August 31, 2011

ASL Class reminder

Hello Sisters!
The ASL class, taught by MMMMWAH (yeah, I know it isn't spelled that way...I just wanted to), starts tomorrow morning.

At 10:30 to be exact.

Okay, well, if you know me there is nothing exact about it. But in theory it is scheduled from 10:30-11:30. At my house. (if you need directions call me or email.)

The best part about the class? Totally free. And I am actually going to follow a curriculum this time. So it will be much more conversational than in the past. You can bring your kids. We have a built in tramp and a swingset. I am sure we have some toys laying around.

Just thought I would remind those of you who wanted to come!

Adios!

giveaways

I thought I'd offer these up on the blog before I try to find a place to donate them.

Free for the taking:
wood entertainment center - very sturdy and in great shape (ignore the blanket behind it)
large CRT TV - works just dandy
smaller CRT TV with built-in VCR - also in nice working order
I'm sure the entertainment center would fit in one of those mini-vans y'all have, so come on over and pick it up!  e-mail me at michechapman(at)gmail(dot)com
:)
Thanks!
Michelle C

August 29, 2011

Prom Dress?

Ventana Ward YW are having a fashion show for their Standard's Night: "Modest is Hottest".  Fun, huh?  Do you or someone you know still have a prom dress that is modest?  We are looking for sizes that would fit anywhere from a teeny 12 year old all the way up to a grown up 18 year old.  If you would be willing to let the YW use your dress, reply here or contact Anneliese M.  

Get a Jump on the Holidays!


First of all . . . My name is Bethany and I have a toy addiction.
Whew, now that that is out of the way . . .

I cleaned out my garage and craft room and have a lot of brand new toys that I bought and stashed never quite realizing how much I was accumulating. I am at the minimizing stage and would like to get rid of some of my excess. There are too many toys to list, but I will give a sampling:

Littlest Pet Shop (some rare) $3 for the 2-pack sets, $7 for 3-pack sets, $4 for plush
Zhu Zhu Pets, and Kung Zhu $3
Lego Harry Potter $7, $15
Lego Toy Story $5
Lego Mini-figure sets (Star Wars and Atlantis) $6
Star Wars transformers cross-overs $8
Polly Pocket sets $3
Captain Rex Helmet $7
Thomas the Tank Engine (wooden engines $5-7, Day at the Works playset $90)
Various Imaginarium dress-up costumes 3T (chef, doctor, horse-rider) $8
Sponge-Bob costume (5-7) $5
Barbie Thumbelina costume (4-5) $5
Transformer costume (5-7) $5
Southern Belle costume (5-7) $5

and more . . .

These prices are well below 50% off. I wanted to share this opportunity with you before listing everything on ebay. Please e-mail me to schedule a viewing. girlpowerjedi (at) hotmail (dot) come

August 28, 2011

Recipes from Recipe Group

Who knew there was such yummy food that you could make from Citrus.

Here are some of the recipes that we shared.

Susan did Lemon Bars.

Jenny did Chili-Lime Popcorn

I, Stef, made Orange Beef and Beans.

Renee made some yummy Lemon Chicken.  She also shared this recipe for Blueberry Scones with Lemon Glaze a while back. Super yummy!

Bethany made refreshing Orange Julius-es plus she gave us the recipe for her yummy Wanna-Be P.F.Chang's Lettuce Wraps. So good!

There were a few more recipes brought and once I get the recipes I will post them on here. (Hint hint, ladies. Send them in! Cookies and yummy salads.)

Next month we are doing Apples. Any recipe with apples. So, get to thinking. We will post more information as the time gets closer.

See ya next month!

August 26, 2011

Entertainment Book Coupons wanted


We are soccer buffs at the Rogers' house, and we would love to attend some of Lobo Womens and Mens soccer games....and take our soccer ambitious children with us. If any of you have the entertainment books for 2011, and don't plan on using the "coupons" that are in there for Lobo soccer, and wouldn't mind sharing them, could we use them? I can swing by and get them!



Thanks so much!
Andrea R.

August 25, 2011

Sunshine Generation


Do your kids love to perform?

Hi! My name is Andrea R., a stay-at-home mom in the Ventana Ward. I have my bachelor's degree from USU with an emphasis in music & dance theater. I have been working with kids in performing over the past 12 years. I absolutely love it! I love being part of the experience of helping kids build confidence. This is my 4th year teaching performing classes here in Albuquerque! I have turned my upstairs into a studio.

Have you ever heard of Sunshine Generation, a non-audtioned children's performing; a group for boys and girls ages 3-13? Our focus is on singing, dancing, full-showmanship, self-confidence and fun! We develop talents and learns skills in the performing arts in a way like no other!
Our program consists of affordable classes taught once a week where the children learn routines to Popular, Broadway, Country, and Old Favorite songs. The material is professionally prepared and expressly picked according to your children’s interest and ability level. We then perform for the community on average of once a month. (perfomances are optional) Last year we performed at the Civic Plaza Christmas Festival, Tierra Antigua Elementary School, Cottonwood mall with the Easter Bunny, Mother's Day Tea Party, Santa Ana Star Center, Sr. Citizen center, Rio Rancho Parade, and more....)

Call or e-mail for a free trial class! Andrea 715-2841 or email albuquerquesunshinegeneration@gmail.com

$36 a month

Tuesdays: 1st class starts August 30th
5:45-6:45 ages 11-13 “Sound Station”

Wednesdays: 1st class starts August 31st
3:00-3:45 ages 3-5 “Sunbeam”
4:00-5:00 ages 6-8 “Sundance”
5:00-6:00 ages 9-10 “Solar Sound”





August 24, 2011

zumba

Zumba tomorrow @ 6:30pm
Zumba friday @ 8:45am

Busy Mom's Book Club: A Dog's Purpose

Wasn't "The Help" a great book! I haven't seen the movie yet. But good pick ladies!

 The book for this next month is a good one. I read it and LOVED it!!!


This is the remarkable story of one endearing dog’s search for his purpose over the course of several lives. More than just another charming dog story, A Dog’s Purpose touches on the universal quest for an answer to life's most basic question: Why are we here?
Surprised to find himself reborn as a rambunctious golden-haired puppy after a tragically short life as a stray mutt, Bailey’s search for his new life’s meaning leads him into the loving arms of 8-year-old Ethan. During their countless adventures Bailey joyously discovers how to be a good dog.
But this life as a beloved family pet is not the end of Bailey’s journey. Reborn as a puppy yet again, Bailey wonders—will he ever find his purpose?
Heartwarming, insightful, and often laugh-out-loud funny, A Dog's Purpose is not only the emotional and hilarious story of a dog's many lives, but also a dog's-eye commentary on human relationships and the unbreakable bonds between man and man's best friend. This moving and beautifully crafted story teaches us that love never dies, that our true friends are always with us, and that every creature on earth is born with a purpose.

It really is a great book. Kellie H. is hosting this book.
It will be Thursday,  Sept 8 at 12:30pm.
Bring something to share for lunch and questions to share!
You're going to love it.

PS:  If you finish this book fairly quickly, which I know you will, the book for October is "Wild Wood Dancing" by Juliet Marillliar.

Looking for a new doctor

I am looking for a new endocrinologist. I don't care which side of town I go to. If anyone has a recommendation I would owe them a BIG favor. :) Thanks! jaezbrown(at)gmail(dot)com or I my number is in the Ventana Directory. Angela B.

Crib Claimed

That was fast! The crib has been claimed. Thanks, Renee'

Free crib

It's free if you want it, I'm donating it on Sat. if no one claims it. I'm in the ward directory or email me at runningkitty{at)gmail(dot}com

August 23, 2011

recommended reads, book club schedule

I took notes of the books that people were recommending at the last meeting and thought I'd put them someplace permanent so they wouldn't get lost.

Calico Captive by Elizabeth Speare historical fiction French/Indian War 1750ish- excellent read recommended by Michelle C.
Founding Mothers; The Women who Raised our Nation by Cokie Roberts- non-fiction digging into the women and mothers who influenced the founding fathers, recommended by Delight P.
The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks by Rebecca Skloot, biography of the 1st woman diagnosed with cervical cancer in the 1950's and how her tumor's cells have been used in labs worldwide, FASCINATING
The Forgotten Garden by Kate Morton, a gripping mystery- page turner, excellent read recommended by Sara R.

4 Newberry recommendations:
Witch of Blackberry Pond by Elizabeth Speare
Wednesday Wars by Gary D. Schmidt
Island of the Blue Dolphins by Scott O'Dell
Number the Stars by Lois Lowery

FYI this book club meets the 3rd Thursday of each month at 7:30 PM. The next meeting is discussing "Unbroken" by Laura Hillenbrand, September 15th, 7:30 PM, Melissa S's backyard, discussion led by Debra R.

October 20th- discussing "Blink" by Malcolm Gladwell at Chelsie L's house, discussion led by Michelle Chapman

Craft night! Come one, come all!













Okay, so do you ever feel like your house is not how you want it to look and so you never have people over? Or do you ever feel like you can never make any activities and you are always out of the loop? Well I do. I do. I do. I do. Despite my empty walls and ugly paint I am hosting a craft night at my house so I can finally make an activity in our ward!! Yeah, a great excuse for social hour!


I made these hair bands at girls camp. They are simple to make and look really cute for babies, little girls, teenagers, or Mommies (it all depends on what colors you use). I wish I had other examples, I obviously made all of mine for my 7-year-old. But the teenagers at camp had some adorable ones that looked very stylish. Please come and make some with us even if you have all boys because you can make some for someone else! Besides, this is a fun project to get creative with.


What you need to bring:


* Several pieces of scrap fabric at least 1 in x 24 in length. Small prints and solids are great. Bring some to share as well! (You'll need 6 strips of fabric per headband.)


* Laces and tulle make great bows, however you don't need them. If you look closely at the center of my orange flower on top of one of my headbands is fabric twisted into a circle. Those twisted circle flowers are adorable alone on the headband as well.


* hot wax glue gun


*one or two pieces of felt that match your fabric (it doesn't really have to match if you don't have any that does, we will try to cover them up!)


* hair ties


* AND most importantly, a yummy treat to share



When: September 7 @ 8:00pm - stay as late as you want!


Where: my house, 7844 Chaco Mesa Loop



If you want bring your boxes of scrap fabric to share or just bring what you want to work on. Please call and let me know if you are coming. Rachael Boyle @ 899-2509

Tomorrow, No kids at home during the day?

For those of you who are without kids at home during the day (don't worry everyone will get there one day) there will be a potluck lunch at my house, Erin S, 11 am- about 1:30 on Wednesday, August 24th  I have tried to call everyone I can, talk to those you know in case I miseed anyone.  Sorry for the late notice, the start of the school year is CRAZY!

Help for Paradise Hills Ward!

I got a phone call from a sister in the Paradise Hills Ward and she said that one of their sisters needs some help. The sister has a son who is in kindergarten at Alice King. She knows that a lot of people in our ward have kids that go there. Her son will get done early on Fridays (If I recall correctly, I think it was Fridays), and she has no where for him to go. She wants to see if there is someone who has kids that go there who can take her son with them Friday, and she can pay them. If you are interested and can help her out please contact the sister inquiring, Andrea, at andreathom@gmail or you can call 505-899-9428.
Today's Living Social deal is 40$ to spend at Azuma Sushi and Teppan for only 20$. I have been wanting to try this place. Anyone know if it's good??? It's won a ton of awards in Albuquerque

Azuma Sushi & Teppan
$40 to Spend on Food and Drink
Albuquerque may not be known for samurais, pachinko, or sumo -- and the name itself is a challenge for any haiku hopeful -- but in this land of enchantment the Japanese cuisine at Azuma Sushi & Teppan can duke it out with the finest eateries across the country. With today's deal, get $40 worth of food and drink at this local favorite for $20. Voted Best Sushi in 2008, 2009, and 2010 by readers of Albuquerque The Magazine, Azuma specializes in slicing, wrapping, and rolling precisely cut pieces of melt-in-your-mouth fish. Bite into the Azuma roll, chock-full of yellow tail, salmon, tuna, crab, and avocado; or try a selection of fresh sashimi. If raw isn't how you roll, opt for a bowl of udon noodles, crispy tempura, or a tantalizing teppan dish festively fired on a grill right before your eyes. Squeeze your chopsticks around this deal, and fill your belly like a yokozuna.




Go here to check it out!

August 22, 2011

Piano for Professional Moms


Class begins tomorrow at 10:30! I have an extra set of materials if you are still interested. Please let me know as soon as possible. Thanks!

girlpowerjedi(at)hotmail(dot)com

Cleaning out the garage...

I've got some stuff that has been sitting around forever, and it needs a new home. Let me know if you're interested in anything!


Evenflo double stroller - $15

Samsung microwave - $10

Graco stroller - excellent condition - $40


Large rug (6.5' x 9.5' I think?) - $60


Charcoal grill - $10




August 20, 2011

Beautiful Baby Girl--Please Donate if You Can!!!

This beautiful baby girls name is Ruby Jane Taylor. I don't know her or her family personally, but Ruby passed away recently from liver failure and I have been touched by her story. The family (who is LDS and from southern California) has acquired massive medical bills due to treatment for this sweet baby girl. An auction is being held in Ruby's honor to help the family with their expenses or you can simply donate a few dollars to help out if you don't want to bid on an item. Go here for the auction site and here to read about her life.

August 18, 2011

Zumba Friday

Amanda will be teaching a Zumba class tomorrow (Friday) morning at the church at 8:45. We are trying to get classes Wed and Fri mornings and Thursday evenings. See you there!!!!!

Camry for sale- sold!

We are selling our Camry to get ready for baby!  Here is the craigslist post if you are interested...


-Kristie L. foreverfamilee at gmail dot com

August 17, 2011

ZUMBA

Zumba tomorrow @ 6:30pm! All are invited and remember the class is free. :)

See ya!

Book of Remembrance- Free

I found a "Book of Remembrance for the Latter-day Saint Girl" amongst all my stuff when I was packing.  It's totally "old school", but the pages are in like-new condition.  The cover shows aging/yellowing.  The pages are legal-sized.  It's basically a fill-in-the-blank kind of scrapbook/journal thing, with pages for birth, blessing, baptism, first day of school, first talk in church, etc., plus family tree, vacations, etc. 

I don't know what to do with this.  If nobody wants it, it will be recycled.  So let me know if you are interested.

Wendy B
bendywird at gmail dot com

August 16, 2011

Free Basil!

I have too much basil in my garden! I have 8 plants that are well over a foot tall, full of wonderful smelling basil leaves. I can't use all of it...even though I have been making a delicious pesto sauce and freezing it. If you want some basil please come on by and pick some! Give me a call...that's my cell phone number in the directory. Or reply here!

The Help the movie for Wednesday


Anyone wanting to see The Help at the Cottonwood Mall Wednesday 8-17 at 7:05 please come! Want to carpool? Call Susan T. or Debra R. or leave a comment below. See you there!!!

Busy Mom Book Club: The Help


This is a re post from a few weeks back! This is coming up on Thursday at 12:30. Hope to see you all there. Feel free to bring some lunch items to share.

In an attempt to be less confusing as to which book club we are talking about, we are naming this book club "The Busy Mom Book Club." Don't laugh.

Next month, Susan Turner has chosen "The Help" by Katherine Stockett. This book is coming out in the theatres soon, if it isn't already there. Here is a synopsis:

The Help is set in the early 1960s in Jackson Mississippi, and is told from the perspective of 3 people, Aibileen, Minny and Skeeter. Aibileen is an African-American maid who cleans houses and cares for the young children of various white families. During the time covered in the novel, she has a job looking after a toddler girl named Mae Mobley, her first job since her own 24-year-old son was killed in an on-the-job accident.

Minny, Aibileen's confrontational friend who frequently tells her employers what she thinks of them, which has resulted in her being fired from 19 jobs. Her most recent employer was Mrs. Walters, mother of Hilly Holbrook. Hilly is the social leader of the community, and head of the Junior League, the lady you do not want to cross in Jackson Mississippi. She will become the nemesis for all three main characters in the book.

Miss "Skeeter" Eugenia Phelan is the daughter of a prominent white family that owns a large cotton farm that employs many African-Americans in the fields, as well as in the household. Skeeter has just finished college and come home with big dreams of becoming a writer. However, her mother only wishes for Skeeter to get married, something that does not particularly interest Skeeter. Upon coming home Skeeter discovers that Constantine, the maid that raised her, has suddenly quit, and moved to Chicago with no word to Skeeter. This was unusual since Constantine had been writing to Skeeter the entire time she was at college, and had promised Skeeter a surprise when she got home. This is a mystery that nobody will discuss with Skeeter. The Help reveals Skeeter's personal struggles with her friends and family throughout.

During the weekly bridge club that Skeeter attends with Hilly, Mrs. Walters and Elizabeth, Abileen's employer, Hilly discusses her belief that all homes should have separate bathroom facilities for the "colored" help. This discussion has an impact on Skeeter. She is awakened to the realization that her friends' maids are treated so different from the way a white person is treated, and wants to reveal the truth to the world from the maids' perspectives by writing a book about it.

Written in the first person from the perspective of Abileen, Minny and Skeeter, the struggles Skeeter experiences to communicate to the maids and gain their trust is revealed, as well as the issues of overcoming long standing barriers in customs and laws by all of the characters. The daily lives of the Southern housewife, and the household maid during the early 1960's in Mississippi are explored. The dangers of undertaking writing a book about African-Americans speaking out in the early 60's are constantly hovering over the 3 ladies. The ultimate results are heart breaking at times, and humorous at times, and unpredictable.

Can't wait.

This month, we are meeting at Susan's house, Aug 18th at 12:30pm. (Thanks to everyone being willing to switch days and times so that I can come.) We know this is the same day as the other book club, but we figured it was doing the day so there would be no conflict.

Hope to see you all there.

Southwest flight deals

http://travel.southwest.com/specialoffers/offerDetails.html?id=73680305&RMID=L_110816_CNS_A&RRID=bW9yc3lkQGdtYWlsLmNvbQ..&src=MAILCNSTUES00000A110816

August 15, 2011

the scoop on teachers

For anyone's kids who have gone to VRES, do you know anything about Ms. Fry, Ms. Wisehart or Ms. Ray? My kids got them and I'd love to hear some other parent's reactions.
FYI My kids have had Mr. Johnson, Ms. Roberts, Ms. Martinez, Ms. Kettler, Ms. Townsley and Ms. Van Patten if you're wanting to chat about them.
Thanks- Melissa
melissa dot lee dot spencer at gmail dot com

August 14, 2011

Seamstress job

I have a friend who is the manager at the Buckle and is in need of hiring a new Seamstress. He wants to have her hired by Wednesday. The job is one day a week (Monday I think) for 5 hours. He will pay around $10.50/hour. The job is mostly Denim work and consists of sewing on lose or missing buttons, zippers and other small things like that. They have a room in the store for the seamstress and two industrial sewing machines to work with. If customers need more work done that the Buckle does not offer, they will allow the seamstress to hand out their business card. If you or someone you know is interested, please email me (Jessica Pickett -in ward directory) or call before Wednesday.

book club meeting Thursday PM

We'll meet on Thursday night at my house (weather permitting) for book club.
We don't have a discussion leader for "A Tale of Two Cities" yet and after talking with several people I am curious as to who has read the book. Is anyone willing to lead the discussion? If not, we'll just meet to chat and possibly plan some more books (and discuss if we should keep "Classics" in our genre lineup).
Melissa S.

August 13, 2011

A list of what to do around Albuquerque from now through October

I compiled a list of things to do around Albuquerque for the Center for Young Adults a while ago. I pulled from every newspaper, flier, website, and whatever else I could get my hands on. I've been meaning to post this in case it would help someone who was caught scratching their head wondering what to do on the weekends with their hubby or kids. This list has a variety of activities to do around Albuquerque (it is not everything that Alb. has to offer either). Perhaps some ideas are great, perhaps some aren't exactly your type. But if at least one calls out to you then it was worth it!


Copy and paste this link into your browser and enjoy!


https://docs.google.com/leaf?id=1wYgkbm8teL0NEeMyX5ySXN8zxcQ0_feYgQkuKq3v3SXoZiiAU5LTxNQqb4LH&hl=en_US

LDS Fiction Purge

Since I was twelve, I have been collecting LDS Fiction.  I am moving and decided to thin out my collection.  I have about 150 LDS novels.  If you are interested in perusing my collection, please let me know.  I'd love to sell them to a good home for $1 a piece.  
Wendy B. (bendywird at gmail dot com)

Citrus Delight


Join us for a citrus delight recipe exchange. Make something yummy using citrus, and bring it to Bethany's home:

August 25
11:00-12:30

Be prepared to post your recipe (though I must admit, I still haven't posted the last two. Oops!)

August 12, 2011

Kindergarten Teacher

Hey, Bailey goes to Kindergarten this year... her teacher is Pamela Townsley... Has anyone's kid had her before? Is she good? Bailey is already reading quite a bit and I don't want her to be bored or not challenged. I just didn't know if anyone had more information. I meet her on Tuesday morning, but I wanted to check here first.

Tiffany Winters

August 11, 2011

Cricut

I was wondering if there was anyone in the ward had a cricut that I could use for the senior primary.  If you have one that you are willing to share, please email me, Becca, at rebecca{dot}pinon@gmail{dot}com.  Thank you!

August 10, 2011

Zumba is back on for Thursday's

Zumba tomorrow @ 6:30pm @ the Ventana Chapel. See you there. :)

August 9, 2011

Zumba tomrorrow!

Hi Ladies,

Just thought I would confirm that we will have Zumba tomorrow morning at 8:45 at the church building!

See you there!

20.00 Futon

I got bean bags for my kids and we need the space, so this futon has to go. It is cover with full sheet that I did not spent much time putting it on. The original cover can be wash (it is little duty right now) but I found easy to wash the sheet. The matress is quite comfy.
doramthomas@gmail.com
Posted by Picasa

August 3, 2011

Co-Op Preschool

Hello ladies,
I am putting an all call out for anyone looking to participate in a co-op preschool with a small group of LDS moms in Ventana, Volcano Cliffs, and Ladera ward.  The group is for 3-4 year olds with mommies who are willing to teach on a rotating schedule with all the other moms in our group.  We are looking to keep our group size between 6-8 kids meeting 2 mornings a week for 2 hours each session.  To participate, you must be willing to teach one week (2 sessions) in your home every 6-8 weeks depending on how many kids we have.  This is a low key setting to introduce both some basic fundamental skills and social skills.  If you are interested please email or call me and I can answer any questions you might have.  We are going to set a time next week to plan out our calendar and curriculum for the year so contact me before Tuesday 8/9.  Thanks
Lisa Burk
898-0838
mammaburk at gmail dot com

No time for practice? Hidden talent? Yearning to learn a specific song?



Throughout this course, we will learn:

* how to break songs into manageable chunks
* how all of those chords, scales and arpeggios your piano teacher made you practice when you were seven actually apply to music
* how to practice a song in five-minute sections
* how to select a song that will challenge you at your current level
* which composers you actually enjoy listening to

How it works:
We will meet one day, every four weeks from 10:30-12:00. The first 30 minutes will be spent going over difficult sections, picking compositions, etc in a group setting. At 11:00, we will have a technique lesson that will improve our practice skills for the next four weeks. From 11:30-12:00, we will play our songs that we have been working on for each other.

Workshop cost:
$50
Class dates:
August 23, September 20, October 18 and November 29
.
If these dates don't work for you, let me know.

Are little ones allowed? Yes, as long as they will be content being in the same room, but not on your lap.

Did I mention treats? Any performance should have something yummy afterwards, shouldn't it??

Please e-mail me at: girlpowerjedi@hotmail.com by August 15 if you are interested.

EASY Homemade Freezer Salsa

(This is going to be another dorky post but I am so excited about how easy this is that I felt the need to share.)

Even though I wasn’t born here I like to think of myself as a native New Mexican. I have lived here for 25 years and I love salsa. I am picky about my salsa and if it has high fructose corn syrup in it or is made in New York that is just unacceptable. I am growing 8 tomato plants this summer because last year I ran out of homemade salsa in November (also a major bummer!) There are problems with making your own salsa, though, and I think that I’ve found a way to fix these problems .

Problem #1) If you’re growing your own tomatoes they’re never ALL ripe at the same time and it’s hard to amass a large enough bunch to make doing your own salsa worth your time.

Problem #2) Canning your salsa is very time consuming and uses a LOT of hot water, heat for boiling jars, etc. It’s not very economical this way.

Problem #3) My jars of salsa would frequently go bad after 2 weeks in the fridge (and that frankly makes me want to cry!)

Solutions: Freeze your tomatoes whole until you’ve got enough for a LARGE batch of salsa (doesn’t affect the texture or quality of the salsa- I tried it this morning and can’t stop eating it!) When they thaw, the skins slip off easily (eliminates boiling your tomatoes to get them off). Also, skip the bottling and put them in snack size Ziploc bags. Then freeze them until you’re ready to eat a bag at a time. Less waste, less mess, less headache, more delicious salsa. What more could you ask for?

Homemade Freezer Salsa
1 medium onion, chopped
3 medium garlic cloves
2-3 jalapenos to taste, chopped
2 tsp salt to taste
8 large tomatoes (or 16 medium Romas)
8 oz can tomato sauce or 4 oz tomato paste
1 tsp lemon juice

Freeze your whole, washed tomatoes until you’ve got enough for a batch of salsa (or two or three!). Pull them out of the freezer, let them thaw on the counter for 1-2 hours. When they’re still pretty frozen cut off the green tops. Then, when they’re less frozen squeeze the tomatoes out of their skins into a nice big pot. Discard the skins. I like my salsa chunky so I used my potato masher and just squashed the tomatoes until they looked right. If you like yours more smooth, run them through the food processor first. Add the rest of the ingredients to the pot and boil down to the consistency you like. (Use tomato paste for more a robust tomato flavor and thicker consistency, use tomato sauce for a lighter flavor and thinner texture.) You can experiment by adding different peppers, cilantro, more onion, garlic, etc. When you’re happy with the flavor and texture let it cool in the pot. Then ladle into snack sized Ziploc bags and freeze. When you’re ready to eat it, throw a bag or two in the fridge for 2-3 hours. You can put leftover thawed salsa in the fridge for a few days but it will spoil faster than the traditional methods. Eat up! I’ve had it stay good in the freezer for MONTHS. If you’re concerned about freezer burn just double bag them and then put them in a big freezer Ziploc. They don’t take up much space and it’s a taste of summer in December when you can still eat your homemade salsa.

Recipe from the kitchen of Melissa Spencer & Sandy Henrie

Books and ASL Class

Hola Sisters!

You all ready for school to start? I am...in a feel guilty kind of way. I am dying to get my routine/schedule back. And just a little quiet.

So two things.

First, I finished "The Help" and so if anyone wants to borrow it, let me know. I couldn't put it down so it was a good thing that my family was out of town this week. Otherwise I would have simply ignored them.

Secondly, I am going to be starting another ASL class starting in September. I think this time I am going to be following a curriculum that I found so it will be more of a conversational ASL class. I want to make sure that I am teaching you things that you can use to talk to my husband any Deaf person.

I have either Tuesdays or Thursdays to pick from at this point. If you are interested, email me (stef.burns at gmail.com) to let me know and tell me which day you prefer. It will be in the morning at 10am. At my house. It will be a 10 week course. I am not going to charge anything, unless you want copies of the pages I am going to be using. If you do, then maybe $10 would cover that cost. But we can talk about that.

So let me know if you are interested. In the book and/or the class.

Enjoy your last 2 weeks!! Then FREEDOM!!  Ahem. I mean. We will miss them dearly.

August 2, 2011

Zumba/ Salsa Class Tomorrow!

Hi Ladies, 
Just wanted to let you all know that Lulu Thomas is teaching a Salsa class tomorrow morning at the church!

8:45 AM

Thanks Lulu!

Drying rack?

Anyone have a rack that they use for drying clothes outside that I can borrow? I'm getting baby clothes ready, and I'm trying to get those awful yellow stains out, and I've heard that the sun works wonders. I can order something off amazon, but I don't want a wet load of laundry sitting around for 2-3 days! Comment here or let me know at chelsey DOT jorgensen AT gmail DOT com.

August 1, 2011

Serger????

Hi Ladies,

I am looking for a used Serger.  If anyone knows of someone who is looking to sell one or a place that sells used ones for less expensive, PLEASE let me know! 

Thanks,
Kellie W. 
kelliejh(at)yahoo(dot)com

croquet sets needed

The Stake YW presidency is planning an amazing weekend for our laurels, and we are looking for some croquet sets to borrow. Does anyone have a set or know of anyone who does? Please contact Sacha at sbikhazi (at) gmail (dot) com. Thanks!

Can I borrow?

Hi Ladies, I am leaving to girls camp on Wednesday morning. But I still need a few more items if any of you are willing to let the YCLs and me borrow. We need: boas and walky talkies (with their chargers). Yes a strange combination... but it is girls camp. We do strange things- okay the YCLs are doing a flashmob in the dining hall. We need the boas to jive to "Girls Just Wanna Have Fun".
Thanks a million!
rachaelboyle(at)gmail(dot)com