bad, blistering, bleeding burn on my face this week, because I forgot this crucial information.
Sunday, July 13, 2014
blooming roses
Praying For...Quinn, our little comedian...that he will be happy, healthy, safe, and know Jesus. I know I always pray for these things, yet these are the most basic tools of a joyful life, the most important things...I also pray that he will not be touched by the evils of this world...that he will continue to heal with the choices his parents are making with his irritating but not life threatening health challenge...that the leaders of the world will soften their hearts to the plight of children and make children's issues of family, education, nutrition, and safety a priority in the communities of their nations, thus inviting their citizens to remain as nation builders.
Bibliophilia...bought Life of Fred--Butterflies (my absolute favorite math series which doesn't feel like math at all), Midnight on the Moon (Magic Tree House), Space (Magic Tree House Research Guide), and the next set of MCP Phonics Readers for Quinn. Education is next in importance to religion in my book. Both my husband and I are willing to sacrifice a little money and time here and there to demonstrate this principle to our grandchildren with the books and letters we send in conjunction with our grandchild of the week tradition. It also teaches them that they are important to us.
Mommy Moment...I miss being a mommy but am so glad I had that opportunity. My youngest son is visiting this week, which is always fun. We spent so much time together homeschooling that our bond runs very deeply. We banter and laugh a lot. We discuss important things a little, too.
Teaching...Because I missed homeschooling so much, I began mentoring and tutoring about seven years ago. For awhile I did this for money, but I don't like the expectations or attitudes of the parents with the exchange of money. They go from grateful to critical and demanding. I've watched youngsters who were seemingly dumb as a post discover intelligence and drive. A few made astonishing progress. My mentoring pool has dwindled because of graduation to adulthood; now I only have two such students. The oldest is brighter than the average youngster, she took my favored path in a way. Although she began high school at twelve as most youth are capable of doing, she didn't want to pursue college testing at that time. Upon completing high school studies at 15ish, she began Adler's Gateway the the Great Books, The Great Ideas Program (with great books), Asimov's Guide to Shakespeare (with Bowdler's Family Shakespeare), Harvard Shelf of Fiction, along with science, math, poetry, and writing. This year she'll finish this study and has asked to continue on with me as mentor to complete college testing. The other girl will finish high school in two years. I thought thought my mentoring days were coming to a close, but I'm live tutoring a few children and hope one may end up as a mentee. These new youth have given me a run for my money as many tried and true resources simply didn't get through to them. Finally, I found and re-discovered materials that worked, uncovering intelligent students once again. One exceptional find with my newest charges is Life of Fred math series from elementary arithmetic through college calculus. It's funny and so easy to understand. I also discovered somewhere along the way that teaching drawing along with the three Rs allows me to reach young people faster and on a different level. They learn that communication doesn't have to use words, which seems to loosen up some of their fear of failure. I love teaching, because it allows me to watch the blooming of human roses.
Pen and Brush...I began a new story, which I don't plan to ever publish. I write because my imagination keeps me awake at night. When I know I'll empty my brain every day, I don't have to keep all the details of my newest imaginings straight. In a way, I'm robbing the doctors once again. Another way I rob the doctor is drawing. How? It's as if I can pour my mind out a bit into my drawings. Of course, like my writing, my art is private and for my eyes only. Still, I enjoy this part of my life.
Sound of Music...ukulele is easy and fun...it takes little skill to play fairly well. I am a complete novice but have a gas playing and singing along to my various cds. I also found one with Hawaiian music, which I've loved since our residence on Oahu. It wasn't a conscious choice, but my violin is taking a back seat. I'll have to make a concerted effort to keep it going as well.
Bibliophilia...bought Life of Fred--Butterflies (my absolute favorite math series which doesn't feel like math at all), Midnight on the Moon (Magic Tree House), Space (Magic Tree House Research Guide), and the next set of MCP Phonics Readers for Quinn. Education is next in importance to religion in my book. Both my husband and I are willing to sacrifice a little money and time here and there to demonstrate this principle to our grandchildren with the books and letters we send in conjunction with our grandchild of the week tradition. It also teaches them that they are important to us.
Mommy Moment...I miss being a mommy but am so glad I had that opportunity. My youngest son is visiting this week, which is always fun. We spent so much time together homeschooling that our bond runs very deeply. We banter and laugh a lot. We discuss important things a little, too.
Teaching...Because I missed homeschooling so much, I began mentoring and tutoring about seven years ago. For awhile I did this for money, but I don't like the expectations or attitudes of the parents with the exchange of money. They go from grateful to critical and demanding. I've watched youngsters who were seemingly dumb as a post discover intelligence and drive. A few made astonishing progress. My mentoring pool has dwindled because of graduation to adulthood; now I only have two such students. The oldest is brighter than the average youngster, she took my favored path in a way. Although she began high school at twelve as most youth are capable of doing, she didn't want to pursue college testing at that time. Upon completing high school studies at 15ish, she began Adler's Gateway the the Great Books, The Great Ideas Program (with great books), Asimov's Guide to Shakespeare (with Bowdler's Family Shakespeare), Harvard Shelf of Fiction, along with science, math, poetry, and writing. This year she'll finish this study and has asked to continue on with me as mentor to complete college testing. The other girl will finish high school in two years. I thought thought my mentoring days were coming to a close, but I'm live tutoring a few children and hope one may end up as a mentee. These new youth have given me a run for my money as many tried and true resources simply didn't get through to them. Finally, I found and re-discovered materials that worked, uncovering intelligent students once again. One exceptional find with my newest charges is Life of Fred math series from elementary arithmetic through college calculus. It's funny and so easy to understand. I also discovered somewhere along the way that teaching drawing along with the three Rs allows me to reach young people faster and on a different level. They learn that communication doesn't have to use words, which seems to loosen up some of their fear of failure. I love teaching, because it allows me to watch the blooming of human roses.
Pen and Brush...I began a new story, which I don't plan to ever publish. I write because my imagination keeps me awake at night. When I know I'll empty my brain every day, I don't have to keep all the details of my newest imaginings straight. In a way, I'm robbing the doctors once again. Another way I rob the doctor is drawing. How? It's as if I can pour my mind out a bit into my drawings. Of course, like my writing, my art is private and for my eyes only. Still, I enjoy this part of my life.
Sound of Music...ukulele is easy and fun...it takes little skill to play fairly well. I am a complete novice but have a gas playing and singing along to my various cds. I also found one with Hawaiian music, which I've loved since our residence on Oahu. It wasn't a conscious choice, but my violin is taking a back seat. I'll have to make a concerted effort to keep it going as well.
Sunday, May 11, 2014
when you're smiling
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| Forget-Me-Nots for Mother's Day from Joseph and Gucci, my all-time favorite flower. |
Praying For...Oakley...I always have to resist calling her Annie...that she will be healthy, happy, safe, and faithful to the Savior, Jesus Christ. I pray that she will know mountains of joy and very little trial or misery. I pray that she will choose the plan of happiness, because living the commandments is true happiness. I pray that she and other girls in the world like those in Nigeria won't be targets of evil, blood-thirsty, power-seeking men hiding behind a false god. No true and loving god would require the innocence of children or the virtue of young girls in the cause of righteousness...no, never. God's Word..."And whosoever shall offend one of these little ones that believe in me, it is better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and he were cast into the sea." Mark 9:42 I'd say the young girls in Nigeria were highly offended, when these 'religious' militants made them pawns of war, kidnapping, raping, and selling them into slavery.
Quote of the Week...while I don't agree with most of her political ideas, I whole heartedly agree with Mrs. Obama's statement this week memorializing the plight of the abducted Nigerian Girls. "I hope that any young people in America who take school for granted, any young people who are slacking off or thinking of dropping out, I hope they will learn the story of these girls and recommit themselves to their education."
Cucina Fresca...bought Jeff Novick's new video, Fast Food Volume 4: Beyond the Basics. The previous volumes changed the way I look at food and cooking, which this one will likely expand. Monday night I plan to make Kasha Varnishkes, a traditional Eastern European Jewish dish made from whole grain toasted buckwheat, pasta, and a large amount of caramelized onions. Jeff's heart-healthy version leaves out the chicken fat and salt, adding vegetable broth, peas, carrots, and garlic. Caramelizing onions without fat works amazingly well; I do it all the time. More and more I fear eating in restaurants. Last night we went out for a Mother's Day dinner (we don't do restaurants on the Sabbath). They put soy sauce in something they gave me. First my stomach swelled, then my throat and neck, then my chest. It was so hard to breathe, and of course I couldn't eat anymore. We went home, where I experienced a very tough evening and night. Luckily, it didn't get worse, but it was my worst reaction to date.
Nature Notes...yesterday, we went for a walk on the beach. Because we are early birds, we had the beach to ourselves. Wonderful, warmish, sunny, calm, and clear, the beach invited us to walk for about an hour. Gucci ran and played so hard that she slept for a couple hours after we got home (after a bath to wash off the mud and sand). That little dog is a powerhouse and has no idea she is a tiny dog. I've heard Yorkies referred to as big dogs in little bodies, which describes her perfectly. That little 5 pound ball of energy makes us laugh and laugh. Also, the breeze didn't bother my ears. Last year the spring breezes caused so much pain. I guess I'm getting better and better.
Sound of Music...I'm so glad I healed up and can play my music again. There is no high like a morning devotional of praying, reading scripture, and playing sacred music. Then later in the day, I get out the ukulele to sing and play silly, fun, and more religious songs. I'll ever be grateful that my parents allowed me to play the violin and for Mrs. Jean Davis teaching me. Since then if an instrument interests me, it is so easy to play with my (limited) musical skills.
Pen and Brush...boy am I rusty, but I still enjoyed a week of getting back into the swing of this enjoyable pass time.
Teaching Little Children (and big ones)...as a mentor for young adults, I have the privilege and joy of designing curricula. At first, I tried to keep them all on the same track, but it didn't work. Some were more interested in one thing and others something else. Some were snails and some were rabbits. While they all my scholars have the same basics, they each have individualized programs. Some are gung-ho with the Great Books and others with college level testing. So this week I spent some time picking just the right thing for my remaining scholars. One girl, who has progressed beyond my dreams, asked if she could finish her Great Books study and begin college testing. Just two years ago she wanted nothing to do with testing, but now she sees the light. Anyway, it's great fun. Next year I'll be a better mentor, since I'll have all my books and not have my attention divided. I love to read everything each of them is assigned that week. It's getting harder and harder to keep that up now that I have so many reading different books. Also this week, I began working with two new tutoring students. They are a 12 and 13 brother and sister pair, who ought to make quick progress.
Movement...enjoying my rolling/stretching/yoga/ballet. Recently, I added dumbbells, because the arm exercises were getting too easy. I guess I'm getting stronger. Plus, Gucci isn't happy on nice days unless we take her out. Since there are so many nice spots in the days now, we go out three or four times. While she runs, we walk. She's so cute, always coming back to check on us.
Grammy Ginger, Medicine Woman...I'm not a doctor but an herbalist, interested in the historical uses of plants that support healing. My little grandson suffers from eczema. Recently, it was so bad his ankles ran with puss and blood. Since the only thing medical doctors can offer eventually makes the problem worse, I prayed and pondered all I had learned from Dr. Christopher's lectures and books. Chickweed is specific for eczema, causing the itching to stop and allowing skin lesions to heal. With a salve of chickweed, olive oil, bee's wax, that little one's legs were thickly coated twice a day before long cotton socks and cotton pants were put on to protect the skin. Within five days all lesions were closed and healing well on its way with NO ITCHING!
Monday, December 16, 2013
achieving cake-ness
Praying For...all my children and grandchildren through this blessed season of Jesus Christ's birth...and for families everywhere that they will find the gospel and find the true joy it offers...and for leaders of nations that they will cease to follow the father of all lies and soften their hearts toward the Savior of All Men.
Jesus Word..."For I have given you an example, that ye should do as I have done to you," John 13:15. Everyone on Earth seems confused and spend their energy in pursuit of happiness. Unfortunately, many don't know where to look. Jesus told us were to find and how to achieve happiness in the Scriptures.
Bibliophilia...I have to say my favorite store of all time is Amazon. Back in the day, Christmas shopping took days with exposure to all manner of germs and obnoxious holiday anti-cheer. With amazon, I can browse a bit, purchase all my gifts, and enjoy the reason for the season without subjecting myself to germs, rude people, running all over town, inconvenient hours, or dangerous mall shootings. I shopped on Friday at 3:30 AM. I couldn't sleep so why not! Some of my gifts arrived by the next day. Last month I sent Oakley a beginner origami book. Continuing on that theme, we sent her Snowflakes for all Seasons, some small fiskar scissors, and Plastic Origami Paper Box Case Plus 180 Sheets Origami Paper. On another note, I read Inside the Secret Garden: A Treasury of Crafts, Recipes, and Activities Hardcover by Carolyn Strom Collins. In the fourth grade, my teacher read aloud the Secret Garden. All these years later, it remains one of my favorite books. This Treasury added to my love of the book.
Cucina Fresca...I achieved cake-ness. Making vegan, gluten-free, soy-free, nut-free, and oil-free cake is a snap. Basically, combine garbanzo flour, sorghum flour, brown rice flour with a bit of potato or tapioca starch to equal 2 c. Stir in energy egg replacer or flax meal plus spices, baking soda, dried fruits, citrus zest, and a bit of salt. In another bowl, combine mashed bananas or apple sauce, honey (or maple syrup or molasses or pureed dried fruit), vanilla, vinegar, and some water to make about 1 1/2 c. Stir gently to combine as with muffins. It should be quite thick. Chop or slice fruit (apples, pears, pineapple, raspberries, etc), mixing with more sweet spices and arranging on the bottom of a parchment lined 7-8 inch tart or quiche pan. Spread batter over fruit. Bake at 350F for 30-35 minutes. Cool for 5 minutes. Turn out onto cake platter. Although this is still junk food, it is quite removed from cholesterol laden, nutrient stripped cakes of my past. Plus, it's quite delicious and satisfies my pastry cravings.
Sound of Music...Although my success would have been greater with pain-free, young hands, I'm having a blast learning the harmony method on the piano with Piano For Life and Let's Improvise Christmas (Ralph Hedges). Making music instead of playing notes is the philosophy behind these methods. Even so, I still like to memorize pieces. My memory piece for December/January is He Sent His Son. On the violin, it will be easy as will singing the English version. Piano and singing Spanish will be the challenges here.
Teaching Little Children..."It is not by the whip or the rod that we can make obedient children; but it is by faith and by prayer, and by setting a good example before them," Brigham Young, Deseret News Weekly, 9 Aug. 1865, 3. Oh, how I wish I had understood this principle at the beginning of my childrearing days, although I am grateful to have finally learned it with my younger ones. When teaching my sweet Primary class, I bring this principle with me. I've witnessed miracles with two little children. In the beginning, they were angry and sought negative reinforcement for poor behaviors. With gentleness and a lot of long-suffering, they have learned to keep their hands to themselves, to speak in turn, and to respect others around them. No, I don't think I created any magic. Following true principles of charity has made the change. The world is wrong when they say children don't come with instruction manuals. The scriptures and the words of modern prophets will help us know the right way to help them become civilized, charitable Christian children and future citizens of society.
Herbal Apothecary...Because I'm trying to heal my injuries and lift my spirits, I'm making and drinking lots more carrot and green juices again. As always, I'm amazed at the healing properties of plants.
Jesus Word..."For I have given you an example, that ye should do as I have done to you," John 13:15. Everyone on Earth seems confused and spend their energy in pursuit of happiness. Unfortunately, many don't know where to look. Jesus told us were to find and how to achieve happiness in the Scriptures.
Bibliophilia...I have to say my favorite store of all time is Amazon. Back in the day, Christmas shopping took days with exposure to all manner of germs and obnoxious holiday anti-cheer. With amazon, I can browse a bit, purchase all my gifts, and enjoy the reason for the season without subjecting myself to germs, rude people, running all over town, inconvenient hours, or dangerous mall shootings. I shopped on Friday at 3:30 AM. I couldn't sleep so why not! Some of my gifts arrived by the next day. Last month I sent Oakley a beginner origami book. Continuing on that theme, we sent her Snowflakes for all Seasons, some small fiskar scissors, and Plastic Origami Paper Box Case Plus 180 Sheets Origami Paper. On another note, I read Inside the Secret Garden: A Treasury of Crafts, Recipes, and Activities Hardcover by Carolyn Strom Collins. In the fourth grade, my teacher read aloud the Secret Garden. All these years later, it remains one of my favorite books. This Treasury added to my love of the book.
Cucina Fresca...I achieved cake-ness. Making vegan, gluten-free, soy-free, nut-free, and oil-free cake is a snap. Basically, combine garbanzo flour, sorghum flour, brown rice flour with a bit of potato or tapioca starch to equal 2 c. Stir in energy egg replacer or flax meal plus spices, baking soda, dried fruits, citrus zest, and a bit of salt. In another bowl, combine mashed bananas or apple sauce, honey (or maple syrup or molasses or pureed dried fruit), vanilla, vinegar, and some water to make about 1 1/2 c. Stir gently to combine as with muffins. It should be quite thick. Chop or slice fruit (apples, pears, pineapple, raspberries, etc), mixing with more sweet spices and arranging on the bottom of a parchment lined 7-8 inch tart or quiche pan. Spread batter over fruit. Bake at 350F for 30-35 minutes. Cool for 5 minutes. Turn out onto cake platter. Although this is still junk food, it is quite removed from cholesterol laden, nutrient stripped cakes of my past. Plus, it's quite delicious and satisfies my pastry cravings.
Sound of Music...Although my success would have been greater with pain-free, young hands, I'm having a blast learning the harmony method on the piano with Piano For Life and Let's Improvise Christmas (Ralph Hedges). Making music instead of playing notes is the philosophy behind these methods. Even so, I still like to memorize pieces. My memory piece for December/January is He Sent His Son. On the violin, it will be easy as will singing the English version. Piano and singing Spanish will be the challenges here.
Teaching Little Children..."It is not by the whip or the rod that we can make obedient children; but it is by faith and by prayer, and by setting a good example before them," Brigham Young, Deseret News Weekly, 9 Aug. 1865, 3. Oh, how I wish I had understood this principle at the beginning of my childrearing days, although I am grateful to have finally learned it with my younger ones. When teaching my sweet Primary class, I bring this principle with me. I've witnessed miracles with two little children. In the beginning, they were angry and sought negative reinforcement for poor behaviors. With gentleness and a lot of long-suffering, they have learned to keep their hands to themselves, to speak in turn, and to respect others around them. No, I don't think I created any magic. Following true principles of charity has made the change. The world is wrong when they say children don't come with instruction manuals. The scriptures and the words of modern prophets will help us know the right way to help them become civilized, charitable Christian children and future citizens of society.
Herbal Apothecary...Because I'm trying to heal my injuries and lift my spirits, I'm making and drinking lots more carrot and green juices again. As always, I'm amazed at the healing properties of plants.
Monday, August 19, 2013
Sunday, May 12, 2013
and on and on again
Praying For...Quinn, our clever court jester. May he choose the way home to God. I also pray the same for other little boys to recognized Jesus and choose His easy and light way. Praying that the leaders of our nation and the world will walk in Jesus' way and exercise public/private virtue.
Meditations on Jesus' Word..."Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light." Matthew 11:28-30 After some experimenting, I've come to know the truthfulness of this promise. In this world, His ways seem odd and hard but are ever so much easier than sin.
Bibliophilia...I sent Quinn Three Tales of My Father's Dragon, My Father's Dragon trilogy put into one book, along with a Kumon and an Explode the Code book. My boys absolutely loved these books between the ages of 4 and 8. I also sent Right Start Corners to both siblings in that house. Personally, I read Wild About Greens by Nava Atlas and can't wait to try out some of her recipes.
Cucina Fresca...Lately, with my heavy work schedule, I have new goals: quick, no-added-fat, plant-only, pantry meals. This would qualify, if I left out the fresh veg, which would be fine because of the dehydrated veg. Thankfully, I didn't need to do that. I've tried to make quinoa tacos before, but somehow they just weren't that great. After reading how to make taco shells at Engine 2, I gave it another try. It was given a 9, which is pretty high in the ratings and makes it a repeater. Quinoa is not expensive in the big Costco bags.
20 Minute Quinoa Tacos for Two
1/4 c. quinoa
1/2 c. water
pinch smoked paprika
pinch paprika
1/2 t. ancho chili
pinch dehydrated mixed hot chilies
1/2 t. onion powder
1/4 t. garlic powder
1 T. dehydrated veggie powder
2 T. dehydrated spinach
1 red or yellow bell pepper, sliced
1 Anaheim pepper, sliced
20 cherry tomatoes, halved
handful cilantro, minced
1 handful baby lettuce mix, minced
1 handful finely sliced purple cabbage (fermented is yummy here)
1/2 c. salsa
6 corn tortillas
Preheat oven to 350F. While waiting for water to boil, put spices in water. Add quinoa to boiling water turn down heat to low, cover, and put a timer on for 10-15 min. After oven is heated, drape corn tortillas over two bars of the metal baking rack; bake at 400F for 6-8 minutes. Over medium high heat, dry saute bell and Anaheim pepper strips until small brown spots appear on skin. Meanwhile, prep tomatoes, cilantro, lettuce, and cabbage. Every thing should be ready at this point. Assemble tacos. Eat with quick chopped seasonal fruit salad.
Duds...Last week one of the leaders of the youth that visited here commented on my skirts. She said, I could never serve a mission, because you have to wear skirts all the time. I told her I'd been wearing only skirts for years and why. She seemed fascinated with the idea. My weirdness with skirts has drawn a lot of attention on this weird island. Many women have commented how cute my usual farm combo looks: denim skirt, blouse, sweater, denim jacket, tights, and lacer boots. I don't have any trouble working dressed this way just as women for all time before the 1920s didn't.
Sound of Music...We found a place on the property with awesome acoustics. It's an old training corral with solid sides. Because nobody can hear me except God, I stand on a mound in the middle playing and singing hymns to my heart's content. This week the corral was full of forget-me-nots. Hi Katie!
Garden Gate...learned how to graft apple trees. It was so excitingly fun. We are reclaiming a several acre section of land that hasn't been mowed for a couple years. Not only do we contend with thick grass but small shrubs such as Scottish broom and ferns.
Pen and Brush...God is blessing my service by improving my energy levels. Even after 60-70 hour weeks, I still have time and energy to paint. However, since my mac doesn't work, I cannot put them in this journal. I painted in my journal nearly every day and made three cards.
And Finally...
Meditations on Jesus' Word..."Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light." Matthew 11:28-30 After some experimenting, I've come to know the truthfulness of this promise. In this world, His ways seem odd and hard but are ever so much easier than sin.
Bibliophilia...I sent Quinn Three Tales of My Father's Dragon, My Father's Dragon trilogy put into one book, along with a Kumon and an Explode the Code book. My boys absolutely loved these books between the ages of 4 and 8. I also sent Right Start Corners to both siblings in that house. Personally, I read Wild About Greens by Nava Atlas and can't wait to try out some of her recipes.
Cucina Fresca...Lately, with my heavy work schedule, I have new goals: quick, no-added-fat, plant-only, pantry meals. This would qualify, if I left out the fresh veg, which would be fine because of the dehydrated veg. Thankfully, I didn't need to do that. I've tried to make quinoa tacos before, but somehow they just weren't that great. After reading how to make taco shells at Engine 2, I gave it another try. It was given a 9, which is pretty high in the ratings and makes it a repeater. Quinoa is not expensive in the big Costco bags.
20 Minute Quinoa Tacos for Two
1/4 c. quinoa
1/2 c. water
pinch smoked paprika
pinch paprika
1/2 t. ancho chili
pinch dehydrated mixed hot chilies
1/2 t. onion powder
1/4 t. garlic powder
1 T. dehydrated veggie powder
2 T. dehydrated spinach
1 red or yellow bell pepper, sliced
1 Anaheim pepper, sliced
20 cherry tomatoes, halved
handful cilantro, minced
1 handful baby lettuce mix, minced
1 handful finely sliced purple cabbage (fermented is yummy here)
1/2 c. salsa
6 corn tortillas
Preheat oven to 350F. While waiting for water to boil, put spices in water. Add quinoa to boiling water turn down heat to low, cover, and put a timer on for 10-15 min. After oven is heated, drape corn tortillas over two bars of the metal baking rack; bake at 400F for 6-8 minutes. Over medium high heat, dry saute bell and Anaheim pepper strips until small brown spots appear on skin. Meanwhile, prep tomatoes, cilantro, lettuce, and cabbage. Every thing should be ready at this point. Assemble tacos. Eat with quick chopped seasonal fruit salad.
Duds...Last week one of the leaders of the youth that visited here commented on my skirts. She said, I could never serve a mission, because you have to wear skirts all the time. I told her I'd been wearing only skirts for years and why. She seemed fascinated with the idea. My weirdness with skirts has drawn a lot of attention on this weird island. Many women have commented how cute my usual farm combo looks: denim skirt, blouse, sweater, denim jacket, tights, and lacer boots. I don't have any trouble working dressed this way just as women for all time before the 1920s didn't.
Sound of Music...We found a place on the property with awesome acoustics. It's an old training corral with solid sides. Because nobody can hear me except God, I stand on a mound in the middle playing and singing hymns to my heart's content. This week the corral was full of forget-me-nots. Hi Katie!
Garden Gate...learned how to graft apple trees. It was so excitingly fun. We are reclaiming a several acre section of land that hasn't been mowed for a couple years. Not only do we contend with thick grass but small shrubs such as Scottish broom and ferns.
Pen and Brush...God is blessing my service by improving my energy levels. Even after 60-70 hour weeks, I still have time and energy to paint. However, since my mac doesn't work, I cannot put them in this journal. I painted in my journal nearly every day and made three cards.
And Finally...
Saturday, May 4, 2013
vision and power of doctrine
One of the prime reasons for earth life is to adopt the character of Jesus Christ, who spent His time serving and helping others. "By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another" (John 13:35). I don't want to get to that judgement day and have Him say "I never knew you: depart from me." (Matthew 7:23)
This is the lesson we hope to teach those that come to the farm. The young people seem to get it immediately. We hear comments. I love this. I didn't know getting my hands dirty would be so fun. This feels like the temple grounds.
Inevitably, a thirty something leader will indicate we need more tools and more direction. It is then time to teach the adult. Our service projects aren't about efficiency. When we pay someone to do a job, we want them to do as much work in as short a time as possible. Here we want the young person standing around with a shovel or rake to see a need and get themselves anxiously engaged in fulfilling it, (Doctrine and Covenants 58:27). If we always direct, command in all things, and micro manage young people they never learn to see; they will never grow into adults who see and do and lead, (1 Nephi 3:7). Additionally, we are attempting to provide opportunities for them to learn to love work, care for God's camp, and find joy in doing something productive with other young people. Efficient, driving work isn't the goal.
By the end of the project our volunteers, both youth and leader, often don't want to quit. They catch the vision and feel the power of the doctrine.
This is the lesson we hope to teach those that come to the farm. The young people seem to get it immediately. We hear comments. I love this. I didn't know getting my hands dirty would be so fun. This feels like the temple grounds.
Inevitably, a thirty something leader will indicate we need more tools and more direction. It is then time to teach the adult. Our service projects aren't about efficiency. When we pay someone to do a job, we want them to do as much work in as short a time as possible. Here we want the young person standing around with a shovel or rake to see a need and get themselves anxiously engaged in fulfilling it, (Doctrine and Covenants 58:27). If we always direct, command in all things, and micro manage young people they never learn to see; they will never grow into adults who see and do and lead, (1 Nephi 3:7). Additionally, we are attempting to provide opportunities for them to learn to love work, care for God's camp, and find joy in doing something productive with other young people. Efficient, driving work isn't the goal.
By the end of the project our volunteers, both youth and leader, often don't want to quit. They catch the vision and feel the power of the doctrine.
Saturday, April 20, 2013
my light and my life
Praying For...Sweet Samantha, who is a special light in my life...that she is challenged enough in her education to inspire a love of learning. Right now she enjoys reading, art, and Mandarin...I pray for the same for other little girl's around the world...let them all have the opportunity to build their minds (and spirits) and find joy doing so.
Meditation on Jesus' Word..."And now, my sons, remember, remember that it is upon the rock of our Redeemer, who is Christ, the Son of God, that ye must build your foundation; that when the devil shall send forth his mighty winds, yea, his shafts in the whirlwind, yea, when all his hail and his mighty storm shall beat upon you, it shall have no power over you to drag you down to the gulf of misery and endless wo, because of the rock upon which ye are built, which is a sure foundation, a foundation whereon if men build they cannot fall." Helaman 5:12 Satan cannot hurt me if my life is built upon Jesus. In fact he can have NO POWER over me if Jesus is my light and my life.
Bibliophilia...Because she is grandchild of the week, we sent Sammy-girl a copy of The Christian Nature Reader, which all young children enjoy reading. We also sent Draw Squad, which her mother loved as a little girl.
Genealogy...It's been some time since I worked on my family history. I have to say the changes over at Family Search are wonderful. It is so easy to navigate as well as beautiful to look at. Looking forward to adding photos and other documents to the site. So much fun with very little frustration.
Cucina Fresca...On days when we have service projects going on, there is precious little time to eat much less prepare food. Today, I tried out something new, which is also a semi-food storage meal. It was yummy....
Quinoa Pilaf
1 c. quinoa
2 c. water
1/4 c. dehydrated mixed vegetables
1/4 c. dehydrated cabbage
2 T. dehydrated spinach
2 T. dehydrated shitake mushrooms
1/4 t. garlic powder
1/4 t. onion powder
a couple twists of black pepper
1/4 t. thyme
1 c. chopped asparagus or peppers or rabe or sturdy greens or mung bean sprouts (optional)
While bringing the water to a boil, add all seasonings. As soon as the water boils, add quinoa. Top with chopped veg. Turn off heat, leaving it on the burner, cover, and let it sit for 1-2 hours. It will keep warmish until you are ready to eat. Cabbage salad and sliced apples make this a peasant king meal.
Garden Gate...We spent the last few days in Sequim, Washington learning water/fertilizer free techniques for pruning and mulching an orchard/garden from Paul Gautschi. It was wonderful the way he connected his discoveries/revelations to scripture and the nature of God. We slept at the ever hospitable George Washington Inn, which is across Puget Sound from Victoria Canada. The view was spectacular. The vacation was lovely until Paul got some horrible news. We thought and prayed about the new Boston massacre and Paul's tragedy, then tried even harder to just move on. The insanity of the world must not make us insane or fearful or cynical or distrustful. With a youth group at the farm Saturday, we scraped fencing for painting, removed blackberry brambles, seeded flower beds, hauled compost, and planted spring annuals. The young people were so willing and eager to help. I even overheard one young man say he was happy we gave them real work instead of some made up task. The young people helped me dream optimistically about loveliness in the future. Life is good. It's a wonderful world. It’s how we choose to respond to tragedy and such that makes us bitter or not.
Dr. Ginger Medicine Woman...I'm neither a doctor, nor a medicine woman. However, I study a lot about nutrition and alternative healing. Looking forward to the release of Dr. Colin Campbell's new book, Whole. His first book, The China Study, helped put me on the road to healing about 4 years ago. I'm so happy I learned his message: good nutrition deals with the root causes of disease. Sure herbs and essential oils are great at relieving disease symptoms. They even help get to the root of the problem. But if the diet is non-nutritive and dirty, no essential oil, herb, vitamin, alternative treatment, exercise program, or allopathic disease care will do more than provide a band aide. "Perhaps it's time we stopped declaring war on ourselves through toxic drugs and dangerous surgeries, and instead treat ourselves with kindness by feeding ourselves the sorts of foods shown to grow and sustain healthy, vibrant people and cultures." Colin Campbell
Pen and Brush...I got some new watercolor brushes and paper this week. After trying all sorts of finishes, I decided I like Arches hot press paper and sable brushes best. The difference between using substandard supplies and the newer nicer ones is night and day. I can't say I'm all that much better because of the change, but it's much more enjoyable.
Meditation on Jesus' Word..."And now, my sons, remember, remember that it is upon the rock of our Redeemer, who is Christ, the Son of God, that ye must build your foundation; that when the devil shall send forth his mighty winds, yea, his shafts in the whirlwind, yea, when all his hail and his mighty storm shall beat upon you, it shall have no power over you to drag you down to the gulf of misery and endless wo, because of the rock upon which ye are built, which is a sure foundation, a foundation whereon if men build they cannot fall." Helaman 5:12 Satan cannot hurt me if my life is built upon Jesus. In fact he can have NO POWER over me if Jesus is my light and my life.
Bibliophilia...Because she is grandchild of the week, we sent Sammy-girl a copy of The Christian Nature Reader, which all young children enjoy reading. We also sent Draw Squad, which her mother loved as a little girl.
Genealogy...It's been some time since I worked on my family history. I have to say the changes over at Family Search are wonderful. It is so easy to navigate as well as beautiful to look at. Looking forward to adding photos and other documents to the site. So much fun with very little frustration.
Cucina Fresca...On days when we have service projects going on, there is precious little time to eat much less prepare food. Today, I tried out something new, which is also a semi-food storage meal. It was yummy....
Quinoa Pilaf
1 c. quinoa
2 c. water
1/4 c. dehydrated mixed vegetables
1/4 c. dehydrated cabbage
2 T. dehydrated spinach
2 T. dehydrated shitake mushrooms
1/4 t. garlic powder
1/4 t. onion powder
a couple twists of black pepper
1/4 t. thyme
1 c. chopped asparagus or peppers or rabe or sturdy greens or mung bean sprouts (optional)
While bringing the water to a boil, add all seasonings. As soon as the water boils, add quinoa. Top with chopped veg. Turn off heat, leaving it on the burner, cover, and let it sit for 1-2 hours. It will keep warmish until you are ready to eat. Cabbage salad and sliced apples make this a peasant king meal.
Garden Gate...We spent the last few days in Sequim, Washington learning water/fertilizer free techniques for pruning and mulching an orchard/garden from Paul Gautschi. It was wonderful the way he connected his discoveries/revelations to scripture and the nature of God. We slept at the ever hospitable George Washington Inn, which is across Puget Sound from Victoria Canada. The view was spectacular. The vacation was lovely until Paul got some horrible news. We thought and prayed about the new Boston massacre and Paul's tragedy, then tried even harder to just move on. The insanity of the world must not make us insane or fearful or cynical or distrustful. With a youth group at the farm Saturday, we scraped fencing for painting, removed blackberry brambles, seeded flower beds, hauled compost, and planted spring annuals. The young people were so willing and eager to help. I even overheard one young man say he was happy we gave them real work instead of some made up task. The young people helped me dream optimistically about loveliness in the future. Life is good. It's a wonderful world. It’s how we choose to respond to tragedy and such that makes us bitter or not.
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| Beautiful George Washington Inn in Sequim Washington, a replica of Mt. Vernon |
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| In the rain at Paul Gauschi's farm |
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| Young women planting flowers at the conclusion of our service project. |
Dr. Ginger Medicine Woman...I'm neither a doctor, nor a medicine woman. However, I study a lot about nutrition and alternative healing. Looking forward to the release of Dr. Colin Campbell's new book, Whole. His first book, The China Study, helped put me on the road to healing about 4 years ago. I'm so happy I learned his message: good nutrition deals with the root causes of disease. Sure herbs and essential oils are great at relieving disease symptoms. They even help get to the root of the problem. But if the diet is non-nutritive and dirty, no essential oil, herb, vitamin, alternative treatment, exercise program, or allopathic disease care will do more than provide a band aide. "Perhaps it's time we stopped declaring war on ourselves through toxic drugs and dangerous surgeries, and instead treat ourselves with kindness by feeding ourselves the sorts of foods shown to grow and sustain healthy, vibrant people and cultures." Colin Campbell
Pen and Brush...I got some new watercolor brushes and paper this week. After trying all sorts of finishes, I decided I like Arches hot press paper and sable brushes best. The difference between using substandard supplies and the newer nicer ones is night and day. I can't say I'm all that much better because of the change, but it's much more enjoyable.
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| a card for Gayle |
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| painting a card for Samantha at George Washington Inn |
Sunday, April 14, 2013
promises
Praying For...Miss Gayle our dancing queen's health, happiness, and sweet spirit...also praying that other children around the world can know a measure of happiness similar to hers. Pleading that more little girls have innocent, happy, plentiful, love-filled, magical childhoods.
Meditations on Jesus' Word...“The work of righteousness shall be peace; and the effect of righteousness quietness and assurance for ever,” Isaiah 32:17. I staking my life on this promise.
Grateful...doing a little rewiring.
Cucina Fresca...It is important to store food, because nobody knows the future. What stores well? Dried beans and grains, dehydrated, fermented, and canned veg, roots such as onions, carrots and sweet potatoes plus cabbage, apples, dried fruits, herbs and spices. Lately, I've been working on developing more happy heart, herbivore, food storage friendly dishes. My newest is:
Savory Mushroom Stew for 2 or 3
1 c. dried baby lima beans, soaked 12-24 hours and thoroughly rinsed
1 large onion, pureed or sliced
1 T. powdered dehydrated veg broth
2 T. dehydrated spinach
2 T. dehydrated cabbage
2 T. dehydrated shitake mushrooms or more if you miss meatiness
1/4 t. thyme
1 bay leaf
dash red pepper flakes or cayenne
salt and black pepper
1/2 c purple cabbage, finely shredded
Slow cook limas in 3-4 c. distilled water until tender (time varies). Meanwhile, put onion and salt in a covered stainless steel pot with a bit of water over lowest heat. Allow to soften and brown, which will take 30-60 min. Add beans and all other ingredients. Continue cooking over low heat for about 30 min. Serve with finely-shredded, steamed purple cabbage on top and carrot/apple/ginger juice on the side. This was rated 10 by my man. It's that good.
Duds...My it's been a cold, rainy week. I'll have to say that this sort of weather in the deep, dark forest isn't as fun as it is near the water. Sigh...But...I have the right duds to keep me warm, dry, and femininely modest. It took me 30 years away from AZ to discover the benefits of wearing boots. I can't extol their benefits enough. I love the fact that my newest addition is not only warm but cute with skirts and waterproof. I don't intend to spend another winter without warm, dry boots as long as I'm away from AZ.
Bibliophilia...bought Hillyer's Child's History of the World for Cole, Bob Books for Gracie, and Grammarland for Gayle. We loved these at our house and hope this generation does, too. Also, finally read Power Food for the Brain by Neal Barnard. While most of the information on nutrition and movement was a repeat for me, I learned some interesting things about metals and brain health. It's definitely a good read for anyone who doesn't want to go down the road to dementia.
Dr. Ginger, Medicine Woman...of course I'm neither a doctor nor a medicine woman. I'm merely a woman who studies nutrition and such deeply. Found this lecture quite interesting and informative.
Nature Walk...while near the ferry doc, I saw 2 harbor seals playing in the water. I plan to use this video as a drawing tutorial for my journal and a card for Gayle.
Serendipity and Joy...Wednesday we took the ferry over to get the tractor tire fixed and have lunch out. After we crossed, we discovered neither of us brought money and the next ferry back over was two hours away. The tire fix was gratis. But what about lunch. We stopped at a little local market with our $1.80 in change hoping to buy a couple apples. Instead we found a luscious, late season mandarin that we hope to graft onto our yucky, seedy tangerine tree in AZ.
Pen and Brush...drew this whale this week. So very glad I took up this form of expression. It's not that I'm especially good at it, but that it makes me glad. I so need a little Pollyanna in my life.
Meditations on Jesus' Word...“The work of righteousness shall be peace; and the effect of righteousness quietness and assurance for ever,” Isaiah 32:17. I staking my life on this promise.
Grateful...doing a little rewiring.
Cucina Fresca...It is important to store food, because nobody knows the future. What stores well? Dried beans and grains, dehydrated, fermented, and canned veg, roots such as onions, carrots and sweet potatoes plus cabbage, apples, dried fruits, herbs and spices. Lately, I've been working on developing more happy heart, herbivore, food storage friendly dishes. My newest is:
Savory Mushroom Stew for 2 or 3
1 c. dried baby lima beans, soaked 12-24 hours and thoroughly rinsed
1 large onion, pureed or sliced
1 T. powdered dehydrated veg broth
2 T. dehydrated spinach
2 T. dehydrated cabbage
2 T. dehydrated shitake mushrooms or more if you miss meatiness
1/4 t. thyme
1 bay leaf
dash red pepper flakes or cayenne
salt and black pepper
1/2 c purple cabbage, finely shredded
Slow cook limas in 3-4 c. distilled water until tender (time varies). Meanwhile, put onion and salt in a covered stainless steel pot with a bit of water over lowest heat. Allow to soften and brown, which will take 30-60 min. Add beans and all other ingredients. Continue cooking over low heat for about 30 min. Serve with finely-shredded, steamed purple cabbage on top and carrot/apple/ginger juice on the side. This was rated 10 by my man. It's that good.
Duds...My it's been a cold, rainy week. I'll have to say that this sort of weather in the deep, dark forest isn't as fun as it is near the water. Sigh...But...I have the right duds to keep me warm, dry, and femininely modest. It took me 30 years away from AZ to discover the benefits of wearing boots. I can't extol their benefits enough. I love the fact that my newest addition is not only warm but cute with skirts and waterproof. I don't intend to spend another winter without warm, dry boots as long as I'm away from AZ.
Bibliophilia...bought Hillyer's Child's History of the World for Cole, Bob Books for Gracie, and Grammarland for Gayle. We loved these at our house and hope this generation does, too. Also, finally read Power Food for the Brain by Neal Barnard. While most of the information on nutrition and movement was a repeat for me, I learned some interesting things about metals and brain health. It's definitely a good read for anyone who doesn't want to go down the road to dementia.
Dr. Ginger, Medicine Woman...of course I'm neither a doctor nor a medicine woman. I'm merely a woman who studies nutrition and such deeply. Found this lecture quite interesting and informative.
Nature Walk...while near the ferry doc, I saw 2 harbor seals playing in the water. I plan to use this video as a drawing tutorial for my journal and a card for Gayle.
Serendipity and Joy...Wednesday we took the ferry over to get the tractor tire fixed and have lunch out. After we crossed, we discovered neither of us brought money and the next ferry back over was two hours away. The tire fix was gratis. But what about lunch. We stopped at a little local market with our $1.80 in change hoping to buy a couple apples. Instead we found a luscious, late season mandarin that we hope to graft onto our yucky, seedy tangerine tree in AZ.
Pen and Brush...drew this whale this week. So very glad I took up this form of expression. It's not that I'm especially good at it, but that it makes me glad. I so need a little Pollyanna in my life.
Sunday, March 24, 2013
perfectly joyful
Praying For...Samantha, our 6-year-old, Mandarine-speaking cutey...AND...Oakley, the brightly smiling girl, who turned 6 on Friday...These two cousins are as unalike as two girls could be, but have a great time playing together. Pleading for blessings of happiness, kindheartedness, health, and safety for these two. Also, praying for other little girls around the world to be cherished as these two are.
Meditations on Jesus' Word..."Look unto God with firmness of mind, and pray unto him with exceeding faith, and he will console you in your afflictions, and he will plead your cause," Jacob 3:1. Jesus knows me and wants so much to bring joy to my time here on earth. To receive this blessing, I must ask.
Dr. Ginger, Medicine Woman...reread this article from Jeff Novik on Super Foods. I like his attitude. Not overeating while choosing a variety of fruits, vegetables, legumes, and grains, offers one the best chance for attaining and maintaining good health.
Cucina Fresca...discovered the PERFECT mix of veg toppings for my favorite polenta pizza and am working on a millet/flax crust as well. Even my wanna-be carnivore husband couldn't get enough of my now...
Perfect Polenta Pizza
1 c. coarsely ground polenta
pinch calcium hydroxide (pickling lime)
4 c. water
1-2 red onions, minced or pureed
a handful mushrooms of any variety, sliced
1/2 red bell pepper, sliced
2-4 large cloves garlic, in the skin
a handful of baby kale, minced
3-4 basil leaves, minced
1-2 roma tomatoes sliced
pinch dried Italian herb blend
pinch red pepper flakes
twist or two of black pepper
8-12 hours before you plan to eat, soak polenta in water with calcium hydroxide. Prepare vegetables. Over lowest heat, sweat onions in a bit of water; continue cooking until they are caramelized and golden but don't let stick to pan. Meanwhile roast garlic, peppers, and mushrooms at 400F for 20 min or until softened and beginning to brown. While the onions are caramelizing and the other veggies are roasting. Pour polenta and water into a deep pot. Bring to a boil and lower heat, stirring constantly. Wear an oven mitt and partially cover pot to keep polenta from burning you as it pops. Shortly, it will pull away from the side of the pan. Pour polenta on a parchment lined pizza baking sheet and spread about 1/4 inch thick. Let it cool and set up for a few minutes. Pop garlic out of paper skins. Top polenta with onions, sliced roasted garlic, roasted veg, kale, basil, sliced tomatoes, herbs, pepper flakes, and black pepper. Return to hot oven and bake for 10 minutes. Eat with a huge green salad. Wow!
Duds...After living in Walmart-ville for so long, I go used to shopping there and found a couple things I really like. White Stag women's t-shirts are my favorite or were. They were perfect with a not-to-low neckline, a long, feminine cut, nice sturdy fabric, and less than $10. With the changing season, I need a couple new t-shirts and went to Walmart yesterday. Sadly, they changed the fabric and style...sigh...now I have to find a new favorite. I'm not a shopper so this is quite a hardship.
Bibliophilia...King County Washington has probably the best library in the entire US. For sure it hold the honor of the highest level of circulation in the country. Although I like having my own books, it isn't practical to travel with cases of books. I know, because I tried it for some time. So....I am enjoying the library here very much.
Nature Walk...enjoying the signs of spring and this ocean view
Pen and Brush...I simply love to make and send watercolor cards. And some have responded that they like receiving them.
Thought Provoking Quote..."We have launched a cleanup campaign. We are a throw-away people. Trash piles grow faster than population by far. Now we ask you to clean up your homes and your farms. “Man is the keeper of the land, and not its possessor.” Broken fences should be mended or removed. Unused barns should be repaired, roofed, painted, or removed. Sheds and corrals should be repaired and painted, or removed. Weedy ditch banks should be cleared. Abandoned homes could probably be razed. We look forward to the day when, in all of our communities, urban and rural, there would be a universal, continued movement to clean and repair and paint barns and sheds, build sidewalks, clean ditch banks, and make our properties a thing of beauty to behold. We have asked leaders of youth groups, auxiliary organizations, and priesthood quorums to give power to this concentrated action for beautification. The Lord said: “The earth is the Lord’s, and the fulness thereof.” (Ps. 24:1.) “And I the Lord God, took the man [Adam], and put him into the Garden of Eden, to dress it, and to keep it.” (Moses 3:15.) Therefore, we urge each of you to dress and keep in a beautiful state the property that is in your hands." Spencer W. Kimball, October 1974
Meditations on Jesus' Word..."Look unto God with firmness of mind, and pray unto him with exceeding faith, and he will console you in your afflictions, and he will plead your cause," Jacob 3:1. Jesus knows me and wants so much to bring joy to my time here on earth. To receive this blessing, I must ask.
Dr. Ginger, Medicine Woman...reread this article from Jeff Novik on Super Foods. I like his attitude. Not overeating while choosing a variety of fruits, vegetables, legumes, and grains, offers one the best chance for attaining and maintaining good health.
Cucina Fresca...discovered the PERFECT mix of veg toppings for my favorite polenta pizza and am working on a millet/flax crust as well. Even my wanna-be carnivore husband couldn't get enough of my now...
Perfect Polenta Pizza
1 c. coarsely ground polenta
pinch calcium hydroxide (pickling lime)
4 c. water
1-2 red onions, minced or pureed
a handful mushrooms of any variety, sliced
1/2 red bell pepper, sliced
2-4 large cloves garlic, in the skin
a handful of baby kale, minced
3-4 basil leaves, minced
1-2 roma tomatoes sliced
pinch dried Italian herb blend
pinch red pepper flakes
twist or two of black pepper
8-12 hours before you plan to eat, soak polenta in water with calcium hydroxide. Prepare vegetables. Over lowest heat, sweat onions in a bit of water; continue cooking until they are caramelized and golden but don't let stick to pan. Meanwhile roast garlic, peppers, and mushrooms at 400F for 20 min or until softened and beginning to brown. While the onions are caramelizing and the other veggies are roasting. Pour polenta and water into a deep pot. Bring to a boil and lower heat, stirring constantly. Wear an oven mitt and partially cover pot to keep polenta from burning you as it pops. Shortly, it will pull away from the side of the pan. Pour polenta on a parchment lined pizza baking sheet and spread about 1/4 inch thick. Let it cool and set up for a few minutes. Pop garlic out of paper skins. Top polenta with onions, sliced roasted garlic, roasted veg, kale, basil, sliced tomatoes, herbs, pepper flakes, and black pepper. Return to hot oven and bake for 10 minutes. Eat with a huge green salad. Wow!
Duds...After living in Walmart-ville for so long, I go used to shopping there and found a couple things I really like. White Stag women's t-shirts are my favorite or were. They were perfect with a not-to-low neckline, a long, feminine cut, nice sturdy fabric, and less than $10. With the changing season, I need a couple new t-shirts and went to Walmart yesterday. Sadly, they changed the fabric and style...sigh...now I have to find a new favorite. I'm not a shopper so this is quite a hardship.
Bibliophilia...King County Washington has probably the best library in the entire US. For sure it hold the honor of the highest level of circulation in the country. Although I like having my own books, it isn't practical to travel with cases of books. I know, because I tried it for some time. So....I am enjoying the library here very much.
Nature Walk...enjoying the signs of spring and this ocean view
Pen and Brush...I simply love to make and send watercolor cards. And some have responded that they like receiving them.
Thought Provoking Quote..."We have launched a cleanup campaign. We are a throw-away people. Trash piles grow faster than population by far. Now we ask you to clean up your homes and your farms. “Man is the keeper of the land, and not its possessor.” Broken fences should be mended or removed. Unused barns should be repaired, roofed, painted, or removed. Sheds and corrals should be repaired and painted, or removed. Weedy ditch banks should be cleared. Abandoned homes could probably be razed. We look forward to the day when, in all of our communities, urban and rural, there would be a universal, continued movement to clean and repair and paint barns and sheds, build sidewalks, clean ditch banks, and make our properties a thing of beauty to behold. We have asked leaders of youth groups, auxiliary organizations, and priesthood quorums to give power to this concentrated action for beautification. The Lord said: “The earth is the Lord’s, and the fulness thereof.” (Ps. 24:1.) “And I the Lord God, took the man [Adam], and put him into the Garden of Eden, to dress it, and to keep it.” (Moses 3:15.) Therefore, we urge each of you to dress and keep in a beautiful state the property that is in your hands." Spencer W. Kimball, October 1974
Monday, March 18, 2013
Happy Birthday Grandma!
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I was blessed this weekend to attend my grandmother's 96th birthday party. I love my family, and it's a big one. Grandma had 5 children. Grandpa died in a car accident before they were grown. When she remarried a second cousin of Grandpa's, she inherited 3 more children. I love them all.
While I was growing up, my uncles and aunts were a big part of my life. As a young mother far from her childhood home, I missed them so much.We all just love to visit. Saturday was no exception. On that warm Arizona afternoon, we shared and joked and laughed for hours. The food was simple and enjoyed by everyone. I even found something suitable, when I ate lots of goodies from the veggie platter plus its garnish with salsa and a grapefruit right off my uncle's tree.
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It's not just the one's I've known personally in this life that I love though. All the stories about this great-great grandfather or this great-great aunt are so interesting. I think I must write them down before they are lost.
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In that vein, this week from the 21-23 in SLC is RootsTech conference. They haven't forgotten us that are too far away or too busy to attend. “Best of RootsTech” sessions will be streamed live online all three days of the RootsTech conference at www.rootstech.org.
Sunday, March 10, 2013
medicine for the soul
Praying for...Claire that she will know Jesus, be happy, healthy, and safe. Yes, it this out of order, but it's her 4th birthday this week...also...that all this senseless madness of people killing and maiming others will stop. No, I don't think gun control is the answer. Instead, people need to recapture public and private virtue inspired by Judeo-Christian values.
Meditations on Jesus' Word..."And it came to pass that I, Nephi, said unto my father: I will go and do the things which the Lord hath commanded, for I know that the Lord giveth no commandments unto the children of men, save he shall prepare a way for them that they may accomplish the thing which he commandeth them," 1 Nephi 3:7. I'll go, do, and say what my Lord wants.
Dr. Ginger Medicine Woman...experience allows me to stress the importance of wearing helmets for skating and cycling, but it's equally important to fill our diets with plant foods to guard our loved ones from preventable, degenerative, food-induced illnesses.
Cucina Fresca...our tastiest meal this week was tostadas, which I've given a plant perfect makeover. It can be made easily with fresh or canned ingredients plus homemade or store bought tortillas. Canned pintos can also be used with inferior results.
Tasty Tostadas
1 c. dried pinto beans, soaked for 12-48 hours, drained and rinsed
1 c. salsa verde (3 tomatillos, roasted and mashed; 1 anaheim chili, roasted and mashed; 1/2 onion, roasted and mashed; 1/2 c. cilantro, minced)
1/2 c. roasted green chilies (3 roasted and diced anaheim chilies)
1/4 t. smoked paprika
dash cayenne
1 T. dehydrated vegetable powder
2 T. dehydrated spinach leaves
1-2 c. bean broth
1/2 c. salsa rojo (chopped tomatoes, onions, garlic, jalapenos, and cilantro)
6 corn tortillas
thinly sliced romaine lettuce
1 large tomato, chopped
Cover pinto beans in a slow cooker and cook for 8-12 hours until very soft. Drain but save bean broth. Put in pan. Mash with salsa verde, green chilies, paprika, cayenne, veggie powder, spinach, and enough bean broth to make mixture sort of soupy. Simmer until thick but spreadable. Meanwhile, bake tortillas on a cookie sheet at 425F for 10-20 minutes or until crispy. Spread beans on tortillas, top with salsa, lettuce, and tomatoes.
Movement...looking forward to much more Shinrin-yoku, Japanese for "forest bath." According to research, walking in the forest lowers stress levels compared to a similar amount of time walking in a noisy city. Who knew the sounds, sights, and smells of the forest could be more than just fun; it's medicine.
Pen and Brush...I sent this card to Cole; it's far from perfect but very fun to create special cards for loved ones.
Meditations on Jesus' Word..."And it came to pass that I, Nephi, said unto my father: I will go and do the things which the Lord hath commanded, for I know that the Lord giveth no commandments unto the children of men, save he shall prepare a way for them that they may accomplish the thing which he commandeth them," 1 Nephi 3:7. I'll go, do, and say what my Lord wants.
Dr. Ginger Medicine Woman...experience allows me to stress the importance of wearing helmets for skating and cycling, but it's equally important to fill our diets with plant foods to guard our loved ones from preventable, degenerative, food-induced illnesses.
Cucina Fresca...our tastiest meal this week was tostadas, which I've given a plant perfect makeover. It can be made easily with fresh or canned ingredients plus homemade or store bought tortillas. Canned pintos can also be used with inferior results.
Tasty Tostadas
1 c. dried pinto beans, soaked for 12-48 hours, drained and rinsed
1 c. salsa verde (3 tomatillos, roasted and mashed; 1 anaheim chili, roasted and mashed; 1/2 onion, roasted and mashed; 1/2 c. cilantro, minced)
1/2 c. roasted green chilies (3 roasted and diced anaheim chilies)
1/4 t. smoked paprika
dash cayenne
1 T. dehydrated vegetable powder
2 T. dehydrated spinach leaves
1-2 c. bean broth
1/2 c. salsa rojo (chopped tomatoes, onions, garlic, jalapenos, and cilantro)
6 corn tortillas
thinly sliced romaine lettuce
1 large tomato, chopped
Cover pinto beans in a slow cooker and cook for 8-12 hours until very soft. Drain but save bean broth. Put in pan. Mash with salsa verde, green chilies, paprika, cayenne, veggie powder, spinach, and enough bean broth to make mixture sort of soupy. Simmer until thick but spreadable. Meanwhile, bake tortillas on a cookie sheet at 425F for 10-20 minutes or until crispy. Spread beans on tortillas, top with salsa, lettuce, and tomatoes.
Movement...looking forward to much more Shinrin-yoku, Japanese for "forest bath." According to research, walking in the forest lowers stress levels compared to a similar amount of time walking in a noisy city. Who knew the sounds, sights, and smells of the forest could be more than just fun; it's medicine.
Pen and Brush...I sent this card to Cole; it's far from perfect but very fun to create special cards for loved ones.
Wednesday, January 30, 2013
feeding a family of four heartily and nutritiously on less than $8 per day
So many people these days are out of work, bunking in with friends and family, and so very limited in their choices. But…they don’t have to ruin their health because of unfortunate circumstances. While it is true that a frozen pizza is cheap and filling, it is not as nutritious, tasty, or interesting as a pan as roasted, organic, root vegetables. Preparing meals from scratch isn’t as time consuming or labor intensive, as many believe. A pot of beans or vegetable soup is uncomplicated and inexpensive. Growing sprouts in glass jars is easy, fun, fast, and economical.
Certainly, cheap, calorie-dense, prepared foods will allow for basic survival and keep one full but often at the expense of daily nutritional needs and opens the door to degenerative diseases and viruses. For instance, humans need at least 90 mg of vitamin C daily. Without it scurvy may develop and immunity will weaker. Bananas and apples are good but not good enough. Why? Since an apple or banana provides approximately 15% of vitamin C, you would need to consume 7 or 8 a day to get enough of just this vitamin. Because the body doesn’t store vitamin C, each person in the family would need a several apples and bananas every day-expensive. Because one cup shredded green or red cabbage provides 85% of vitamin C, it is an inexpensive alternative. Raw or cultured cabbage can be very enjoyable. One favorite cabbage salad recipe contains one small head of green or red cabbage, shredded, a red pepper flakes, a couple grated carrots, a bit of cilantro and onion, salt, and pepper. Another good one is one small head of green or red cabbage, shredded, one apple minced, a little lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Red Kraut is beautiful plus easy and fun to make in quart canning jars from shredded red cabbage, a pureed apple, and salt. In addition to vitamin C, cabbage is rich in vitamin A, potassium, calcium and many other nutrients. One pound of organic cabbage costs usually around $2.
A family on a very tight budget can eat like kings if they are smart. High-protein, organic root vegetables, such as beets, carrots, garlic, onions, radishes, potatoes, or yams are delicious roasted (thinly sliced or cubed) with some dried herbs, salt, and pepper. Organic beets can be grated to make a classic French salad with the addition of lemon juice, pepper, and sea salt. (The French make the same child-pleasing salad with carrots sans pepper.) Beets are not only delicious but a rich source of B-complex, phytochemicals, and potassium. Plus, they are a 2 in 1 vegetable. The green tops are an excellent source of vitamin C, iron, calcium, protein, beta-carotene, Vitamin K, other vitamins and other minerals are wonderful in salads, smoothies, and braised. During the gardening season, excess greens and herbs can be dehydrated to add to soups and stews for winter nutrition and flavor.
Back to the pizza’s filling power, roots are filling calorie-dense foods. They can fill up the belly but unlike the pizza, they aren’t constipating, aren’t empty of nutrition, and don’t create/exacerbate degenerative disease. For instance potato (or other root cellar vegetable) soup is one of the easiest things to cook. It needs no fats or flours to make a rib-sticking meal. Wash and dice a couple stalks celery (optional), a few sprigs of parsley (or dried herbs) 1-2 lbs. potatoes, beets, carrots, squash, and/or yams, 1 onion, and a few optional mushrooms, add them to a quart or 2 of water in a crock pot or soup pot, cover with a lid, and cook over “low” heat until vegetables are soft. Add salt and pepper to taste and puree or not. Eat with cabbage, carrot, or beet salad. Brown bagging couldn’t be simpler with a thermos of soup, a container of salad or kraut, and a few cinnamon-dusted apple slices.
Another amazing thing about root vegetables, winter squashes, and cabbage is their ability to stay fresh all winter, when kept in a cool location. One octogenarian friend told about his childhood family garden with all manner of carrots, onions, potatoes, squash, beets, and cabbages that kept them fed during winter. They grew them in summer, filled the root cellar in the fall, and ate foods as described above all winter and spring.
Another nutrient packed, belly-satisfying product my friend’s childhood family grew were beans for drying. Whether you buy or grow your dried beans, they are very nutritious, delicious, and economical. A pound of organic pinto beans generally costs under $2 and expands to three pounds when cooked. For the most nutritious, least gassy beans, soak in water for 24 hours, drain and rinse, sprout another 24-48 hours, rinsing and draining each 12 hours. Slow cook your beans with some chopped onion for 3-12 hours until very tender, depending on the age of the bean. This seems like a lot of work, but it becomes automatic. Generally, we are in the kitchen for breakfast and dinner. Use these times to rinse beans and sprouts. It's that easy. Beans are a powerhouse of fiber, folate, calcium, iron, potassium, phosphorus, magnesium, B vitamins, and protein with many other vitamins and minerals in small amounts. A pot of pintos mashed with salt, pepper, and chili powder is delicious. Our favorite is to make pinto tacos with intact romaine leaves or corn tortillas (sometimes homemade) topped with alfalfa sprouts and salsa (maybe cultured from the summer garden). Additionally, adding a cup of cooked beans or lentils of any variety to your vegetable soup makes for an entirely different presentation.
Back to those apples and bananas…a morning without a proper breakfast makes for a wasted day. Organic brown rice is inexpensive and can make a nutritious, delicious meal. With one cup of cooked rice, ½ banana (or 2 prunes), and ¼ apple per person, you have the means to feed and fill the family. Puree until utterly smooth in the blender ½ c. cooked rice, ½ banana (or 2 prunes), ½ + c. water, and some cinnamon per person, stir in ½ c. cooked rice per serving. Heat until steamy and stir in ¼ diced apple (fresh or dehydrated) per serving. It’s very yummy and filling plus packs in a nice amount of protein, iron, calcium, vitamins, and minerals.
Finally, adding a small bunch of sprouts to the top of soup or mixed into a salad each day can dramatically increase vitamins and minerals in the diet. A simple mixture of alfalfa, clover, and broccoli is easy to grow in pint canning jars with a bit of cheesecloth and a rubber band. Using about 2 t. seeds per jar, soak, drain, rinse, and drain each 12 hours until they are ready in 3-5 days. Start a new jar each day for a constant supply of fresh greens. Since sprouts are 100s of times more nutrient dense than mature greens, only a small handful is needed per person per day. More is better, but less is enough.
It is possible to feed a family of 4 a diet like this for about $50 +- per week without growing anything except sprouts and is much less than the $114 allotted amount for food stamps for a family of four. With this left over money, additional fruits and vegetables as well as food for storage can be purchased. There are dozens of ways to prepare root vegetables, squash, cabbage, and beans so that boredom need never set in. Thankfully, this diet is nutritionally sound for all humans, according to the research of Dr. John Mc Dougall and Dr. Colin Campbell. All of these except the bananas and maybe rice can be grown in the summer garden or in the house for an even higher level of self-sufficiency. What a grand thing to teach our children!
Tuesday, May 15, 2012
Favorite Gym Reopened
I tend to think a bit like Mireille Guiliano and steer clear of treadmills and sweat pants. I tried the gym thing and jogging and exercise videos, but keep returning to my two favorite forms of exercise, walking and gardening. Since spring has arrived in the mountains, I can put away the exercise tape and make my favorite form of exertion an integral part of my day. I walk and garden in the same skirts and dresses that I wear to write, clean house, play violin and piano, and read. To me the best exercise is digging garden beds and walking to the grocer. Because I enjoy it and am healthy enough for it this season, it is the surest way to overcome the mental hurdle of moving my tush. I reap the benefits of exercise without the bother of driving to the gym, avoiding the roving eyes and comments of middle-aged single men, performing repetitious and boring movements on machines, showering in a strange place, and driving back home again. Engaging in outdoor movement I love, my stress and fatigue are lowered, as well as my tan improved, vitamin D is absorbed, my body is strengthened, and my sleep improved. Plus, I don't have to shell out cash for a membership, I save gas and time, and I grow organic produce and flowers. Who could ask for more?
Wednesday, March 28, 2012
No Good Stopping Place
Daily Spencer and I taunt each other over who got the most books in the mail. Although we are each responsible for purchasing our own used books from Amazon, we feign scorn over the one who didn't get as many scruffy manilla envelopes as the other. Surely, the one with the most books wins the prize.
I also tell the mail carrier and UPS driver they are Santa Claus, bringing me unexpected delight. So it's not unexpected, but it is still thrilling. Reading the following article from BYU Magazine, I felt a kinship with the author. He would understand the joke Spencer and I share and agree with my delights from Santa.
NO GOOD STOPPING PLACE
By Richard H. Cracroft
I was certain it was forbidden. And so, of course, I did it—and got away with it, I thought. Night after delicious night, beginning at about age 13, I would say my prayers, prop my antiallergenic pillows high, turn on the bed lamp, and settle in for my nightly read—in such pasty jewels as Tom Swift, Nancy Drew, and, gem of gems, Red Randall at Pearl Harbor. At or near 10 o’clock, my be-nightgowned mother would enter my room; bestow a be-Mentholatumed, be-curlered, and be–cold creamed kiss upon my brow; and turn out my light. As soon as the door closed, I would pull my four-battery Boy Scout flashlight from beneath the mattress and settle in for the most delicious (because forbidden) minutes of my day—reading until the end of the chapter or the episode or the mystery, or until the stack of peanut butter–laden saltine crackers in my bedstand drawer had finally disappeared, leaving their miserable crumbs across the expanse of my bed.
This pleasant routine grew less exciting, however, when I realized, at about age 14, that no batteries could last that long—that Mom had been replenishing them, thus subsidizing my sin. I soon brazenly began leaving the bedlamp on until Dad, elbowed by Mom, would speak as one having authority—that is, loudly—and, after half-past 12 or so, would yell, “Dick, turn out the light—now!” Resigned to the inevitability of sleep, I would grudgingly mumble, “As soon as I reach a stopping place,” and comply.
Since those halcyon days, and especially since becoming a parent myself, I have often pondered the subtle and less-than-subtle ways in which my parents encouraged reading and a love for the arts in our home. I admired them for their conscious and unconscious encouragement, and I wished to go and do likewise. Somewhere, in their very English homes or in high school, they had learned to place a premium on the value of literature. Somewhere, they had learned that literature—and its fair handmaidens, art and music—provides various but satisfying pathways to the discovery of oneself; that study of the best literature (the belles lettres) and the best of music and art allows access to significant human experience and thus can dramatically increase one’s awareness not only of the distinctively human but also the distinctively godlike potential in all of us.
Somewhere, my parents learned that great art, understood in the context of the plan of God, can become a means to awaken, refine, enrich, and sensitize the spiritual man and woman, moving them to joy in recognizing the beauty and truth discernible even in the mists of mortality. My parents learned, and somehow taught their children to respect, the importance of literature in quickening one’s understanding of honor, pity, pride, compassion, courage, devotion, and love—those old values and verities.
When I was ill (which I often was), I could count on Dad’s visit to the public library on my behalf, returning home with stacks of books. When I was about 8 years old, my father took me to the bank, where he opened my own account, taught me how to deposit and save my earnings, and how to calculate my tithing. Then he took me to the majestic library, where I became a card-carrying patron and began, increasingly, to wander the aisles and check out books for two weeks, which I have done ever since.
Soon after this, Dad introduced me to his many boyhood volumes of Horatio Alger, The Motor Boys, and Tom Swift, from which I imbibed the old-fashioned values of personal integrity, logical thinking, democracy, fair play, pluck, and the inevitable triumph of good over evil. From my married sister’s abandoned volumes of Nancy Drew, I learned that girls were smart after all and capable of solving all manner of crimes. From such oft-read and reverenced books as Touchdown to Victory, A Minute to Play, All-American, and Ros Hackney, Halfback, I learned gridiron grit, prowess, moral courage, and, despite occasional losses, the inevitable triumph of good over evil. In fact, I secretly became Ros Hackney and imaginatively relived his gridiron successes on our neighborhood sandlot.
When Mom and Dad took me to see Edmond Rostand’s Cyrano de Bergerac, starring José Ferrer, I became an English major in the making, so enchanted that Mom rushed to purchase a copy of the play for me. I devoured it, memorized most of Cyrano’s speeches, and plunged into a summer of front porch dramatic presentations of the play, highlighted by prolonged duels fought with my buddies while we recited Cyrano’s impromptu poetry, which yet rings in my mind: “Hark, how the steel rings musical!/Mark how my point floats, light as the foam,/Ready to drive you back to the wall,/Then, as I end the refrain, thrust home!”
I am grateful for the milieu that my parents established for me, the youngest of my family; from this came my lifelong love of literature and the arts and promoted my love of the gospel. During my 30-month Swiss-Austrian mission Mother stayed on duty, sending me 35 books (which I listed in my journal and still own) by prophets and apostles. I took those books into my soul—they’re still there.
Your customized milieus and those of your children will be different from mine. My mother and father enriched and guided my life through their love, encouragement, and understanding of my needs, and they established a pattern of learning that continues to bless my life. I encourage each of you to establish a milieu adapted to the particular needs of your family—if you haven’t done so already—which will enable your family’s eternal progression.
Today, at age 75, I am still reading two or three books a week. I have read every night, for 30 to 90 minutes, in every place I have ever slept, over my entire life. Reading is as much a part of my regimen as brushing my teeth, praying, and kissing my long-suffering wife, Janice, a devoted reader herself, who drops off long before I do. She confesses to anyone who will commiserate that she hasn’t had a good night’s sleep in a darkened room in 52 years.
For 20 years this column has always been about books well written and well read, about quality reading that educates, refines, inspires, and blesses readers during their mortal and eternal lives. As I bid a heartfelt auf Wiedersehen to my little flock of faithful and occasional readers, I would like to express how vital it is for ourselves and our families to understand the centrality of reading, the thoughtful discussion of good books, and the art of reading good books by the light of the Holy Spirit. As teachers and parents in Zion, the cultivation in our homes of milieus of eternal progress is the key to the spiritual and intellectual development of our families.
Like most parents, I would wring my hands over my children. But one evening two of my three children (the other one, always an avid reader, was out on a date) gave me hope. On saying my good nights I found, in two separate bedrooms, a fine young son and daughter—both engrossed, for a change, in good books. Acting nonchalant, I said, to each of them, “It’s late,” for it was—and that is what any father is expected to say at 11 o’clock on a school night. Reluctantly, for as far as I was concerned they could read all night, I said, “Don’t you think you should turn out your light and get some sleep?” “Oh, Dad,” they said, in their different ways, “don’t bug me; I’m at a really good part. I’ll quit when I reach a good stopping place.” Sidling triumphantly into my own room, thrilled at having witnessed genuine excitement for reading, I began to express to my wife my hopes for a literary progeny. “Shuusssh,” she muttered, reaching for a peanut-buttered saltine, “I’m just about at a stopping place.”
But I knew better, I thought, reaching for my own book and seeing “in my mind’s eye” my own dear parents reading in their long-ago bed. With literature, as with the arts, as with faith—and life—there is really no good stopping place.
Five Blessings of Reading
1. In reading, we experience one of the greatest pleasures human life can afford us; books sweeten, nourish, brighten, and enrich our lives.
2. Books enable us to live more lives than the one allotted and allow us to experience impossible adventures.
3. Books help us to process, order, and understand our personal experience and gain perspectives on others’ lives.
4. Books enable us to see outcomes where we presently see only possibilities; solutions where we presently see only dilemmas; direction where we presently see only impasse.
5. Books allow us an opportunity to learn how to discern the Holy Spirit and respond to its promptings.
By Richard H. Cracroft
I was certain it was forbidden. And so, of course, I did it—and got away with it, I thought. Night after delicious night, beginning at about age 13, I would say my prayers, prop my antiallergenic pillows high, turn on the bed lamp, and settle in for my nightly read—in such pasty jewels as Tom Swift, Nancy Drew, and, gem of gems, Red Randall at Pearl Harbor. At or near 10 o’clock, my be-nightgowned mother would enter my room; bestow a be-Mentholatumed, be-curlered, and be–cold creamed kiss upon my brow; and turn out my light. As soon as the door closed, I would pull my four-battery Boy Scout flashlight from beneath the mattress and settle in for the most delicious (because forbidden) minutes of my day—reading until the end of the chapter or the episode or the mystery, or until the stack of peanut butter–laden saltine crackers in my bedstand drawer had finally disappeared, leaving their miserable crumbs across the expanse of my bed.
This pleasant routine grew less exciting, however, when I realized, at about age 14, that no batteries could last that long—that Mom had been replenishing them, thus subsidizing my sin. I soon brazenly began leaving the bedlamp on until Dad, elbowed by Mom, would speak as one having authority—that is, loudly—and, after half-past 12 or so, would yell, “Dick, turn out the light—now!” Resigned to the inevitability of sleep, I would grudgingly mumble, “As soon as I reach a stopping place,” and comply.
Since those halcyon days, and especially since becoming a parent myself, I have often pondered the subtle and less-than-subtle ways in which my parents encouraged reading and a love for the arts in our home. I admired them for their conscious and unconscious encouragement, and I wished to go and do likewise. Somewhere, in their very English homes or in high school, they had learned to place a premium on the value of literature. Somewhere, they had learned that literature—and its fair handmaidens, art and music—provides various but satisfying pathways to the discovery of oneself; that study of the best literature (the belles lettres) and the best of music and art allows access to significant human experience and thus can dramatically increase one’s awareness not only of the distinctively human but also the distinctively godlike potential in all of us.
Somewhere, my parents learned that great art, understood in the context of the plan of God, can become a means to awaken, refine, enrich, and sensitize the spiritual man and woman, moving them to joy in recognizing the beauty and truth discernible even in the mists of mortality. My parents learned, and somehow taught their children to respect, the importance of literature in quickening one’s understanding of honor, pity, pride, compassion, courage, devotion, and love—those old values and verities.
When I was ill (which I often was), I could count on Dad’s visit to the public library on my behalf, returning home with stacks of books. When I was about 8 years old, my father took me to the bank, where he opened my own account, taught me how to deposit and save my earnings, and how to calculate my tithing. Then he took me to the majestic library, where I became a card-carrying patron and began, increasingly, to wander the aisles and check out books for two weeks, which I have done ever since.
Soon after this, Dad introduced me to his many boyhood volumes of Horatio Alger, The Motor Boys, and Tom Swift, from which I imbibed the old-fashioned values of personal integrity, logical thinking, democracy, fair play, pluck, and the inevitable triumph of good over evil. From my married sister’s abandoned volumes of Nancy Drew, I learned that girls were smart after all and capable of solving all manner of crimes. From such oft-read and reverenced books as Touchdown to Victory, A Minute to Play, All-American, and Ros Hackney, Halfback, I learned gridiron grit, prowess, moral courage, and, despite occasional losses, the inevitable triumph of good over evil. In fact, I secretly became Ros Hackney and imaginatively relived his gridiron successes on our neighborhood sandlot.
When Mom and Dad took me to see Edmond Rostand’s Cyrano de Bergerac, starring José Ferrer, I became an English major in the making, so enchanted that Mom rushed to purchase a copy of the play for me. I devoured it, memorized most of Cyrano’s speeches, and plunged into a summer of front porch dramatic presentations of the play, highlighted by prolonged duels fought with my buddies while we recited Cyrano’s impromptu poetry, which yet rings in my mind: “Hark, how the steel rings musical!/Mark how my point floats, light as the foam,/Ready to drive you back to the wall,/Then, as I end the refrain, thrust home!”
I am grateful for the milieu that my parents established for me, the youngest of my family; from this came my lifelong love of literature and the arts and promoted my love of the gospel. During my 30-month Swiss-Austrian mission Mother stayed on duty, sending me 35 books (which I listed in my journal and still own) by prophets and apostles. I took those books into my soul—they’re still there.
Your customized milieus and those of your children will be different from mine. My mother and father enriched and guided my life through their love, encouragement, and understanding of my needs, and they established a pattern of learning that continues to bless my life. I encourage each of you to establish a milieu adapted to the particular needs of your family—if you haven’t done so already—which will enable your family’s eternal progression.
Today, at age 75, I am still reading two or three books a week. I have read every night, for 30 to 90 minutes, in every place I have ever slept, over my entire life. Reading is as much a part of my regimen as brushing my teeth, praying, and kissing my long-suffering wife, Janice, a devoted reader herself, who drops off long before I do. She confesses to anyone who will commiserate that she hasn’t had a good night’s sleep in a darkened room in 52 years.
For 20 years this column has always been about books well written and well read, about quality reading that educates, refines, inspires, and blesses readers during their mortal and eternal lives. As I bid a heartfelt auf Wiedersehen to my little flock of faithful and occasional readers, I would like to express how vital it is for ourselves and our families to understand the centrality of reading, the thoughtful discussion of good books, and the art of reading good books by the light of the Holy Spirit. As teachers and parents in Zion, the cultivation in our homes of milieus of eternal progress is the key to the spiritual and intellectual development of our families.
Like most parents, I would wring my hands over my children. But one evening two of my three children (the other one, always an avid reader, was out on a date) gave me hope. On saying my good nights I found, in two separate bedrooms, a fine young son and daughter—both engrossed, for a change, in good books. Acting nonchalant, I said, to each of them, “It’s late,” for it was—and that is what any father is expected to say at 11 o’clock on a school night. Reluctantly, for as far as I was concerned they could read all night, I said, “Don’t you think you should turn out your light and get some sleep?” “Oh, Dad,” they said, in their different ways, “don’t bug me; I’m at a really good part. I’ll quit when I reach a good stopping place.” Sidling triumphantly into my own room, thrilled at having witnessed genuine excitement for reading, I began to express to my wife my hopes for a literary progeny. “Shuusssh,” she muttered, reaching for a peanut-buttered saltine, “I’m just about at a stopping place.”
But I knew better, I thought, reaching for my own book and seeing “in my mind’s eye” my own dear parents reading in their long-ago bed. With literature, as with the arts, as with faith—and life—there is really no good stopping place.
Five Blessings of Reading
1. In reading, we experience one of the greatest pleasures human life can afford us; books sweeten, nourish, brighten, and enrich our lives.
2. Books enable us to live more lives than the one allotted and allow us to experience impossible adventures.
3. Books help us to process, order, and understand our personal experience and gain perspectives on others’ lives.
4. Books enable us to see outcomes where we presently see only possibilities; solutions where we presently see only dilemmas; direction where we presently see only impasse.
5. Books allow us an opportunity to learn how to discern the Holy Spirit and respond to its promptings.
Monday, November 7, 2011
He wants
Nikki and Rohn's wedding was wonderful. It was nice to have so much family there. I may post some pictures soon. At the last minute her photographer bailed, but Joseph has a client that helped out. It was also nice that this event wasn't a funeral.
This has been quite a year. Just about this time last year, we brought Joseph's parents to our place and then onto Phoenix. They both died before summer arrived. We had a further disappointment with Spencer and his mission. With all the stress and hard physical work, I've struggled with my health, too. Last November I felt great. Since then things have been a roller coaster. Hopefully, I'm on the upside of all this and can count on no more health crisis times. I think the only thing that has kept me from following in the footsteps of my in-laws was my very healthy eating and herculean attempts to remain positive.
However, I remain a bit leery of making decisions and plans. It seems when I do, they are always foiled; something terrible happens. Probably, this is a lesson from Heavenly Father that I need to let go and let Him lead. I need to have faith, seek to discover His will, and go where He wants me to go, say what He wants me to say, be what He wants me to be.
One other great happening this trip was seeing the new Gig Harbor office/home. Right now it's tiny and not a place we can live yet. Oh, we might pull it off with a bit of juggling and ingenuity, if it's just the two of us. Nevertheless, I'm not ready to give Spencer the boot, since I think it is a good thing for young people to live at home until they are comfortable going off on their own. But if it is THE place, it has a lovely sunny 1/2 acre or so to plant my dream garden sans citrus and avocado. Berries, fruits, all fruit trees, and nearly all sorts of garden truck grow like a dream in this mild, moist, maritime, micro-climate. Working in the soil, my spirit is always buoyed. Joseph always says, I have farmer in my blood. This may be true, considering my family history.
This has been quite a year. Just about this time last year, we brought Joseph's parents to our place and then onto Phoenix. They both died before summer arrived. We had a further disappointment with Spencer and his mission. With all the stress and hard physical work, I've struggled with my health, too. Last November I felt great. Since then things have been a roller coaster. Hopefully, I'm on the upside of all this and can count on no more health crisis times. I think the only thing that has kept me from following in the footsteps of my in-laws was my very healthy eating and herculean attempts to remain positive.
However, I remain a bit leery of making decisions and plans. It seems when I do, they are always foiled; something terrible happens. Probably, this is a lesson from Heavenly Father that I need to let go and let Him lead. I need to have faith, seek to discover His will, and go where He wants me to go, say what He wants me to say, be what He wants me to be.
One other great happening this trip was seeing the new Gig Harbor office/home. Right now it's tiny and not a place we can live yet. Oh, we might pull it off with a bit of juggling and ingenuity, if it's just the two of us. Nevertheless, I'm not ready to give Spencer the boot, since I think it is a good thing for young people to live at home until they are comfortable going off on their own. But if it is THE place, it has a lovely sunny 1/2 acre or so to plant my dream garden sans citrus and avocado. Berries, fruits, all fruit trees, and nearly all sorts of garden truck grow like a dream in this mild, moist, maritime, micro-climate. Working in the soil, my spirit is always buoyed. Joseph always says, I have farmer in my blood. This may be true, considering my family history.
Friday, October 28, 2011
Soup, Salad, Soul, and Soil
1. After watching the videos below, I felt inspired to discover a recipe for pumpkin beyond your typical pies, muffins, and such. Joseph and I are having a great time working together, building a very deep mulch over our back 40 garden and rear flower beds. Since we began studying permaculture, this idea of hands-off gardening is appealing to us more and more. Like Ruth Stout and Patricia Lanza, I am in no shape to double dig garden beds especially in heavy clay. Joseph simply doesn't have the time. Geoff Lawton reminded us of this method in one of his videos, which I tried once before with some success. Anyway, using these very successful ideas in my back 40 (or where ever we end up), we might have a great garden again. I loved the part in the video, where Mrs. Stout bragged that she hadn't been in a grocery story in 15 years and grows all her food. Since my goal is to emulate this ideal, I need to learn to cook things like pumpkin in a variety of ways.
2. The following recipe was drastically modified from one I found on the internet. Because it is altered to the point of being a totally different product, I don't feel compelled to link the original. Serve this with the usual mega-huge salad, perhaps buckwheat lettuce, romaine, lentil and alfalfa sprouts, shredded beets, shredded carrots, julienned jicama lightly dressed with balsamic vinaigrette.
Pumpkin Tomato Basil Soup
Serves 10-12
1 small sugar pumpkin, seeded, peeled, and cut in chunks.
7 tomatoes, chopped or 2 pts. diced tomato
4 c. onion broth
8 carrots, peeled and sliced
3 cloves garlic
1 onion, chopped
2 stalks celery, chopped
12 oz. mushrooms, sliced
2 T. minced fresh basil
1 bunch kale, chopped finely
2-3 small zucchini, chopped
pinch cayenne pepper
1 c. almonds soaked for 8 hours
Put all ingredients except mushrooms, kale, basil, chia seeds, and soaked nuts in a crock pot on low heat for 4-6 hours. When pumpkin is very soft, put nuts, a small amount of the broth, and chia seeds in the blender, and puree. When this is smooth, puree the rest of the soup in batches, returning it to the pot. Add basil and kale. Dry saute mushrooms and zucchini cvered with 1 t. dried basil until golden. Ladle soup into bowls and top with mushroom mixture as you would croutons. Soup freezes well without kale, mushrooms or zucchini. Add them fresh, after thawing and warming
Balsamic Vinaigrette
1 1/4 t. light miso
1/4 t. dry mustard
5 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 C. balsamic vinegar
1/4 C. lemon juice
3/4 C. water
2 T. soaked sunflower seeds or almonds
Combine all ingredients in a magic bullet and process until utterly smooth. Put in cruet and keep refrigerated, shaking well before each use.
3. So last winter I yelled at a boy, who threw a snow ball at my wind shield. Although I was justified in my fright, I wasn't justified in anger or contention. I knew it then and the thing has haunted me with guilt ever since. Yesterday, that boy brought me a huge load of fall leaves for my new project. He could have used them on his family's garden. Instead, this peace offering was extended by a 12-year-old. I'm humbled and filled with joy.
4. Where Can I Turn for Peace is my new piece. I've worked on it before but not fully memorized it with violin, piano, or voice. However, each time I have a crisis in my life, this hymn pops into my mind. It is the loveliest prayer for those striving for joy and peace.
5. I'm changing the way I work my indoor farm. I've been very successful, if I don't leave town for more than a day or so. But if it's any longer the whole thing is dead, when I get back. I read a permaculture book this week, Lasagne Gardening. Inside she talks something about container gardening, which made a light bulb go off in my head. So.....after we get back from Nikki's wedding next weekend, I'm going to experiment with 12' shallow terra cotta pot saucers, pea gravel, cotton clothes line, and a 1 gallon glass juice bottle. I'm hopeful that this will allow me to continue to enjoy micro-farming even if we have to tend to business elsewhere.
2. The following recipe was drastically modified from one I found on the internet. Because it is altered to the point of being a totally different product, I don't feel compelled to link the original. Serve this with the usual mega-huge salad, perhaps buckwheat lettuce, romaine, lentil and alfalfa sprouts, shredded beets, shredded carrots, julienned jicama lightly dressed with balsamic vinaigrette.
Pumpkin Tomato Basil Soup
Serves 10-12
1 small sugar pumpkin, seeded, peeled, and cut in chunks.
7 tomatoes, chopped or 2 pts. diced tomato
4 c. onion broth
8 carrots, peeled and sliced
3 cloves garlic
1 onion, chopped
2 stalks celery, chopped
12 oz. mushrooms, sliced
2 T. minced fresh basil
1 bunch kale, chopped finely
2-3 small zucchini, chopped
pinch cayenne pepper
1 c. almonds soaked for 8 hours
Put all ingredients except mushrooms, kale, basil, chia seeds, and soaked nuts in a crock pot on low heat for 4-6 hours. When pumpkin is very soft, put nuts, a small amount of the broth, and chia seeds in the blender, and puree. When this is smooth, puree the rest of the soup in batches, returning it to the pot. Add basil and kale. Dry saute mushrooms and zucchini cvered with 1 t. dried basil until golden. Ladle soup into bowls and top with mushroom mixture as you would croutons. Soup freezes well without kale, mushrooms or zucchini. Add them fresh, after thawing and warming
Balsamic Vinaigrette
1 1/4 t. light miso
1/4 t. dry mustard
5 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 C. balsamic vinegar
1/4 C. lemon juice
3/4 C. water
2 T. soaked sunflower seeds or almonds
Combine all ingredients in a magic bullet and process until utterly smooth. Put in cruet and keep refrigerated, shaking well before each use.
3. So last winter I yelled at a boy, who threw a snow ball at my wind shield. Although I was justified in my fright, I wasn't justified in anger or contention. I knew it then and the thing has haunted me with guilt ever since. Yesterday, that boy brought me a huge load of fall leaves for my new project. He could have used them on his family's garden. Instead, this peace offering was extended by a 12-year-old. I'm humbled and filled with joy.
4. Where Can I Turn for Peace is my new piece. I've worked on it before but not fully memorized it with violin, piano, or voice. However, each time I have a crisis in my life, this hymn pops into my mind. It is the loveliest prayer for those striving for joy and peace.
5. I'm changing the way I work my indoor farm. I've been very successful, if I don't leave town for more than a day or so. But if it's any longer the whole thing is dead, when I get back. I read a permaculture book this week, Lasagne Gardening. Inside she talks something about container gardening, which made a light bulb go off in my head. So.....after we get back from Nikki's wedding next weekend, I'm going to experiment with 12' shallow terra cotta pot saucers, pea gravel, cotton clothes line, and a 1 gallon glass juice bottle. I'm hopeful that this will allow me to continue to enjoy micro-farming even if we have to tend to business elsewhere.
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