KARMEN'S KREATIONS

COOL...SUPER COOL!!!

2012-02-05T09:43:00.000-07:00

Please don't ask me why my son decided to pose like this for this picture because I have absolutely NO idea and it has nothing to do with this post :) This is my Ezekiel, or Zeke (pronounced Zeekey) as we like to call him. He is 3 and will turn the BIG 4 in 9 days. February 14th to be exact. He is my Valentine's boy. Well, the soon to be 4yr old boy has been going through some type

Where on Earth Can I Find Heaven?

2012-02-03T08:09:00.000-07:00

I miss it like the trees miss April when its fall... Our birth is but a sleep and a forgetting: The Soul that rises with us, our life's Star, 60 Hath had elsewhere its setting, And cometh from afar: Not in entire forgetfulness, And not in utter nakedness, But trailing clouds of glory do we come 65 From God, who is our home: ~ William Wadsworth

Comfort Food for Thought

2012-01-29T11:59:00.003-07:00

You know those foods that when you eat them you just feel good all over? The ones that make you feel warm and safe and happy all the way the very core of your being? Well, I also have those comfort foods for my thoughts. They are things that when I reflect on them I feel this sense of peace that settles over me and sinks down deep into my soul. The story of Joseph Smith and what we mormons

2012-01-28T12:51:00.000-07:00

My husband, Rodrigo, has been having a love affair with film since he can remember. He has always been fascinated with creating for the big screen. He is currently finishing a Bachelor's degree in Digital Media in preparation for obtaining a master's degree in Film Production. Last semester he had to re-create a scene from a film. He chose "The Rabbit's Foot" from Mission Impossible III. I

"Of Thee I Sing"

2012-01-23T07:48:00.000-07:00

I am a collector of children's picture books. I grew up reading. My grandmother, my constant source of inspiration, read to me often and would discuss what we read. She was always pushing me to be the very best I can be and to see the best in all around me. She was truly one to accentuate the positive. It wasn't that she didn't notice the negative she just chose not to focus her energy

...The Meaning of All Things...

2012-01-22T15:26:00.000-07:00

Today I was sitting in stake conference there was a sweet little family sitting in front of us with three beautiful little girls and a baby boy. One of the little girls, an 18 month old was sitting next her her mother. Walking toward the family was a young couple who it seemed the husband of was the brother to the mother of the little family. When the 18 month old saw him her face lit

Plain and Precious

2012-01-19T07:31:00.000-07:00

I love to look at my children when they are sleeping. Basking in their innocence and sweetness while they sleep is the best part of my day! A few nights ago, as we were having our nightly ritual of reading 5 verses from the Book of Mormon, I was finishing up the verse below. The sweet boy on the left, Joaquin, asked me about "garments stained in blood". We talked about symbolism, an

Peace - My Word for 2012

2012-01-02T16:54:00.003-07:00

Where can I turn for peace? Where is my solace when other sources cease to make me whole? When with a wounded heart, anger or malice, I draw myself apart searching my soul? These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world. ~ John 16:33 Peace I leave with you, my peace I give

We Done Good! 2011 in Review

2011-12-31T17:54:00.000-07:00

We’ve clapped and cheered, encouraged, pushed and at times even drug one another along to success throughout this glorious year of 2011. Here are just a few of our reasons for cheering… - Rodrigo “Daddy”, “DaDa”, “Amorcito” – Stayed positive and focused after being laid off from his job Finished 14 classes for a total of 42 credit hours while working part-time and maintained at the

O' THAT I WERE AN ANGEL (Talk 12-18-11)

2011-12-20T22:47:00.000-07:00

Simon Dewey "And His Name Shall Be Called" Luke2:9-11 9 And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. 10 And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. 11 For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the

"...On the Morrow Come I into the World..."

2011-12-11T14:09:00.000-07:00

It wasn't until Christmas, the very end of my 18 month mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, that I really read and caught the spirit of the account of the Savior's birth in the Book of Mormon. I discovered it that particular year in large part due to a re-enactment that we did as a mission for our Christmas Party. At that time I had already read the Book of Mormon several

Guest Post - Ezekiel Diaz

2011-06-03T12:33:00.001-06:00

I'm gonna leave this here. It is Zeke's very first guest post :) xfdfftfcfddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddddd

Easter 2011

2011-05-17T06:39:00.000-06:00

Is there really such thing as a perfectly posed family picture :) I love this one because we are all doing something just a little quirky...that's us quirky :)Me and my sweet wonderful crazy boys!!!Those same boys with my sweet wonderful crazy hubby! :)We have a tradition of creating a "Jesus wall" each Easter as we remember the events of the last week of the Savior's life we place the picture

We Do Hard Things - Part II

2011-05-02T08:49:00.000-06:00

The good thing about evaluating yourself is the opportunity to grow, to change, to become what you know you can and should be. Knowing that I wasn't pushing myself to excellence in very many things helped me to see the so called "obstacles" or more like excuses that I was using to take the easy road. And if, "I do hard things", then is there any obstacle or excuse that can or should or could

We Do Hard Things - Part I

2011-04-19T10:13:00.000-06:00

I went running for the first time in well, who knows when, yesterday. One of the many things I love about running/walking is that it gives me time to ponder. No, I'm not an motivational tune mp3 carrying exerciser. Not that there is one thing wrong with it. I just prefer taking note of the beauty of the things around me and pondering.This first day back to a life of exercise caused me to

Cooking with Caprece - Warm Bacon Cheese Spread

2011-04-16T11:42:00.000-06:00

The first time I had this recipe was on a visit at Christmas time with Caprece and her still small but ever so sweet family. It was the holiday season and we were all the time whipping up yummy things to snack on while we visited with family and friends. This wonderful one landed on the New Year's Eve Menu - we love snack foods for New Year's Eve fixins. It was comfort food at its finest, warm,

The Master's Hand

2011-03-26T16:18:00.000-06:00

Yesterday my family had the most fortunate opportunity to visit the Carl Bloch exhibit at the BYU Museum of Art. It was an experience like no other... Although there were many of his works on display. There were three of his altar pieces that really, really, really touched me.The Doubting Thomas 1881When we entered the exhibit this painting was the first thing I saw. Right in front of me

Dreams

2011-03-14T01:47:00.000-06:00

I wouldn't say I am a "visionary woman", but I would say that at times in my life My Heavenly Father has communicated with me through a dream. I've never thought to record one until now. This one was meant to be remembered. I knew it the moment I awoke. This one was a gift, explaining painful trials of the past and something to hold on to while living through those of the future. It was light and

Out of the mouth of Babes

2011-03-13T08:17:00.000-06:00

While taking a nap recently I heard Ezekiel enter the room. He came to the bed and called for me..."Mama.", "Mama." but I being so tired and not wanting to get up just yet remained with my eyes shut tight. His solution naturally was, "COCKADOODLE DOOOO!" because if Mom won't listen to him she of course HAS to listen to the rooster!"

Cooking with Caprece - Chocolate Raspberry Torte

2011-02-19T07:52:00.001-07:00

Have you ever had raspberries, chocolate and cream together? Holy Moly Batman! It is heaven on a plate and I am ready to share this heavenly dessert with you, right now, but….First, I have a myth to dispel. See, my family has this idea, understandably, that because I post recipes on my blog that I love to cook! But, let me correct that misconception by stating now, for the record, that I

Creamy Pesto Pasta

2011-01-31T10:28:00.000-07:00

Have you been to Malawi's? Have you heard of Malawi's? Well, if you live in the Provo area chances are you have at least heard of it and if not well, you have now. Rodrigo and I had our first experience with the "Malawi Pizza Project" or"Pizza with a purpose" for our anniversary. We decided to give Malawi's a try. We ordered a pasta dish "Creamy Pesto Pasta" and a pizza "Island Retreat".

Look to God and live!

2011-01-25T07:01:00.000-07:00

"...The way is prepared, and if we will look we may live forever."Alma 37:46

Hootin' Annies

2010-12-08T13:05:00.000-07:00

image provided by Miss Diggy @ www.food.comIt has been forever since I posted any recipes but I have pledged to be more diligent beginning today.I wanted to start back with a recipe that has taken over breakfast in my home. A few weeks ago I had the wonderful opportunity of watching my nephews. When I asked Abe what he wanted for breakfast he first said scrambled eggs and pancakes and then he

Another Year of Firsts

2010-12-04T06:45:00.000-07:00

2010 has been another year of firsts for my boys - Joaquin...1st Soccer game and first GOOOOOOOOOOAL!1st Dance class - I have NO pictures of this first. I swear I intended to bring my camera each week so I could take pictures but I even forgot to bring it the day of the recital. shame on me...Bad Mommy :)1st Karate belt - (He is currently a yellow belt)1st Day of School - 1st Solo in sacrament

Thanksgiving Proclamation

2010-11-25T09:09:00.001-07:00

I am so grateful to live in a country that has raised leaders who still know from whom all blessings flow. We are beginning a tradition in our little family to read Lincoln's proclamation to set the tone for this glorious day of gratitude.By the President of the United States of America. A Proclamation. The year that is drawing towards its close, has been filled with the blessings of

My Big Helpers

2010-08-19T10:48:00.000-06:00

We had to sterilize the Nursery last night after finding a mouse on Sunday. It was lots of work and my two boys jumped right in to help. They sprayed down and wiped the big toys, helped clean the chalkboards and carry all the toys we had sterilized at home into the church from the car. I am cherishing these days when they complain for hugs and to help and to sit in my lap. I am so thankful

Secret Delight

2010-08-17T10:08:00.001-06:00

Yesterday I took Zeke with me for a quick grocery store run. I let him sit in Joaquin's car seat - one of his favorite things to do. I was driving along lost in thought when I happen to glance at him in the rear view mirror. He had this big grin plastered on his face and I wondered what was going on? I continued to watch him and he was looking around at the world as it passed and smiling with

Lessons Learned

2010-08-15T08:00:00.000-06:00

I think it is quite appropriate that this post follows the Karate one, don't you? Do you see that picture? Yes, that one. Look closely, very closely. Do you see those drops on Joaquin's shirt and other clothing? Yes, you're right it's blood. My boy got his first big fat bloody nose, inflicted by another boy while playing at the local Carl's Jr. play ground. See, Joaquin is a super social

The Next Karate Kid

2010-08-14T07:41:00.000-06:00

We put Joaquin in a couple of summer camps offered through UVU. He took dance and karate. He did well at both. However, when it came time to decide which or if any to continue the karate won hands down. I was so impressed with the instructors and all the things taught. See it isn't just how to break a board with your bare hands or do a round house kick but obedience, kindness, honesty,

The Best 4th of July ever!

2010-08-02T15:38:00.001-06:00

Celebrating the 4th has always been a big tradition in my family.I have fond memories of cook-outs that ended with fireworks and the belting of our favorite patriotic song…"God Bless the USA" by Lee Greenwood. Let me just say that Provo, Utah knows how to celebrate this spectacular holiday. With help from this city I think this holiday has moved in as a close third to Christmas. No, believe it

The Leader of the Band

2010-07-24T08:10:00.000-06:00

Joaquin loved music from the moment he entered this world. I first noticed It while in church…when we would sing the hymns he would look at me so intently with such a look of serenity. He loves for me to sing to him when he is upset and to help him fall asleep. But now even more he likes to make up his own songs. I often will hear him in his bed, as he is trying to fall asleep, creating tunes

Lazy Sunday Afternoon

2010-07-22T08:09:00.001-06:00

Rodrigo wanted a nap and the boys had other ideas…

Growing Up Is Hard to Do

2010-06-11T07:23:00.000-06:00

No excuses am I making but just telling the plain awful truth…Joaquin has slept with Rodrigo and I for the last year. It started out just occaisionaly when he was sick so I could keep an eye on him and give him his breathing treatments more easily throughout the night but then developed into him just plain ole going to bed with us. We have known for quite a while that we needed to break the

Imitation: The Sincerest Form of Flattery

2010-06-10T07:35:00.001-06:00

"Freeze!" This is Zeke's favorite way to insert himself into a conversation, calm tension, and basically stop us in our tracks. Currently, I am the Nursery Leader for our ward and Zeke is one of our many cuties. About a month ago I introduced a game. I cover my eyes and while they are covered the children run toward me. However, when I uncover my eyes they are supposed to "freeze". While

My talk given 3-14-2010 "The Gifts from the Holy Ghost"

2010-03-30T06:24:00.000-06:00

A few weeks ago Rodrigo and I gave talks in Sacrament. The assignment was The Gift of the Holy Ghost. I wanted to record for myself and my posterity the things I learned from this assignment. I am posting the talk that I gave below. I have scripture references listed but not the actual scripture in an attempt to encourage those who read it to seek for themselves after these things. Rodrigo

Easter Traditions - Christ's last week

2010-03-29T10:37:00.000-06:00

This year we are continuing our Easter tradition. First Rodrigo and I are rememborizing (remembering our previous memorization :) a portion of "The Living Christ" each of the 12 days. You can find the pretty little cards we use for this here. We are once again following the last week of the Savior's life beginning today with, "The Savior cleanses the Temple". We missed Palm Sunday yesterday

Something to Ponder

2010-03-18T13:15:00.000-06:00

The following is the quote of the week for my blog but it bears repeating as a post. Definitely worth regular pondering...The Lord's tender mercies are the very personal and individualized blessings, strength, protection, assurances, guidance, loving kindnesses, consolation, support, and spiritual gifts which we receive from and because of and through the Lord Jesus Christ...The Lord's tender

Spring is in the Air

2010-03-17T13:09:00.000-06:00

Well, we took a cue from a family we greatly admire...namely the Brock's and we have begun not only the physical preparations for our garden but the spiritual as well. We will be planning out our garden for the next 3 family home evenings. We've actually planted the peas - The USU extension has proven a wonderful resource as well as the following websites:http://www.mysquarefootgarden.net/http:

Cooking with Caprece - White Chicken Chili

2010-02-24T11:28:00.000-07:00

Caprece won a chili cook-off in her stake with this recipe and I have wanted to make it every since - nearly 4 years. Everyone is always asking if I have this recipe of hers and so here it is in all of it's glory. I do have to say that it is a KEEPER. My whole family loved it. We served it with sweet yellow cornbread. I loved the contrast between the spicey and the sweetness of the bread. Tip

1,729 miles, 3 days and 2 nights

2010-02-23T09:15:00.000-07:00

View Larger Map I had the wonderful fortune of helping my mother move to Utah. She began her journey in Myrtle Beach, SC and I met her in Kentucky. We loaded furniture and belongings, slept briefly and then began our nearly 1800 mile trip. Her excitement could barely be contained as she thought of actually living near all of her grandchildren. However, this joy didn't competely override her

Whatcha thinkin bout...?

2010-02-08T13:37:00.000-07:00

Sometimes I just have to wonder where my kids come up with their ideas...I mean what in the world are they thinking about? A few days ago Joaquin said to me out of the clear blue, "Mom let's go to a hotel." I said why? He tells me, "Because I don't like this place (referring to our home)." I responded with, "Really, why don't you like it here?" He says, "Because there is no red stuff."

Roasted Asparagus

2010-02-08T13:27:00.000-07:00

I know, I know, I said I would only post my sister's recipes but this one is sooo good I have to post it. Forgive me :)? Roasted Asparagus courtesy of Me Ingredients:1 bunch of Asparagus 1 clove of garlic, minced 1 tsp Kosher salt 1-2 TBS olive oil Pre-heat oven to 400 degrees. Rinse the asparagus. Take one stalk and break. Asparagus will naturally break at the point where the veggie is good

Cooking with Caprece - Glazed Carrots

2010-02-08T13:17:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I made a family favorite "3 envelope roast" and I was trying desperately to figure out to serve with it. I didn't want the same ole same ole. So I dove into Caprece's recipes and came across this one that looked delicious. It didn't disappoint although I think I like my friend Christina's recipe better. I also served wild rice and roasted asparagus that was out of this world good.

Cooking with Caprece - Homemade Pancakes and Syrups

2010-02-02T20:00:00.000-07:00

Waking up to the smell of sugar, maple, butter, and batter were a common and favorite experience on my visits with Caprece. She made a warm breakfast nearly every day of her life as mother and wife. Maybe because we grew up in a home of working mother and grandmother and rarely had a hot breakfast it spurred us to give this to our own families but whatever the reason it is a glorious thing! She

Cooking with Caprece – Spanish Rice

2010-01-27T08:00:00.000-07:00

Caprece was a member of a recipe club when they were in Logan, UT while Matt was completing his MBA. She acquired many of her best recipes from her participation in this club. Last night we had Carnitas and I knew this was just the recipe to compliment them. I have my own recipe for rice that I usually serve with Mexican dishes but this was a wonderful change and tasted superlicious! Recipe

All That Jazz

2010-01-26T13:35:00.000-07:00

As an undergraduate student at Utah State University I had the wonderful priveledge of watching the genius of Wynton Marsalis in person. I never really appreciated jazz until then but after that performance I was hooked for life. He was of course a natural choice for our family as we embarked on our study of this wonderful music. Here are a few fun facts about his life.He plays the trumpet.He is

2010-01-26T12:28:00.001-07:00

Cooking with Caprece

2010-01-25T13:19:00.000-07:00

Due to popular demand for my Sister Caprece's recipes I have decided to make Monday and Wednesday on my blog "Cooking with Caprece" days. I will do a feature post on one of her recipes. I will be limiting my recipe posts to her recipes on those two days for the remainder of this year. Today I will just direct you to the recipes of hers that I have already posted. The following were some of

Oatmeal is for fun not food!

2010-01-20T16:24:00.001-07:00

A few weeks ago I was cleaning in the back of the house and Joaquin came to get me. He wanted me to know Zeke had made some kind of mess and that he needed help. I thought I was going to scold him until I walked in and found him swimming in Oatmeal. All I could do was laugh and run get my camera. I just thank my lucky stars it wasn't honey or jam or some other sticky substance.

Italian Sodas

2010-01-20T08:00:00.000-07:00

I love putting a little something special in my hum-drum days. This week at book club our host treated us to Italian Sodas. Who knew something so simple could taste so utterly fabuloso! I, of course went out the very next day and got all the ingredients so we could enjoy something out-of-the-ordinary in our very ordinary snow bound days. The good thing is the ingredients keep so you can have

3 Gifts for Jesus

2010-01-19T15:52:00.001-07:00

In an attempt to steer clear of the commercialism of Christmas Rodrigo and I started a new tradition this year. Each member of the family will receive 3 gifts just as the Savior received from the kings or the magi. We as a family in turn give 3 gifts to Jesus for the year. We sat down for FHE and discussed what gifts Jesus would like us to give him. Joaquin even came up with one all on his own.

Cranberry Pot Roast

2010-01-19T08:00:00.000-07:00

Roast is one of my family's favorite meals but it can get boring really fast. I don't serve it as often as they would like in fear of us all becoming bored to death with it. However, I think this recipe helps prevent that. My family may love the fact that this recipe includes roast but I am crazy about it because it uses my crock pot. OH JOY! Little to no prep and my crock pot does the rest. Oh

What’s in a name?

2010-01-18T08:01:00.000-07:00

Did you know that my Great-Great-Great Grandfather was Abraham B. Benningfield. This is significant to me because my sister's oldest boy is named Abraham. Now, she didn't know this at the time she named him but it sure did fill me with spirit of Elijah when I discovered it while doing my family history. Interestingly enough I also discovered that Abraham had a son named Elijah(nicknamed "Lige")

Greek Salad Dip

2010-01-18T08:00:00.000-07:00

We have a tradition in our home that we try new recipes every year for our Christmas Eve dinner. While on my hunt for something new I came across this recipe that reminded me very much of an appetizer that I had eaten at California Pizza. I started craving it from the minute I saw the picture. I studied the picture carefully and then ran to the store purchased the ingredients and we ate it for

I Wear My Sunglasses at Night…and When I Brush My Teeth

2010-01-15T08:01:00.000-07:00

Zeke is a hard child to get a smile out of yet he is the one the gets me laughing the quickest. See what I mean….

The Master Recipe:Boule (Artisan Free-Form Loaf)

2010-01-15T08:00:00.000-07:00

First and foremost please, PLEASE, please don’t be intimidated by the length of this post. This is an excerpt from the book “Artisan Bread in Five Minutes a Day” It may appear daunting but let me tell you this book transformed my belief about making bread. See, I have always had a real fear of yeast. You have all heard the warnings...”Don’t get the water too warm!” “Don’t use water that is too

Copycat “Zuppas” Wisconsin Cauliflower Soup

2010-01-14T08:00:00.000-07:00

Have you ever been to Zuppas? Mmmmmm…just thinking about their menu gets my juices flowing. My favorite thing on their menu is the Wisconsin Cauliflower Soup. However, it is hard to find the time to get there…not to mention that it would be expensive to eat there regularly. So, I ask myself, "Why should I have to wait until I have time or money." I have eaten it enough that I should be able to

Winter Spinach Salad

2010-01-13T08:00:00.000-07:00

Salad is a staple in my home but sometimes it gets a bit boring this time of year with a lack of fresh summer produce. I was hunkering to change it up a bit and got just what I was looking for with this recipe. I found it at a favorite site of mine Your Home Based MomWinter Spinach Salad1 bunch baby spinach1/2 C craisins3 green onions, sliced1 green apple, cored and thinly sliced1/2 C pear

Jaden’s Beef and Brocolli

2010-01-12T08:00:00.000-07:00

Asian food is a family favorite but it isn't easy to make…at home anyway. I am always looking for good "at home" recipes. I mean there are plenty of recipes out there but I need to keep it simple…I have other things to do besides cook…believe it or not J PW came to my rescue yet again. This was a wonderfully simple and delicious recipe.Jaden's Chinese Beef and Broccoli (from The Steamy Kitchen

"Look Mommy I'm a Big Kid Now"

2010-01-11T15:45:00.001-07:00

I took my Joaquin shopping for tennis shoes a few days ago and you will not believe what size shoe he is in...go ahead guess...he is a size 1. Increible! He is barely 4 and in a size 1 tennis shoe. On his 4 year well visit last month he was in the 97 percentile for his height and weight. He was 46 inches tall and 46.5 lbs. He is really growing like a weed and the only down side for my big boy is

PW inspired Dinner Rolls

2010-01-11T14:56:00.001-07:00

When I saw these rolls at The Pioneer Woman I knew I must have them. See, as far as I am concerned anything, excepting liver and onions, cooked in a cast iron skillet is melt in your mouth yummy! Add to this that it was a recipe from The Pioneer Woman and I knew I couldn't go wrong. Just a few weeks before at a chili cook-off at the church someone had made rolls similar to these. I was dying for

Salmon “Martini”

2010-01-06T13:16:00.001-07:00

So my husband is a lover of all – well almost all - things of the sea. I am not. As we were planning our Christmas Eve dinner he kept showing me recipes of sea creatures and pleading for this to be our main dish. Being the wonderful wife that I am I of course said "NO WAY JOSE!". Now, I do enjoy a few sea creatures…shrimp, flounder, salmon and…yep that is about it. Compromise…seafood side dish. I

"Hot me Mama"

2009-12-30T08:43:00.000-07:00

One night as I was laying with Joaquin to help him get to sleep and He said "hot me mama". At first I wasn't sure what he was saying and even when I did understand him I wasn't sure what he meant...until he said "I am cold." He wanted me to warm him up :) A couple of days ago Rodrigo and Joaquin were talking and for some reason Rodrigo had stated that he was a boy (as in male not female). Joaquin

Christmas Gifts from the other side of the veil...

2009-12-29T09:13:00.000-07:00

Just before Christmas I was working on the very last of the boxes that needed unpacking...boxes of books and blankets. As I sorted through the books, trying to get rid of those we don't need or want I stumbled accross a very familiar three ring binder. My Sister Caprece made this notebook for me. At the time she made it I am sure she was thinking this would be a great way for me to travel down

HAPPY BIRTHDAY ELIJAH

2009-12-28T20:07:00.000-07:00

1-2-3-4 Potty Trained...At last!

2009-12-28T12:52:00.000-07:00

Best Christmas present ever...my newly turned 4 year old POTTY TRAINED! Merry Christmas Mama!

Christmas day at Temple Square

2009-12-26T21:30:00.000-07:00

The Curtis family has a tradition of going to Temple Square on Christmas day and this year we were invited. The North Visitor Temple is super cool for the kids and the adults. We love the Book of Mormon displays and Jersulem but best of all is the Christus. Then it was on to the lights and the nativity display with the Choir singing like Angels. What a great tradition! Thanks Curtis Clan :)

Noche Buena 2009

2009-12-26T20:29:00.001-07:00

Here is a sampling of our wonderful Christmas thanks to some of our Earth Angels.Thank you Uncle Matt and Aunt Cayr and family. We love you! Gracias Tios Anita, Paul, and Fernanda! Gracias Abuelos y Tia Vivi! Los Amamos!

Sugar Cookies “Precie” Style

2009-12-22T15:43:00.000-07:00

Years ago Caprece and I began a tradition of making sugar cookies during the holidays. We always involved the girls – Chancey, Lilah, and Livvy. We would roll them out, cut out fun holiday shapes, and bake them. Caprece would whip up a bowl of her specialty frosting and we would decorate them. Of course, we always kept a bit of the frosting and a few undecorated ones just for Matt. They kept

Spaghetti Sauce – Charla Recipe - Caprece Specialty

2009-12-22T13:00:00.000-07:00

(you gotta love the fine china - Spider Man Style :)The first time I ever tasted this sauce was at my Aunt Charla's home. At the time she was living in a mobile home on some property that my grandmother owned in Marianna, Florida. This sauce is just one of the many wonderful Memories I have of my Aunt Charla, affecionately known to me as "Charly". It was splendous, like no spaghetti sauce I had

3 envelope roast w/sweet potatoes

2009-12-20T08:45:00.000-07:00

I first tried this recipe back in April of this year and it quickly, no immediately, became a family favorite. I have tweaked it for our family and just last month my Mom added something that is a must have now with this recipe....Can you guess...yep, sweet potatoes. Who woulda thunk it? Our family likes sweet potatoes on the savory side instead of the sweet (we think they are sweet enough

FAMILY HOME EVENING...BUILDING A HOUSE. A HOUSE OF ORDER. EVEN A HOUSE OF GINGER :)

2009-12-19T15:23:00.000-07:00

We built a gingerbread house this last Monday for Family Home evening. The kids didn't disappoint! As expected they ate way more than they helped...although help they did and enjoyed every moment of it. I put the house together and then grabbed the camera so I could catch the decorating fun! I think it looks pretty good!

A brownie and a kiss

2009-12-14T08:47:00.000-07:00

Well, I am finally back. The house is completely unpacked and everything in its rightful place. I am fastidious about everything having its own place. I can't function in chaos. It feels good and I can finally exhale. With the exception of the loss of several of my beloved serving dishes, my spring form pan,, and two bundt pans, the move went quite smoothly. I am not sure where these items could

Bath, Bathe, or Bathing

2009-11-05T08:09:00.000-07:00

My yesterday started like any other...get the kids dressed, feed the kids breakfast, read my scriptures, pray, eat my breakfast, plan the day. Well part of those plans included helping my mother bathe my grandmother. We both decided to give her the luxury first and then to take care of ourselves. Mom had everything ready for Grandmama - towels, soap, warmth and clean linen and a change of

Time Marches On...

2009-11-04T13:10:00.000-07:00

In every conceivable manner, the family is link to our past, bridge to our future.-- Alex HaleyThis is a photograph of my Great-Grandmother (Mildred) and Great-Grandfather (Doc) Benningfield with my Grandmother (Frances - still living). I, like Nephi, know I was born of goodly parents. What a thrill and a blessing it is to have family. What a comfort it is to know these "great and noble"

Words to live by...for a 3yr old

2009-09-19T08:01:00.000-06:00

"Mommy, can I play outside?" "Yes, of course but put your shoes on first" "No, Mommy. I just want to wear my feet on!" "Mommy, I'm hungry" "OK, we are almost home." "But Mommy, what about the hungry place?" As we pass the golden arches :)As he is getting out of the bathtub and Mom is wrapping him in his towel..."Jacqi (this is what he calls my Mom...short for Grandmommie Jacqi)....Jacqi, I

A little of everything good - POTATO SALAD

2009-09-18T21:29:00.000-06:00

This salad is something I crave. I never thought of potato salad as a way to get your veggies but with this recipe you can definitely start working on your 4-6 servings a day! It has corn, green beans, peppers, carrots and onion. I'm sure I could have worked a few more in as well, right? It makes a great side to hamburgers or just about any grilled meat like carne asada hmmm! My mouth is

HIIIIYAAAHH!!! The Karate Kids

2009-09-11T10:56:00.000-06:00

Last night Zeke and Joaquin began playing on the bed. We had just finished family prayer and Zeke began attacking Joaquin. I was so blown away but the height he was getting with his leg that I just had to take a picture. I was laughing so hard watching them that it is a wonder I was able to get anything at all. What do you think...does Zeke have a future in martial arts?:) He is obviously

Chicken Broccoli Braid

2009-09-11T10:00:00.000-06:00

As I promised yesterday I am posting my Broccoli/Chicken or Chicken/Broccoli which ever you want to call it :) I have since made it again for my family. It is sooooo easy and sooooo yummilicous and soooooo pretty! You gotta add this one to your "tried and trues". The veggies are so colorful and that creamy chicken mixture looks hard to resist. What about that flaky buttery crust? As my Zeke

I Could Just Eat These!!

2009-09-10T12:13:00.000-06:00

Aren't babies legs and feet soooo cute. I love those little rolls of fat...I just want to eat them up:) I was taking a few pictures of Joaquin and Ezekiel watching a movie together on my bed when I was overcome with a wave of "these things are toooo cute". I had to take a picture. It's not just the legs either I want to eat those toes too :) Oh how I love babies. I was at a birthday party

Blueberry Key Lime Cheesecake

2009-09-10T12:09:00.000-06:00

A few weeks ago I had a luncheon for the sisters that I visit teach. I really wanted to do something to let them know how much I love and appreciate them. I was looking for a menu that was yummy and pretty. I found just that on the Woman’s Day Website and a few other places. Here is our menu: Broccoli Cheese Braid Spinach Salad Blueberry Key Lime Cheesecake Sparkling Grape Juice We

Nothing like a good book and comfy bed to read it in!

2009-09-03T10:01:00.000-06:00

I have a wonderful legacy of reading in my family. I remember my grandmother reading to me everynight as a child. My mother tells me of times when they were too poor to buy books for themselves but that didn't stop my grandmother...she made up wonderfully delicious stories for her children. I was the benefactor of her story telling as well...I'll always remember "The Little Pink Bear" and "

Lime-Balsamic Tomato Salad

2009-09-02T22:00:00.000-06:00

(Please Note** I had eaten half the tomatoes before I took the picture :)Who doesn't like a ripe juicy summer tomato? Oh, I know plenty of people who don't but, I am most certainly not one of them. I planted tomatoes myself this year and waited in anticipation for the yummy fruit only to be terribly disappointed. I found that my sweet little Zeke loved pulling the green fruit off the plants.

Are you sure about this?

2009-09-01T14:14:00.000-06:00

The other day I prepared Joaquin's toothbrush for him and asked him to please brush his teeth as I handed it to him. He looked at me thoughtfully and asked, "Are you sure about this?" I grinned very big (stiffling a giggle) and said yes I am sure. Again one night I asked him to turn off his video and told him it was time for bed. He didn't argue he just looked at me thoughtfully and asked, "

BAJIO CHICKEN CHILE QUESADILLAS

2009-09-01T14:08:00.000-06:00

Remember yesterday when I posted the Bajio Chicken Chile Salad. Well, here I am again with a wonderful surprise...the leftovers make a delicioso second meal. I love crock-pot recipes but I love even more leftovers that can make great second meals!!! The Bajio Chicken Chile Salad is just such a recipe. I used the leftover chicken from our chicken chile salad and made quesadillas. It was a

Tan Serio!

2009-08-31T09:25:00.000-06:00

Look at this muscle bound baby boy who would also be cute as a button but for the very serious look on his face. Rodrigo and I always talk about the the contrast between Joaquin and Zeke. While Joaquin is always quick to smile you are more likely to catch this expression on Ezekiel's face. We love the differences and celebrate them. It always amazes me how they come with a unique spirit all

BAJIO CHICKEN CHILE SALAD

2009-08-31T09:20:00.000-06:00

Remember the blog that inspired me to combine my blogs into one? Well she also had this yummy recipe that I tried recently. It is a copy cat recipe for Bajio Chicken Chile Salad. She says this recipe "came from Kara’s Kitchen Creations - a darling blog with lots of yummy recipes!".Recipe adapted from Kara's Kitchen Creations Bajio Chicken Chile Salad5 chicken breasts (I only used 4 large ones)

Hello Dollies

2009-08-30T14:53:00.000-06:00

While attending Utah State University my sister, Caprece, and I worked for the university catering department. It was a wonderful experience in which we learned a great deal about food and entertaining. It was also the perfect place for struggling college students because of the "free food" perk. Everyday we were permitted to eat what was termed leftovers. The leftovers were actually items that

Exquisite Things

2009-08-29T08:21:00.000-06:00

I dreamed about Caprece this week. I have only had two dreams with her since her death and in both at some point I am hugging her. Hugging her like the last time I hugged her at the airport in Salt Lake City. Holding on tight wishing that I didn't have to let go but knowing that I do. Usually waking from a dream such as this leaves me feeling a bit empty with a longing but, this time when I

Thanksgiving Point - Museum of Ancient Life ie...Dinosaur Park & The Animal Farm

2009-08-26T07:48:00.000-06:00

August has been “Two buck Tuesday’s” at Thanksgiving Point and Ezekiel gets in for free so I took the boys twice this month. The first time we went it was the very first Tuesday of the month and we didn’t get to the Dinosaur park because it was beyond crowded! We did however have a great time at the animal farm. We rode a horse-drawn wagon and played and petted the many different animals of

FRUIT PIZZA

2009-08-24T11:59:00.000-06:00

Caprece was a great collector of recipes. She was always on the look-out for a good one and she passed the bug on to me. Matt allowed me to copy all of her recipes a couple of years ago and they get plenty of use!This is a recipe from her collection. Once while visiting our cousin in Kentucy she served this light refreshing dessert and Caprece had to have the recipe. I decided to make it

IMAGINATION

2009-08-22T09:33:00.000-06:00

Yesterday Rodrigo and I were talking, Zeke was napping and we thought Joaquin was watching an episode of Looney Tunes. Rodrigo went to check on him but he wasn't where we thought he was and we began to search the house. He was nowhere to be found. Rodrigo said he had checked the balcony but I went to check again. The sliding glass door was closed which caused me to assume he wasn't

Zucchini & Carrot a Scapece (Antipasti) grazie a Giada

2009-08-21T16:59:00.000-06:00

This is the last of the new recipes I tried for our most recent bookclub meeting. Another suprisingly delicious antipasti. I had never had this before but it had the kind of flavors that one bite is just not enough of. This recipe is also from her "Everyday Pasta" book. It is pretty simple as well.Ingredients:6 TBS extra-virgin olive oil5 large zucchini (about 2 pounds), cut in 1/4-inch

Changes

2009-08-20T14:28:00.000-06:00

As some may have noticed by blog is undergoing some changes. The fringe benefit of having a husband who is a graphic/web designer is that on occaision I can coax a little help from him for my things. I told him what I wanted and he is working on it during this short break between semesters. I am excited to see the finished product as I have given him carte blanche. Scarey? Nope my husband is

RAVIOLI FRITO & ANTIPASTI - Giada De Laurentiis Style

2009-08-20T12:23:00.000-06:00

Remember I said for my turn hosting book club I went with an italian theme for the food. It was a surprisingly simple and delicious experience. I just turned to Giada. I speak of her as if she is my friend...actually I feel like she is...her cookbooks are very user friendly for those of us who aren't familiar with italian cuisine beyond spagetti and lasgna. I took all my recipes from her "

Flourless chocolate cake

2009-08-17T16:00:00.000-06:00

WARNING: THIS RECIPE IS ONLY FOR SERIOUS CHOCOLATE FANS!!You see I am a fan...a fan of Bakerella...a fan of Paula Deen...and a die hard fan of C.H.O.C.O.L.A.T.E. It was a wonderful chain of events inspired by chocolate. It began with Paula and her "Chocolate Celebration 2008" magazine which in turn inspired Bakerella which in turn inspired me. It was my turn this

Scissors...what was that did you say C.E.S.A.R.S.?

2009-08-12T17:06:00.000-06:00

OK so several weeks ago we went to get Rodrigo and Joaquin haircuts. Zeke had fallen asleep on the way so I said I would stay in the car with him while Rodrigo took Joaquin. As we had recently had a misunderstanding about how to cut Joaquin's hair with our former beautician(that is such a southern antiquated term, isn't it?: I'm thinking Dolly Parton "Steel Magnolias") Rodrigo and I made sure

1st Ever Haircut

2009-08-03T09:39:00.000-06:00

Zeke received his first ever haircut on Saturday August 1st, 2009. He was a good boy and only fussed a wee bit. Here are some before, during and after photos. He is quickly becoming...not my baby anymore :(BEFORE - I love the wisps from his baby hair but gotta let him grow up!DURING - Yeah for Cookie Cutters - The airplane was a great distraction! AFTER - As you can clearly see he was ready to

"Joaquin Super Swimmer" and Sidekick "Daddy Cool Swimmer"

2009-08-03T09:15:00.000-06:00

Rodrigo and Joaquin spent Saturday afternoon in the pool while Mommy took Zeke to get his first haircut. Joaquin was mesmerized the rest of the night with anything that had to do with swimming...especially Daddy's goggles!Here's Super Swimmer's Super Cool Sidekick

Perfectly Provident and All Children's Furniture.com

2009-07-21T11:41:00.000-06:00

All Children's Furniture is a store specializing in children's products. From toddler beds to toys, they have tons of great products to choose from, and right now you can win one of those great products over at Perfectly Provident.com. Win a Step 2 Flip and Doodle Easel Desk with Stool! There are multiple ways to enter. Hurry - ends July 31, 2009