April 28, 2011

I promise I wont do a daily count down, but 27 days...that's all I'm going to say!!!!!!!!

April 28, 2011-Happy Graduation, "S"!

Who knew that so much fun could be packed into such a short period of time. Our family left sunny CA for a trip to cold, windy UT to see "S" graduate from BYU. We had such a great time with "E" and "S" and are so proud of this great accomplishment. We were able to attend the general commencement address where Elder Richard G. Scott was the keynote speaker - he was fantabulous and gave us all some great guidelines for the future. We had a fun dinner at Red Robin and I have to admit that I've never eaten so many fries....I think even the waiter might have been surprised at what we could put away! haha. The next day we went to "S's" department graduation and then out for lunch with the Vongsawad's and Johansen's who also had graduates. We managed to fit in a little swimming, jacuzzi time and a great evening with "E's" family - they are a FUN group to hang with!! Thank you, Shuman family for making us feel so welcome and part of your family. Sadly, the next day it was time to head back home. Although our trip was short, it couldn't have been better. We love our Utah kids and can't wait to see them again in about a month!

April 28, 2011-Happy Late Anniversary To The Love Birds

I'm late wishing the Love Birds a happy 1st Anniversary. We actually had the opportunity to be with them a few days leading up to their first anniversary. It was so great to see them. Now they're spreading their wings and getting ready to make a new nest in the SLC area in a darling little place right in front of the State Capitol. It's an exciting time and it's so fun to watch them enjoying each other and this phase of their life. Happy Anniversary, Love Birds. Sure love ya!!

The Happiest Place On Earth.....

It would be hard to find a better day at "the happiest place on earth"....or five cuter kids to share that day with. We left Vista bright and early and arrived at Disneyland before the park opened, even grabbing one of the best parking spots around. Grace and I turned the fun five loose and declared that the fun should begin! Boy did they have a great time....the park wasn't very crowded, the weather was warm but not sweltering and the fact that they were all hanging out together made it a truly great day. We thought the day might take a turn for the worst when "T" lost her phone, but miracle of all miracles...we were even able to find it and put a smile back on her beautiful face. We all had big plans when we rode the rapids ride of making sure that "D" got soaked, but it all backfired and Grace and I ended up getting the brunt of the water; I guess that's what happens when you make an evil plan. Late in the day we had a surprise visit from Grace's favorite Mousekteer - we love you VJ and are soooo glad you came up; it wouldn't have been the same without you. We stayed for the fireworks....in fact, we closed the park down...and once we got back in the car, it was a very silent ride home. I think it's safe to say a good time was had by one and all....

Last B-Day In Argentina....Is It Possible?

It's "R's" last birthday in Argentina. I thought about him all day on Friday...
I had a little lump in my throat when I remembered how he would call me when he was walking up to campus to go to class and in my head I could hear his voice.
It's hard for me to even imagine the reality of seeing him in just a little over 2 months, but I remember feeling the same way with "S" and thinking that the day would never really come. But it did...and it was glorious!
I love you, big man. Happy 21st birthday. See you in 2 months.

March 20, 2011-March Madness

In our house when we talk about March madness it's not entirely about basketball...we have three birthdays this month that are one right after the other. Don't get me wrong, it's always tons of fun...but it can be a little hectic. We have a few birthday traditions that I always enjoy: the birthday celebratee gets to choose their favorite birthday dinner and during dinner we play "how well do you know...(birthday person)". It is always good for some huge laughs. Today is "P's" birthday and one of the questions was what was "P's" most embarrassing moment. We all gave a variety of guesses, but her answer was "this very moment". I'm pretty sure it had to do with the presence of a certain young man who she was hoping wouldn't hear about her repertoire of embarrassing moments. haha.
In addition to the birthday festivities we've had church activites, school dances and just a lot of other fun.
Next week, we're heading to Disneyland....that will undoubtedly have some blog-worthy moments. Can't wait!!

February 3, 2011-I Love Brown Bananas

There are few things on this earth that can reduce the manly men in my life to pure jello boys. It's not blood, guts, or anything even similar (although I do have one who could faint at the sight on a shot needle and another that could faint in the dentist's office).
The REAL culprit in our house is the over ripe banana! It's true. While my men can watch the grossest of movie scenes and not even bat an eye, squishy bananas can take them down!
The other day I found a recipe for the ultimate banana chocolate chip muffin. I had a moral dilema on my hands: if my manly men knew anything about the contents of these muffins (squishy, overripe bananas) they wouldn't even give them a try. In fact, they'd barf up lunch at the mere thought of the contents (sorry about that visual).
I decided I would take a chance - I made the muffins and immediately hid any evidence of the squishy bananas. I was sweating bullets as I watched the first one being devoured, but after the first came a second and - gasp - even a third! By the following morning, the entire pan was gone!! They were a HUGE hit and I was even questioned about when I'd make them again.
I have a feeling they'll be a family favorite....at least as long as the "secret ingredient" is NEVER revealed. :)
Here's the recipe just in case you feel like testing the ultimate banana chocolate chip muffin:
2 c. flour
1 c. brown sugar, lightly packed
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup virgin olive oil (I imagine any oil would work, but I used olive oil)
4 large, very, very ripe bananas
1/2 c. chocolate chips
preheat over to 350. Line muffin tin with muffin papers.
whisk flour, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. stir in the oil...the batter will be very dry. mash the bananas in a bowl (I used my kitchen aide mixer for that) along with any accumulated juices...yes, you heard me right...accumulated overripe banana juices. Add to the flour mixture and add chocolate chips. Stir to combine.
Fill muffin papers almost to the top and sprinkle with sanding sugar. Bake for 20 minutes and then let cool for 5-10 minutes.
Happy baking....

p.s. I don't really love brown bananas...except in this recipe. :)