Cookie Exchanges/Busy Mom book Club

'Tis the season of busyness. So I am already posting December's Recipe exchange and the Busy Mom Book club. Why am I posting so early? It is because we are combining them next month. So save the date!

When: Thurs, Dec 8th

Time: 12:30pm

Where: Jenny Ch.'s house

What to bring: Recipe Exchange--any Christmas goodie (cookies, bars, toffee, truffles, fudge, etc)

                           Busy Mom Book club--Your favorite Christmas book--wrapped (we will be exchanging them)

You ask, well, I don't go to the book club, but still want to come. Your in luck. Just because you don't go to the book club, doesn't mean you can come. Just bring your goodies to exchange. For those in the book club, bring the book. Now for the talented ones that will be doing both, bring your goodies AND your book.

Since we will be exchanging cookies, I need a count of how many people want to participate. Please  send RSVP to me, jennifer dot childers at gmail dot com by DEC 1st. If you have any questions, comments, concerns, please refer to the above mentioned email and I will respond back. Thanks!

Preschool Busy Bag Swap

Hi ladies! I would like to get a group together to host a Preschool Busy Bag Swap.

What is a busy bag?

A busy bag is a self-contained activity geared toward preschoolers that fits in a gallon sized ziploc bag and can be stored easily. The activity is easily transportable and no additional supplies should be needed to be added to the bag.

Why make busy bags?

These are a great way to keep a toddler/preschooler busy for 15-30 minutes at a time. I have made 15 bags this fall and I grab a couple and take them to appointments, church or use them at home while I nurse my baby. My daughter loves them and I like that she is learning something and staying busy. These are perfect for the upcoming winter months when we will be inside a lot more.

What are the group guidelines?

1. Make 15 of your busy bag activity (the same activity 15 times)
2. Activity should be geared to the preschool crowd - 2.5-5 year old
3. Activity should be gender neutral
4. Activity needs to fit into a gallon sized ziploc bag
5. Paper pieces should be laminated (I have a laminator I can lend out but you will need to provide your own laminating sheets)
6. Busy bags should be self contained and resuable - nothing should have to be added to the bag over time
7. Busy bag should be convenient and not require any major set up or clean up (no paint, liquids, sand, etc.)
6. There is a spending cap of $20 for all 15 activities (feel free to do it for less though!)

What is the deadline?

I would like to swap bags on December 8. These would be a great Christmas gift for your preschooler!

Where can I get activity ideas?

There are TONS of busy bag ideas out there online. A lot of these links include printables/directions to make the activity. Here are a few links to activity ideas

http://therigneys.wordpress.com/2011/08/26/toddler-busy-bag-swap/
http://moneysavingmom.com/tag/busy-bag-ideas
http://www.mydeliciousambiguity.com/search/label/Busy%20Bags
http://theprincessandthetot.blogspot.com/2011/07/toddler-busy-bags.html
http://www.playcreateexplore.com/2011/10/busy-bags.html

How to sign up?
Please leave a comment on this blog post that includes your email address. I will take the first 14 people who sign up making it a total of 15 people. PLEASE only sign up if you are able to create your bags by the December 8 deadline. I will email the group members once I have 14 participants and we can hammer out some details and share our activities to avoid duplications.

Please call or email with additional questions
Monique F. (Ventana Ward)

great free concert Saturday

Do you love music? Would you like to expose your kids to more music? Are you looking for something to do this Saturday night?

You are officially invited to come and enjoy the Stake Fall Music concert this Saturday night at 7 PM at the Stake Center Cultural Hall. It will last about an hour, is family friendly (bring the kids), will have great music from all skill levels and many different instruments, and is free. Also, there will be ice cream sundaes for the refreshments.

Hot Stone Massage on Groupon

If you have never had a hot stone massage, you need one!!!! I bought this last time it was on Groupon about a year and a half ago. It was WONDERFUL! Tell your husband to buy you this for Christmas. My husband just did and he doesn't even know it yet! Go here to check it out on Groupon. I suggest the 60 minute hot stone massage. The 90 minute was too long for me. Enjoy!

Campaign Meeting

From Brother Jon Barrie:

You are invited to attend a campaign meeting at Brother Barrie's home on November 11th at 6:30pm. We will show a short video featuring President Benson on government and then discuss campaign strategies. We will try to assign campaign duties to any who would be willing to volunteer their time and efforts. Please feel free to attend even if you can't assist in the campaign because we will be talking about the major issues affecting our nation.

7316 Williamsburg NW (The Trails) 505-999-2118

an awesome opportunity to help local children

The student council at Tierra Antigua Elementary is doing a really great service project this week.  They are collecting clothes to donate to the APS clothing bank.  They are hoping to fill a hot air balloon trailer with clothes by November 10th.

For those who aren't aware:
The APS clothing bank is a place where students from APS schools can go to receive clothes to wear to school.  It is run by the local PTA council.  Only children who are referred by their school can receive these clothes.  They TRULY go to kids who do not have anything suitable to wear to school (which is actually a pretty high number in some areas and yes, there are several students from our local schools here in Ventana who do use the service too.)  When you think about "suitable to wear to school," we're talking about kids who come in clothes that are many sizes too small, or may literally only have one set of clothing and come in the same thing every day for weeks, often without washing.  I believe when they are referred, they are given two complete sets of clothing.

The APS clothing bank has made a plea to the community to help soon.  Otherwise, they will have to shut their doors before winter break.  They are nearly empty.  They are in special need of coats and jeans from sizes pre-K to high school (adult sizes.)  They also need other gently used clothing in those sizes, as well as clean and well cared for stuffed animals, backpacks, and toys.  Socks, shoes, and underwear MUST BE NEW.  For sanitary purposes, they do not accept used socks, shoes or underwear.  Also, especially, in the high school sizes, they do like things to be of current style so that the kids fit in better at school.  

Please help!  If you have donations, you can drop them off at Tierra Antigua this week, just inside the main doors near the office.  Or, if you want to drop them off at my house, I would be happy to take them up to the school as well.  You can leave them under my covered front porch anytime.  Look me up in the directory or contact me at michechapman(at)gmail(dot)com

You can also make a monetary donation if you wish.  But, if you choose to do this, you must make it directly to the clothing bank.  Send it to:
BCCPTA clothing bank
P.O. Box 92675
Albuquerque, NM 87119

Thank you!  Wouldn't it be awesome if we could fill that balloon trailer?  That would really be a lot of clothes and would help so many kids.
~Michelle C.

Santa's Helpers Kid's Ornament-Making Class

Get a head start on the holidays! Think: teachers, friends, neighbors, cousins, and grandparents. What is the perfect, homemade and thoughtful gift your kids can give themselves? Answer: Handmade ceramic Christmas ornaments.


Join us for a day of ornament-making Saturday, November 26th. Students will have the opportunity to make as many ornaments as they would like and the $15 fee (per child) includes all clay, the 2 hours of studio time, and the first firing.

Two class times available on the 26th:
Preschool Potters (ages 4 to 5), 10am to noon
Clay Kids (ages 6 and up), 1pm to 3pm

Call or email for more details and to register: jennywappett(at)gmail(dot)com,(505)890-3349
Deadline for registration: November 19th

Craft Fair

Come check out this Craft Fair this upcoming Saturday. I will have a booth there, and there are fun prizes to win! Maybe you can get some Christmas shopping done, too!

I need a favor

I am working on a Thanksgiving activity for my little preschool group and need to cut out like 50+ leaves for an activity we're doing.  I was hoping that someone has one of those cool paper cutting machines like a Circut or something similar that I might be able to barrow/come over and use to cut out leaves.  If you have one and are willing to let me use it for like 30 minutes please email me and let me know.  I am looking to do this activity next week.  Thanks! Lisa B.
mammaburk at gmail (dot) com

copies of Mistborn available

If you haven't got your hands on a copy of our next book for book club, both Michelle Chapman and I have copies of Mistborn available (I really enjoyed it, by the way.)
Send us an email if you'd like to read it before our next meeting on November 17th.
Melissa- melissa DOT lee DOT spencer AT gmail DOT com
Michelle- michechapman AT gmail DOT com

Alice in Wonderland Costume

I have a size 10 Alice in Wonderland costume that I bought for half price at the Disney Store yesterday. Before returning, I thought I'd see if anyone wants it. I paid about $21.40 which includes the tax. Email StaceyRhineer[at]gmail[dot]com if interested.

Jon Barrie for Senate

Jon Barrie for United States Senate:

As some of you may know, Jon Barrie from the Ventana Ward is running for the United States Senate as an Independent candidate. Jon stands for the United States Constitution and wants to put God back into this country.

Jon has many years of management experience. He was born in Paris Tennessee and raised in Minnesota and North Dakota. He has voted in every election whenever able to vote. He has a strong belief in God, Family and Country. He is a Vietnam Veteran and supports our nation’s military. He stands by those individuals who abide by the Constitution of the United States of America. His professional experience includes forty plus years of aviation experience and ten years of Alternative Health Practice.

Jon is a believer in the benefits of education. He enlisted in the United States Air Force at the young age of 17. Although he was a high school drop-out, while in the service, he completed his high school G.E.D. and numerous Non-Commissioned Officer maintenance and management courses and some college courses. He continued his education while working full-time after his discharge. He enrolled in and completed pilot training and worked for numerous aviation companies in pilot and management positions as well as 11 ½ years with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and 6 months with the U.S. Forest Service. During his FAA employment, he completed twenty-six management, operations, human relations and technical courses. He is the holder of numerous FAA pilot and mechanic certificates. He continued his education by earning a Bachelor of Science and Master of Science in Aviation Management from Columbus University. He has attended Salt Lake City Community College, Brigham Young University, Embry Riddle Aeronautical University, Regents College and Robbinsdale High School, Robbinsdale, Minnesota. Jon attended and completed courses that qualified him as a Homeopathic Practitioner.

Jon is a life member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) and the Disabled American Veterans (DAV.) He is a member of the American Heart and Stroke Association. He is active in alternative health options and qualified as a Classical Homeopathic Practitioner. Jon is an avid outdoorsman and enjoys skiing, hiking, hunting, shooting, golfing, fishing, and physical fitness.

Jon was awarded the Vietnam Campaign awards, The United States Air Force Outstanding Unit award and United States Air Force Commendation Medal. He has a certificate of completion from the Toastmasters International Speechcraft Program in communication and leadership, and the Toastmasters International distinguished service certificate. He received the Dale Carnegie Reporting and Highest Achievement Awards, He also earned a Total Quality Management certificate from the Provo, Utah chamber of commerce and Certificate of achievement from the Weber County, Utah Sheriffs Department.

Jon is setting up his campaign staff and is looking for help in all areas such as Media, Treasurer, Writer, Research Assistant, Website, Face book, etc. He welcomes anybody who would like to volunteer their time and talents. As an independent candidate, he has the daunting task of collecting 20,000 signatures on the election petition and of course donations. He will be making his official announcement in 2-3 weeks.

JOIN WITH JON TO SUPPORT AND RESTORE:

The constitution of the United States of America. Put God back into our country.
Limited Federal Government. Lower (no) taxes-eliminate the IRS.
Protection of life-no funding of abortion or planned parenthood. Immigration laws.
The right to bear arms-2nd amendment rights. Repeal national health mandates-Obama care.
LIBERTY-comply with the bill of rights-eliminate the Patriot Act.
Non-intervention policy-eliminate undeclared wars- BRING OUR TROOPS HOME!!! And defend American soil.

E-mail jon@jonbarrieforsenate.com website: www.jonbarrieforsenate.com
Telephone (505) 999-2118

TUESDAY activities

Well, there's something for just about everyone tomorrow!  If you're looking for something to do, here are some options:

*Ventana Ward Relief Society Temple trip - Tuesday, November 1st - 10am session (for endowed sisters with current recommends)

*Park Days - EVERY Tuesday with nice weather - 10am at the Ventana West Park at the rotary (round-about) - for moms with kiddos at home and/or any ladies who want to just meet up at the park to chat and enjoy this FABULOUS weather!!

*Ventana Ward Temple Assignment - Tuesday, November 1st - the sign up sheet was blank at the end of church yesterday.  They need 3 ladies and 3 men to do initiatories at 5:30pm.  Arrive 30 minutes early.  Contact me if you intend to fill the assignment.

All assuming we make it past tonight, right?  Happy Halloween!
~Michelle C/Ventana Ward RS
michechapman(at)gmail(dot)com

Machine Quilting?

Hey does anyone know of someone who does machine quilting or somewhere to get it done? And about how much it costs? Just want to check out some options...thanks!
crescentmarchant(at)gmail(dot)com

Blood Drive

The young single adults have organized a blood drive for their F.H.E, and have opened it to everyone in the Ventana area. The date is November 7th from 6pm to 9pm. It will be at the Ventana Chapel. There are many appointment slots open, but they would like to assign you an appointment so that they can have enough people to draw your blood, and you're not waiting around. The YSA's have done this a few times before with great success. Please call me, comment here, or email me at jaezbrown(at)gmail(dot)com if you are interested. Someone will get in contact with you to assign you a time. Thanks! Angela B.

Contractor?

I need a contractor to install a sliding glass door at my house. Does anyone have a good recommendation? Please email me if you do martinnwnm5 at gmail dot com.

Thanks!!!!

Breaking Dawn

I can't imagine a more fun way to spend an evening than sitting with screaming adolescents while watching a movie with bad acting, worse special effects, and of course, werewolves and vampires.

Who's with me? Let's buy tickets! Let's go to the new theatre in Rio Rancho!

Team Jacob for life!

Email me if you're in: tim(dot)sara(dot)rauch(at)gmail(dot)com.

Chick Fil A Super Super Hero Night!!!

Did you know that tonight was Super Super Hero night at Chick Fil A??? If your child dresses as a super hero he/she will get a free kids meal. They will have tons of stuff going on and someone who actually worked on the Green Lantern will be there. Sorry for the late notice, I just remembered and couldn't find any info online. I just called them and they said it goes from 5:30-7:30. I am not sure if it is all the Chick Fil A's, I called the one on Ellison. See you there!

Hapari Swimwear Clearance

Hi Ladies,

I got an e-mail with a coupon code to take 60% off of anything at Hapari.com.   I like their swimwear because its long enough and they have higher waisted bottoms so your mid-section doesn't hang out!

Coupon Code:  Fall60

Just thought I would pass it on.

Kellie W.

Ventana Ward RS Temple morning

Hi Ladies,
Let's try this again.  I plan to do another temple session on November 1st at 10am.  All endowed sisters with current recommends are invited.  Hope to see ya there!  If you want to carpool, e-mail me at michechapman(at)gmail(dot)com

Since I was the only one who went last time, please let me know if there is some way to make it more convenient.  Does afternoon work better?  I don't mind that I was the only one who went, but the point is to make it easier for sisters to attend the temple with a friend.  I can go pretty much anytime I want by myself, so, let me know if you have suggestions for a different day or time for future months.  (We'll stick with November 1st at 10am for this one.)   I can't cut into the evenings because of my own kids' schedules, and I feel that weekends should be left for couples to go, but I'm open to different weekdays/times.  If you ARE interested in being part of this group, and want to build an e-mail list so we can chat about it, send me a note at the e-mail address above.

Thanks!
Michelle C

In need of a Babysitter

I am looking for a babysitter for my kids this Saturday at 7:00pm.  Anyone know someone?

Baby girl Stuff

Any body need some baby girl stuff?  I have 3 cute winter sleepers size 12 months in super condition.  One that's 9 months and cotton, not the thick fuzzy stuff.  There are also three onsies, a summer dress with sun hat, and seven little bibs that are cloth on top/plastic on the back.  My mother had them for my niece that she watches. 

Cleaning out my magazines

I have a stack of magazines--Ensigns, New Era, Runner's World, and Skating that I'd like to get rid of. I think all are from within the last year. If anyone would like them they're yours. I'm in the directory, or email debbie at thewagers dot org.

book club info

Here's the lineup for the next 2 months. Any volunteers to discuss or host the meeting send me an email.
November: Mistborn by Brandon Sanderson
December: Snow Flower and the Secret Fan by Lisa See

Other books discussed/recommended last night
The Bloody Jack young adult series- historical fiction about pirates, sailing on the seas, etc.
Cutting for Stone by Voorhies- twins are born to a Nun in Ethiopia
Madam Tousaud- historical fiction about the woman and the wax museum and French culture
Pope Joan- historical fiction about the rise of Christiandom in Europe and the power of women

Mall Deals

Yesterday when I was at the mall I found 2 great deals. At Bath and Body Works they have their Halloween stuff at 75% off. There wasn't alot left, but they had the antibacterial pocket bacs for 37 cents each. Also, JCPenny had some of their backpacks at $1.97. They were mostly plain or boyish. They were not character backpacks. They had some X Games over the shoulder sling backpacks in that sale. Go here to see one style they had. They had tons so if you are looking for a back up backpack for your junior high school er whose first backpack ripped 2 weeks into school because the thing weighed 50pounds, this would be the deal for you. Or me truthfully. Happy Shopping!