2012 in pictures

January

February

March

April

May

June

It sounded like a great idea but I got tired and the computer is not cooperating so we only got to early June.

Christmas programs

Candle light and the middle school band with Ike

Doodle's first song and dance recital with a solo

some of her cousins were in it too

Jill

Abby

Chili

In my search for a chili recipe that was basic enough that I had the ingredients on hand as staples, I tried this one today.  It is based on a Wendy's chili copycat recipe but I adjusted it to my pantry and it turned out great.

Beef Chili
2 lb ground beef
2 cans (15 oz) pinto beans
2 cans (15 oz) kidney beans
2 cans chopped green chilis
1 can crushed tomatoes (14.5 oz)
3 cans (8oz) tomato sauce
2 teas salt
2 teas cumin powder
3 Tbsp chili powder
1 1/2 teas black pepper
2 cups water
1 chopped onion

Brown beef, drain.  Add all ingredients and simmer for 2-3 hours.
Can be used on top of scones for Navajo tacos adding shredded cheese, lettuce, onion, sour cream, tomatoes.

When sorrow comes in the midst of happy times we wonder why.  And what are we to do now.  My heart has been slow to feel the pain of the teachers and children killed at Sandy Hook Elementary.  I think I start in denial.  I don't want it to be true.  I wish everyone could be safe and well.  Life goes differently and I am reminded of the blessings each day brings.  I remember the joy that can still be ours as we list the things we love.  I hope you enjoy this video about counting gifts.



A blog post with links on way you can help and support the families of Newton, CN and be part of a blessing in their lives.

Grateful
325 My children are alive, safe, and 6 are home with me
326 that so many people are hugging their children and looking for ways to make this world a better, safer place
327 that most people are good and when called upon, become heros.
328 for YW lessons on talents that encourage developing talents in order to share with others, build others in their talents and strengthen the kingdom of God.
329 for my Patriarchal blessing that gives me a glimpse of the woman God sees in me and offers direction in what my gifts might be and how I can be developing those gifts.
330 that my son reminded me that my word for this year is present and that I have received great reminders that I want to enjoy the moment I am in and the people I am with.
331  curry and rice 2 days in a row.
332  that we are in the midst of celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ, him who came to earth, taught us the way to live and then paid the price that we might truly live again.
333  there is always hope.

Once in a life time - time

Tried to snap a few pictures to capture the moment.

celebrating a couple of my boys

Peter is welcomed home

 Then I hire him as my driver as we rushed to Idaho to welcome a new baby.  We arrived in time to meet the new family at the birth center and spend some time waiting while she labored

 and enjoyed her homemade yogurt and apples.  Then she got serious, by the wee hours of the morning

 we knew we had another boy to celebrate.  She succeeded in a VBAC and a very healthy baby boy.

 Mom and Dad both very happy with the arrival of Dee Jared.  He is welcomed into a family of love and goodness.

Granny gets a turn to hold, admire, cherish, and marvel.

and our surprise assistant Great Grandma Peterson was there to share in the work and the fun.

Big brother Thomas getting to know his new brother.  

 We helped them settle in at home and get decorated for Christmas.

 We then hurried home in time to plan Pete's homecoming and enjoy the support and love of lots of family.

Grateful
318 for the miracle of birth and life
319 for God's plan of happiness
320 for Jared and Peter.  I can't believe how fast the time passes from birth to manhood
321 family is willing to travel and give up their Sabbath day to spend it with us celebrating righteous service and family support.
322 my mom is willing to travel with me and be a part of this next generation of children.  She is a good sport and fun to be with
323 Peter is a good driver, patient, content with the waiting and just being with family.
324 that I survived a very busy 2 weeks and am still smiling.

He is home!

My son Peter returned from his mission to Florida.  He saved thousands of dollars to pay for his mission, put off college, dating, fun to serve for 2 years being strictly obedient to mission rules, living on a very limited budget, talking to strangers every day.  He is home now and all he can say is he is so thankful for the gift of a mission and the blessing to have served for 2 years.

It is amazing to me how the simpleness of the gospel doesn't always make sense.
The simpleness of giving up your own desires to serve others makes you happy.
The simpleness of living the rules of the gospel makes you free.
The simpleness of keeping covenants brings you opportunities.
The simpleness of hard work brings new energy.
The simpleness of smiling first brings joy to everyone.

I am so grateful that the secret success of gospel living is right in front of all of us.  We simply need to embrace it.  Trust the Lord's plan for us.  Do our best and watch the good unfold.

*I wanted to share some of the fun pictures but for some reason my computer is no longer allowing me or giving me the option of re-sizing pictures.  Please help.

grateful:
310  Safe arrival of my missionary
311 Being the first to get a hug from my missionary
312 late nights visiting with my missionary
313 Seeing gratitude in Peter's eyes, actions and words
314 support of family and friends at the airport
315 for mechanic projects that offer a chance for this missionary to transition back to the physical labor he loves.  A chance to get dirty and see results.
316 Temple trip with Mr. O and Peter
317 that December is coming and you don't need money to be happy