tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10949137255041481332024-03-12T21:35:19.857-07:00A HOUSE UNITEDA House Unitedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12281700322756640081noreply@blogger.comBlogger94125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1094913725504148133.post-31181344546927918552014-01-15T04:30:00.001-08:002014-01-15T04:30:36.992-08:00Its like 'A Beautiful Mind' up in here!<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Recently, a friend told me something that I really started thinking about. She was mentioning how incredibly genetic ADHD is, and that myself or Cody probably had it as well. The doctor who diagnosed Hyrum said the same thing, and I pointed the finger in Cody's direction. Three fingers pointed back at me, and, I daresay, those three fingers were right. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">It is uncanny how often I see myself in my son. His stubbornness he gets from his dad (Oh yes I did!!) and his autism, but so many other qualities, like the genetic failures,(uh oh) he gets from me. Or, as my dad likes to say, "The nut doesn't fall too far from the tree." </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">All my life I've felt crazy. I imagine that is how most people with Autism and ADHD feel. I only recently got treated for my anxiety and began to feel like a real live human! Imagine that! The difference my anxiety medication makes in me is like night and day. Anxiety is also extremely common in children with ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder). </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I decided to look into the possibility that I also have ASD and ADHD. I didn't want to admit it when people suggested it; just like I didn't want to admit I should take medication for anxiety. But the puzzle pieces started forming, then started fitting together, and it was like 'A Beautiful Mind' all over again. Well, not really, but you know what I mean! I was Russel Crowe, seeing all these signs before me that I had never seen before. It was amazing. And scary. But mostly, relieving. </span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I felt like Mr. Burns from 'The Simpons', tapping my fingers together and saying, "Excellent...." Things I assumed were quirks or personality defects were really symptoms of a bigger problem. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I began by taking all the tests I could find on ASD and ADHD. Funny how in filling them out several times for my son I never once put myself in there.... hmmmmm..... I began to see how many of those qualities I have, and how I have compensated for them. For instance, Caffeine. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Those of you who know me know of my love for Diet Coke. It is a "quirky Ballard family tradition"..... Red flags anyone??? That aside, you may not know WHY I reach for the Diet Coke so often. It has long been my comfort of choice. In stressful situations, in troubled times, a Diet Coke CALMS me down. I smile when I think about how many times I've joked with my mom about feeling crazy and needing a Diet Coke. Researchers have discovered a lot of interesting information about caffeine and its effects on the brain in people with and without ADHD.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">"Anecdotal evidence suggests that many individuals are already using
caffeine to self-medicate ADHD in themselves or their children. Many
sufferers find it has the opposite effect than it does in other people:
instead of making them more active and stimulated, it actually has more
of a “calm-down” effect, and encourages sleep." </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> ("Caffeine's Effect on ADHD Symptoms" by Jane Collingwood)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Interesting how the same words I've been using all my life were applied in several scientific studies! But caffeine wasn't all. I started to see how I am fickle in my attention to things. I often tell Cody when he is speaking that I only want "the Cliff's Notes" of what he has to say when it involves too many details. I day dream a lot, and I mean... A LOT. I'm constantly moving at least one part of my body. This is usually a foot. What I thought might be Restless Leg Syndrome (such a ridiculous name) was really ADHD. And HELLO!!! Impulsive behavior?? You know I've got that. Thankfully, maturity and medication for anxiety have really helped me with that. But those of you who knew me as a child and before medication adult know that I've got these symptoms listed under ADHD. </span><br />
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<li class=" generic-container">Be very impatient</li>
<li class=" generic-container">Blurt out inappropriate comments, show their emotions without restraint, and act without regard for consequences</li>
<li class=" generic-container">Have difficulty waiting for things they want or waiting their turns in games </li>
</ul>
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Yep, that sounds about right. Especially the emotions without restraint. Even though my ASD symptoms meant that I didn't always know what those emotions were or why I was emotional. That is why when I wigged out I had people saying to each other, "That girl be craaaazzzzzyyyyyy." </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">The tests on ASD were of a similar nature. I seemed to see myself in every page, in every symptom. So much so that I had to honestly ask myself if I was being too liberal with my acceptance. I certainly don't want any more difficulties in life, but I know what I've been dealing with for the last 30 years, and a lot of it ain't all that pretty. And knowing the why behind the problem is actually pretty relieving. I came to the conclusion that I probably have a very mild case, (or at least it has become more mild as the years go by) of ASD. I know that I sure hate loud noises, crowded places, tags on my clothes, and fluorescent lighting. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">There are many other symptoms of ASD, and I do not have them all certainly, but here are a few I struggle with:</span><br />
<ul>
<li> Resistance to being touched.</li>
<li> Difficulty or failure to make friends with children the same age.</li>
<li> Repetitive body movements (hand flapping, rocking, spinning); moving constantly.</li>
<li> Obsessive attachment to unusual objects (rubber bands, keys, light switches).</li>
<li> A strong need for sameness, order, and routines
(e.g. lines up toys, follows a rigid schedule). Gets upset by change in
their routine or environment.</li>
<li> Clumsiness, abnormal posture, or odd ways of moving.</li>
<li>Difficulty with emotion.</li>
<li>Visually minded; learns things be seeing better than by speaking direction.</li>
</ul>
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> I used to HATE being touched. It felt uncomfortable and I resisted it. Super awkward when you are dating, but hey, that was me. :) I also have always made friends that were either older or younger than me. Eventually I was able to make more friends of the same age, but even now many of the people I am friends with are of differing ages. (as a side note to this, I do NOT think this is a bad thing....I think it is wonderful). I often tug on my earlobes when I am feeling uncomfortable. It is a self soothing technique I developed long ago. Hyrum spins... he used to play with his ears a lot too. Taco Bell ear anyone? (sorry, inside joke). </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">I still sleep with my baby blanket, and I am OBSESSIVELY attached to it. I don't NEED it to sleep, but I sleep a lot better with the smell of it and the feel of it. Usually, it sleeps right next to my face. :) </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> I enjoy routine, knowing what to expect, and not being unpleasantly surprised. I don't like to feel any more out of control than I have to. This is common with lots of people with ASD. Cody always teases me when I say, "Let's go over the plan." He says, "What plan? Just go with it." I cannot tell you how much this bothers me. I can't really explain why, but I like to know what to expect. It is comforting. I also want to apologize to all those, especially in laws, who have seen me as impatient when in the planning process. I don't mean to be pushy, I just like well founded easy to execute plans. Preferably in advance. :) </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">It is true, I am a visually minded person. I can do anything as long as I'm SHOWN how to do it first. Verbal instructions are often lost on me. I think this is another reason I struggle so much with math. I can't see forms of algebra or calculus in a way that makes sense to me. Basic math, sure. But after that, that is what calculators are for. :) My son got upset in church the other day because of a question about making his bed. He realized that he didn't know how to do it. He knew how people SAID you should do it, but he doesn't see mom do it much so he didn't know. And he got upset and we had trouble. Because he needed those visual ques. I refuse to apologize however. I still maintain that making beds is stupid and I won't do it more often than necessary. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">T-REX is the only one who'll be making beds at my house. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Clumsy? Ha! Just yesterday I broke my toe. And Hyrum runs into stuff several times a day. Oh, and remember when I broke my leg in 4 places and sprained the other leg WALKING down stairs??? Granted, that wasn't my fault, but those things happen to me. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Last but not least; difficulty with emotions. Raise your hand if I've ever scared you with an emotional outburst. Okay, okay!! At least I admit it, right? My son struggles with this too. We just don't understand that other people don't feel as crazy as we do, as helpless as we do, and as vulnerable. I could go on and on with examples in my life, but lets just agree that emotions are a constant struggle in this house hold. Mine are 99% normal with my medication. I hope that someday Hyrum's will be too. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Thank you from the bottom of my heart for being with me all these years and helping me get to this point. Hopefully the beautiful minds in this house just keep getting more beautiful.... or something. And until then, pass me a Diet Coke. </span><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />A House Unitedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12281700322756640081noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1094913725504148133.post-31945320073089941652013-04-22T10:02:00.001-07:002013-04-22T10:02:49.203-07:00Happy 6th Birthday Hyrum!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I can hardly believe Hyrum turned 6 on April 17th. He had a Monster themed party, which flooded my house with 14 kids. We painted monster rocks, felt monster parts, and decorated cupcakes. <br />
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He wanted a Thor cake, so I had my neighbor make this for him. <br />
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Gotta love that funny face he makes in all his pictures! His smile looks more like a grimace. A House Unitedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12281700322756640081noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1094913725504148133.post-39486519437487498562013-04-11T19:25:00.002-07:002013-04-11T19:25:58.645-07:00Easter!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Hyrum and Adelaide holding up their Easter baskets. <br />
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Got some goodies! Lucky ducks. <br />
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They had so much fun dying the eggs. The problem is now I'm stuck eating deviled eggs for days on end to use them up. :)<br />
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Sorry, normally I am so against naked kid pictures but Adelaide refused to put on clothes and I wanted to do the picture I make them to every year with the bunny ears on. <br />
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You can tell they aren't going to fit much longer. :) A House Unitedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12281700322756640081noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1094913725504148133.post-65305198915014936742013-04-11T18:52:00.002-07:002013-04-11T18:52:53.893-07:00The cat I catnapped. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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This is Sammie the Siamese cat I catnapped from my parent's porch almost one year ago. She had been living in my parent's yard, sleeping on a coat on the front porch. I tried to find any owners via the internet, and looked for lost cat signs, but found no one. <br />
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Apparently my dad used to talk to her every day he came home from work. :) She was otherwise a very skiddish cat. I was happy when she let me get close enough to her one day to pet her. A few days later, I hid her under a towel and snuck her home with me. (Cody had no idea, even though I was sitting right next to him. She is a very quiet cat.) <br />
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I assumed she was a girl (yes I looked) but didn't know until I took her to the vet. Now she is a very sweet part of our family. She is sitting on my lap purring as I type this. She loves to sleep with me and cuddle with me. She has helped to fill a hole in my heart left by Fur and Lola in California. So thank you dad for letting me steal your little friend. A House Unitedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12281700322756640081noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1094913725504148133.post-2431367365152354912013-04-11T17:49:00.001-07:002013-04-11T17:49:24.421-07:00A few of my recent adventures. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I've been trying to learn some new skills lately. Here is a refurnishing project I did. This is an old ugly night stand that I painted and put cute knobs on. I sold it after. :) <br />
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The full nightstand. <br />
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For Hyrum's birthday this year he is having a "monster party." I sewed him this monster out of Minky material. It took me a few hours but he LOVES it. <br />
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Adelaide's monster... sorry the pictures are blurry. <br />
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Here they are in their full glory. <br />
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My almost finished quilt made out of old t-shirts.<br />
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A small table I refurnished then sold. A House Unitedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12281700322756640081noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1094913725504148133.post-50362875598697611502013-04-11T17:38:00.002-07:002013-04-11T17:38:41.666-07:00October thru December.... quick catch up.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Hyrum and Adelaide on Halloween. Hyrum was a pirate and Adelaide was a Werewolf. <br />
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I must admit their costumes were pretty ghetto. But they were FREE! :)<br />
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Election Day! I made up cards for them to decide who they wanted to win. One vote for Romney.<br />
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Two votes for Romney. (Notice the election themed cupcakes). :)<br />
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Visit with Santa at Zoo lights. A new family tradition for sure! <br />
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The kids got to write letters for Santa and mail them. <br />
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The fun of Zoo Lights. It really was a great time. <br />
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Visiting with Santa at the church party. :)<br />
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I had a hard time placing who "Santa" was. <br />
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Hyrum and Adelaide's first ever Snowman. I'm just glad we had snow this year.<br />
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Adelaide turned 4 on December 22nd. She got lots of fun stuff.<br />
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And had a Tinkerbell cake.<br />
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Christmas 2012. Good times! A House Unitedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12281700322756640081noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1094913725504148133.post-73905578657147372852012-10-16T17:36:00.000-07:002012-10-16T17:36:10.057-07:00You know you want to see it.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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That's right folks. My latest surgery. The last picture is of my surgery in August, which is why it is the least disgusting. :) I especially like my swollen elephant skin. Sexy.A House Unitedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12281700322756640081noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1094913725504148133.post-89153205194028583782012-10-16T17:32:00.004-07:002012-10-16T17:32:56.661-07:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Fall is my favorite time of the year. We have started our activities by spending lots of time outdoors and visiting the pumpkin patch in our neighborhood that donates all the money it gets to the perpetual education fund. <br />
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The kids went to the fall festival at Hyrum's school and got their faces painted. Hyrum is a bat and Adelaide a butterfly.<br />
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I've been attempting to do fun fall crafts with them. I love the idea of it but honestly I'm not that talented so what you see is what you get. <br />
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Of course we had to visit the witches at Gardner Village!!<br />
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And take a trip through my favorite canyon, Butterfield. I like this picture because two seconds before I took it Cody was picking his nose. Missed it by that much. :)<br /><br />
<br />A House Unitedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12281700322756640081noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1094913725504148133.post-85032222123733065562012-10-16T17:26:00.000-07:002012-10-16T17:26:03.509-07:00Summer FunThe kids and I had a great summer. We did a lot of fun activities including:<br />
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Hyrum's birthday.... technically not summer but he wanted this picture to be on here.<br />
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Plenty of pool time.<br />
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Going to a Bee's game and getting to not only eat ice cream but ride a little train.<br />
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Going to the Andreasen family reunion in Lava Hot Springs.<br />
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Staying in a haunted school house... they loved this. I think I was more scared than they were.<br />
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Rodeo!!!! More fun than I thought it would be for sure.<br />
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Lagoon with the Roper cousins.... super fun!!<br />
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Fourth of July and the 24th of July. <br />
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All in all it was a great summer. Lots of good memories for the kids. :)<br /><br />
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<br />A House Unitedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12281700322756640081noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1094913725504148133.post-63114952337014821462012-09-24T14:18:00.001-07:002012-09-24T14:18:15.220-07:00Quick Catch Up<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Very Quick catch up: Adelaide turned 3 in December.... She loved her cake. For Christmas they got their own Moose Jammies. My favorite part of their Easter Baskets was these blow up chicks. For some reason they seemed like something I would like. :) And last but not least, Hyrum turned 5 in April. He had a super hero party. My favorite picture is the last one. He threw a fit at his own party. Sound familiar? lol...</div>
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<br />A House Unitedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12281700322756640081noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1094913725504148133.post-21971764123029473122012-05-03T09:29:00.001-07:002012-05-03T09:29:19.359-07:00NOT for the faint in heart: my November recovery<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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These good looking photos were taken after my cast was removed. Under that swollen stitched up skin is a large metal plate and 12 huge screws. And let me tell you, it hurt worse than it looked. The small circular areas of stitches were where the fixator was screwed into the bones in my leg and foot. I believe it was in six places. Sorry to be so gruesome but I'm kind of proud of my battle scars. Even if the battle was just me and one large stair. You may think the stair one but that stair will pay. You'll see. :)A House Unitedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12281700322756640081noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1094913725504148133.post-14942105643164657632012-04-23T13:51:00.002-07:002012-04-23T13:51:37.994-07:00Halloween 2011<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Here is a picture of the kids for Halloween of 2011. Can you tell I'm trying to catch up? I was very sad that Halloween because not only was I bedridden, I was puking my guts out. How was that fair? The kids had a good time. Hyrum said his favorite part was helping me hand out the candy. What a sweet boy. :)A House Unitedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12281700322756640081noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1094913725504148133.post-80351463589940731972012-02-27T15:56:00.004-08:002012-02-27T16:06:11.979-08:00Healing in October<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qxoyFjL3luA/T0wZ2dK6EhI/AAAAAAAAAbI/MpDcZ6KjbOc/s1600/2011-09-28%2B19.01.53.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qxoyFjL3luA/T0wZ2dK6EhI/AAAAAAAAAbI/MpDcZ6KjbOc/s320/2011-09-28%2B19.01.53.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5713970450560324114" border="0" /></a>Look at all my fun equipment. Yikes. I don't miss all that. This was one of the worst times in my life. I was not made to be dependent on everyone and anyone.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jUd2ss7D33A/T0wZbAmPwbI/AAAAAAAAAa8/aD2GcN-AK8Q/s1600/2011-09-23%2B11.17.29.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jUd2ss7D33A/T0wZbAmPwbI/AAAAAAAAAa8/aD2GcN-AK8Q/s320/2011-09-23%2B11.17.29.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5713969979033895346" border="0" /></a>Left leg and its swelling.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-66A1Qn2budI/T0wYvNk6G-I/AAAAAAAAAaw/iGGeBkEhuyI/s1600/2011-10-16%2B19.54.37.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-66A1Qn2budI/T0wYvNk6G-I/AAAAAAAAAaw/iGGeBkEhuyI/s320/2011-10-16%2B19.54.37.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5713969226603699170" border="0" /></a>The cool cast I designed. I also designed something to scratch my leg with. The problem was I had so many stitches in that I may have scratched them out. :)A House Unitedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12281700322756640081noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1094913725504148133.post-19563781819894357402012-02-27T15:35:00.007-08:002012-02-27T15:55:40.194-08:00September and the " freak accident"<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MFc9VNiBgB8/T0wW1_afoZI/AAAAAAAAAak/yKxvHuO2Hik/s1600/2011-09-18%2B19.21.33.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MFc9VNiBgB8/T0wW1_afoZI/AAAAAAAAAak/yKxvHuO2Hik/s320/2011-09-18%2B19.21.33.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5713967144037753234" border="0" /></a>Me in the hospital after my bones were set. Notice my wrapped legs. lol... I am doing an exercise to keep from getting Pneumonia. And am HATING using bedpans. <br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BtQkb7GR9EI/T0wV9DjZr8I/AAAAAAAAAaY/Y4ZkZuh-dSw/s1600/2011-09-18%2B19.22.45.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BtQkb7GR9EI/T0wV9DjZr8I/AAAAAAAAAaY/Y4ZkZuh-dSw/s320/2011-09-18%2B19.22.45.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5713966165896310722" border="0" /></a>After surgery. I have the external fixator in my leg. Holes drilled into six places in my bones. Not fun and psychologically disturbing. <br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fwVHobTFAhw/T0wVdjksb8I/AAAAAAAAAaM/DDF9HrDZAi0/s1600/2011-09-23%2B11.17.13.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fwVHobTFAhw/T0wVdjksb8I/AAAAAAAAAaM/DDF9HrDZAi0/s320/2011-09-23%2B11.17.13.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5713965624735854530" border="0" /></a>You can sort of see where the rods are drilled into my bone. <br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Y7BB5zvT_Gk/T0wUCeV5uYI/AAAAAAAAAaA/CddQdKwYJHM/s1600/2011-09-17%2B10.14.10.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Y7BB5zvT_Gk/T0wUCeV5uYI/AAAAAAAAAaA/CddQdKwYJHM/s320/2011-09-17%2B10.14.10.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5713964059963537794" border="0" /></a>Cody took this just as the swelling in my left leg started in the ER. The picture below is my right foot in the ER before anything was set. Hurt like Hades. Can you tell?<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-i0eWqyk8wAw/T0wTyX5RWJI/AAAAAAAAAZ0/zR17-3oYdeM/s1600/2011-09-17%2B10.15.08.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-i0eWqyk8wAw/T0wTyX5RWJI/AAAAAAAAAZ0/zR17-3oYdeM/s320/2011-09-17%2B10.15.08.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5713963783354931346" border="0" /></a><br />Aren't you glad I posted the pictures Cody took in the ER? In September, I was on my way to get a diet coke when a step that is against building codes nearly killed me. I lay on the ground with my diet coke dreams on hold and a dislocated right ankle and four serious breaks in my leg. The left leg was sprained badly. 911 was called and they took my sorry butt to the ER. I had two surgeries two weeks apart to get things organized. This was the joy of my September.A House Unitedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12281700322756640081noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1094913725504148133.post-1275147397604092082011-08-15T18:12:00.000-07:002011-08-15T18:16:18.218-07:00Our newest addition... again with the pets!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-t_XRO1WSJmo/TknEM7AB1kI/AAAAAAAAAZs/cKdol-gm6rQ/s1600/fifth%2Byear%2B002.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-t_XRO1WSJmo/TknEM7AB1kI/AAAAAAAAAZs/cKdol-gm6rQ/s320/fifth%2Byear%2B002.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5641255734533543490" border="0" /></a>If you know anything about me you know I'm a SUCKER for animals. And this little guy is no exception. He was headed to the pound and I just had to have him. He is a 10 year old "Shorkie" Shitzu and Yorkie mix named Grizzly. He is just like a little old man because he likes things his way and.... well.... he smells like one. His breath anyway. But we adore him and He adores me. Mostly me and just tolerates the others. He is a self esteem builder for sure. :) So here's to another of my endless parade of pets.
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<br />A House Unitedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12281700322756640081noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1094913725504148133.post-49760131829484838932011-08-15T18:11:00.001-07:002011-08-15T18:12:38.027-07:00Stuffed Zucchini... so good<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yA5HOB1pY_o/TknD7dxKF7I/AAAAAAAAAZk/sxRv1sv2VSs/s1600/stuffed%2Bzucchini.jpeg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 259px; height: 195px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yA5HOB1pY_o/TknD7dxKF7I/AAAAAAAAAZk/sxRv1sv2VSs/s320/stuffed%2Bzucchini.jpeg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5641255434628765618" border="0" /></a><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> <w:useasianbreakrules/> </w:Compatibility> <w:browserlevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman";} </style> <![endif]--> <p class="MsoNormal"><b style=""><u><span style="font-size: 16pt;">Stuffed Zucchini</span></u></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">1 ½ lbs zucchini squash</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">1 ½ cups soft bread crumbs</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">½ cup grated cheese</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">¼ tspn salt</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">1/8 tspn pepper</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">2 eggs, beaten</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">2 Tbspn minced parsley</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">2 Tbspns butter</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">¼ cup grated cheese for top</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 16pt;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">Wash, cut off ends, and cook in 1 inch boiling water with 1 tspn salt in covered kettle about 5-7 minutes.<span style=""> </span>Cut squash in half lengthwise.<span style=""> </span>Carefully remove center of squash from shells.<span style=""> </span>Chop squash and mix with other ingredients except butter and 1/4<sup>th</sup> cup grated cheese.<span style=""> </span>Pile mixture into zucchini shells.<span style=""> </span>Dot with 2 Tbspns butter and sprinkle with ¼ cup grated cheese.<span style=""> </span>Put on a baking pan and bake at 350 for 30 minutes.<span style=""> </span></span></p>
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<br />A House Unitedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12281700322756640081noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1094913725504148133.post-9947504301170558362011-07-20T19:16:00.000-07:002011-07-20T19:31:36.311-07:00A few tasty dishes in a super busy week.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OLS2VpbRNlw/TieN_WTAxNI/AAAAAAAAAZc/HTyvHQVEUA8/s1600/tuna%2Bnoodle.jpeg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 275px; height: 183px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OLS2VpbRNlw/TieN_WTAxNI/AAAAAAAAAZc/HTyvHQVEUA8/s320/tuna%2Bnoodle.jpeg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5631625978506691794" border="0" /></a>Tuna Noodle Casserole.... Something I've always thought was a bit white trash. I know, so rude. :) Cody love it though so I found a recipe I thought I'd give a try. I added some veggies in it to make me feel a bit better about it and to make the flavor more interesting. All in all I'd keep this recipe because it is cheap, easy, and actually quite tasty. <br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-G0ixpaQZziQ/TieN51fGalI/AAAAAAAAAZU/BJK_X75HQQQ/s1600/chocolate%2Bbanana%2Btrifle.jpeg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 149px; height: 111px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-G0ixpaQZziQ/TieN51fGalI/AAAAAAAAAZU/BJK_X75HQQQ/s320/chocolate%2Bbanana%2Btrifle.jpeg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5631625883799677522" border="0" /></a>Next was what I was really excited about: Chocolate Banana Cream Trifle. Yum Yum! When I first saw this recipe I was intimidated because it was so long. But it was really easy. The only hard thing was getting it to look like the pretty picture (not the one above!) Oh this was a good recipe and it would impress company for sure! So these are going into my stash!<br /><br /><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> <w:useasianbreakrules/> </w:Compatibility> <w:browserlevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman";} </style> <![endif]--> <p class="MsoNormal"><b style=""><u><span style="font-size: 16pt;">Tuna Noodle Casserole</span></u></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><b style=""><u><span style="font-size: 16pt;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"> </span></span></u></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">8oz cooked noodles</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">1 can tuna fish</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">1 can Cream of Mushroom Soup</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">2/3 cup milk</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">(optional cooked vegetables) </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">Buttered bread crumbs</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 16pt;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">Mix all ingredients together except bread crumbs.<span style=""> </span>Place in casserole dish.<span style=""> </span>Top with Bread Crumbs.<span style=""> </span>Bake at 375 for 25 minutes.<span style=""> </span></span></p> <!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> <w:useasianbreakrules/> </w:Compatibility> <w:browserlevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman";} </style> <![endif]--> <p class="MsoNormal"><b style=""><u><span style="font-size: 16pt;">Chocolate Banana Cream Truffle</span></u></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><b style=""><u><span style="font-size: 16pt;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"> </span></span></u></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">18 whole graham crackers</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">¾ cup chocolate morsels</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">1 12oz container whipped topping</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">1 ¾ oz box vanilla instant pudding</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">1 cup milk</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">4 large bananas, peeled </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">2 Tbspn lemon juice</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 16pt;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">Chop graham crackers; set aside.<span style=""> </span>For ganache, place chocolate morsels and 1 ½ cup whipped topping into a small bowl.<span style=""> </span>Microwave on high until melted and smooth, stirring every 15 seconds.<span style=""> </span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 16pt;"><span style=""> </span>Combine pudding mix and milk in separate bowl; whisk until thickened.<span style=""> </span>Fold in remaining whipped topping.<span style=""> </span>Slice bananas, sprinkle with lemon juice and toss gently.<span style=""> </span>Set aside 10-12 slices for garnish.<span style=""> </span></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 16pt;"><span style=""> </span>To assemble trifle, place half the graham cracker crumbs over bottom of trifle bowl.<span style=""> </span>Place half the bananas on crackers and top with one third of the gananche.<span style=""> </span>Spread half of the pudding filling over ganache.<span style=""> </span>Repeat layer.<span style=""> </span>Decorate with remaining ganache and sprinkle with graham cracker crumbs.<span style=""> </span>Arrange reserved banana slices around edges.</span></p>A House Unitedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12281700322756640081noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1094913725504148133.post-73387791190977769652011-07-17T17:35:00.000-07:002011-07-17T17:39:24.691-07:00Peach Cobbler... so good<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7kG8AD1vBWs/TiN_0y6LSTI/AAAAAAAAAZM/RTctCupT6Cw/s1600/peach%2Bcobbler.jpeg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 247px; height: 204px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7kG8AD1vBWs/TiN_0y6LSTI/AAAAAAAAAZM/RTctCupT6Cw/s320/peach%2Bcobbler.jpeg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5630484504138959154" border="0" /></a>Tonight I invited my sister, her fiancee and my youngest brother over for dinner. We started with Turkey (or chicken) stuffing casserole which is in the Ballard Family Cookbook. Ceaser Salad and Parmesan Pillows, which are delicious Parmesan rolls (also in the Ballard Cookbook). <br />If you want those recipes, let me know. But the one I'm adding to my book that I don't yet have is for my brother Mark's Peach Cobbler. Oh boy is this easy and DELICIOUS! I'm not one who likes cooked fruit, but I really love this. Here is the recipe:<br /><br /><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> <w:useasianbreakrules/> </w:Compatibility> <w:browserlevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman";} </style> <![endif]--> <p class="MsoNormal"><b style=""><u><span style="font-size: 16pt;">Mark’s Peach Cobbler</span></u></b></p> <span style="text-decoration: underline;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /></span></span> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">2 small cans of peaches (or 1 quart)</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">1 box yellow cake mix</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">1 stick butter</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 16pt;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">Put peaches in an 8x14 pan with most of the juice.<span style=""> </span>Pour cake mix on top.<span style=""> </span>Pat down until smooth.<span style=""> </span>Cut butter into thin layers and put on top.<span style=""> </span>Bake at 375 for 45 minutes.<span style=""> </span>Serves 6-10.</span></p>A House Unitedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12281700322756640081noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1094913725504148133.post-59148643481041337122011-07-17T09:42:00.001-07:002011-07-17T09:45:39.941-07:00Seafood Dinner.... its a keeper!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-serRbRxWaZs/TiMRYTBHU_I/AAAAAAAAAZE/hybEmOZVKDc/s1600/crab%2Bcakes.jpeg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 225px; height: 225px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-serRbRxWaZs/TiMRYTBHU_I/AAAAAAAAAZE/hybEmOZVKDc/s320/crab%2Bcakes.jpeg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5630363068262732786" border="0" /></a><br />Last night I had some crab meat that I needed to use so I just created a fast Crab Alfredo pasta. So easy. Just the noodles, meat, sauce, and some veggies. It was tasty, but not a recipe. I wanted to try this other recipe for Maryland crab cakes I found. And guess what? It was lovely! They had a great flavor and weren't as hard as I thought they'd be. So here is the recipe which I will be adding to my favorites list!<br /><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> <w:useasianbreakrules/> </w:Compatibility> <w:browserlevel>MicrosoftInternetExplorer4</w:BrowserLevel> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if !mso]><object classid="clsid:38481807-CA0E-42D2-BF39-B33AF135CC4D" id="ieooui"></object> <style> st1\:*{behavior:url(#ieooui) } </style> <![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman";} </style> <![endif]--> <p class="MsoNormal"><b style=""><u><span style="font-size: 16pt;">Maryland</span></u></b><b style=""><u><span style="font-size: 16pt;"> Crab Cakes</span></u></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><b style=""><u><span style="font-size: 16pt;"><span style="text-decoration: none;"><br /></span></span></u></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">1 6oz pkg crab meat</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">2 egg whites</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">2 Tbspn green onion finely chopped</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">2 Tbspn mayonnaise</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">1 Tbspn parsley, snipped</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">2 tsp </span><span style="font-size: 16pt;">Dijon</span><span style="font-size: 16pt;"> Mustard</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">2 tsp fresh chopped thyme or ½ tsp. dried crushed thyme</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">½ tsp Worcestershire sauce</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">½ cup fine seasoned bread crumbs (reserve ¼<sup> </sup>cup)</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">¼ cup cornmeal</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">2 Tbspn olive oil</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">Lemon Wedges</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 16pt;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 16pt;">Thaw crab if frozen; drain.<span style=""> </span>In a bowl, combine egg whites, green onion, mayonnaise, parsley, mustard, thyme, Worcestershire sauce, and ¼ cup bread crumbs.<span style=""> </span>Stir in crab; mix well.<span style=""> </span>Shape into 4-5 patties about ¾ inch thick.<span style=""> </span>Combine the remaining bread crumbs and cornmeal mixture.<span style=""> </span>Dip each side of crab cakes in mixture.<span style=""> </span>Fry crab cakes in oil over medium heat for about 3 minutes on each side or until golden and heated through.<span style=""> </span>Add additional oil if necessary.<span style=""> </span>Serve hot with lemon wedges.<span style=""> </span></span></p>A House Unitedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12281700322756640081noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1094913725504148133.post-39744913316896363032011-07-15T14:03:00.000-07:002011-07-15T14:24:20.967-07:00A recipe a day keeps the clutter away!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0XKeQrDAQfA/TiCvFuwsUjI/AAAAAAAAAY8/4zWcFdzuzxU/s1600/first%2Byear%2B049.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0XKeQrDAQfA/TiCvFuwsUjI/AAAAAAAAAY8/4zWcFdzuzxU/s320/first%2Byear%2B049.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5629692047199588914" border="0" /></a>If you are anything like me, you like to cook. But only when it is delicious and appreciated by all. Which is why lately I haven't cooked anything exciting. :) But I've decided to consolidate my recipe collection by going through my books and index cards and filtering out the not so great ones. <br /><br />What am I going to do? Well let me tell you. Every day that I feasibly can, I will make one of my recipes in my collection. After it is consumed we will decide if it is worthy of going into my FAMILY RECIPE FAVORITES list I will be compiling. And then I will post about it. Including a recipe if it is one we liked. So get ready for my cooking adventure!A House Unitedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12281700322756640081noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1094913725504148133.post-47222015859872010112011-07-07T18:54:00.000-07:002011-07-07T18:59:20.529-07:004th of July<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-D72ldLNhiIU/ThZjkN-zwkI/AAAAAAAAAY0/KVeRyhGSAAU/s1600/fourth%2Byear%2B088.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-D72ldLNhiIU/ThZjkN-zwkI/AAAAAAAAAY0/KVeRyhGSAAU/s320/fourth%2Byear%2B088.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626794258325553730" border="0" /></a>Hope everyone had a happy 4th of July! We relaxed with a few family friends and then lit off a LARGE amount of now legal fireworks! The kids played with sparklers, well.... until Hyrum burned his hand and had to get some medical attention. I'd like to say that I had told my beloved husband several times that I didn't want them to hold them and that sparklers were the #1 cause of injuries when it comes to fireworks. But hey... anyone surprised that he didn't listen? Men.... I tell ya! And at one point in the day Adelaide had a cute fourth of July skirt on but that only lasted as long as her dry diaper... aka not long.A House Unitedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12281700322756640081noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1094913725504148133.post-45988596027206204942011-07-07T18:38:00.000-07:002011-07-07T18:52:27.164-07:00California TripFunny how living in California we never did all the fun touristy things we should have done. Luckily we had an excuse to do them this trip! We got to hang out with all the Andreasen family and go to the Long Beach Aquarium, the Beach, and Disney Land!<br /><br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5if8OOjxKb8/ThZhANrqNoI/AAAAAAAAAYk/E2s3yZrLcjU/s1600/fourth%2Byear%2B079.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5if8OOjxKb8/ThZhANrqNoI/AAAAAAAAAYk/E2s3yZrLcjU/s320/fourth%2Byear%2B079.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626791440746690178" border="0" /></a>After spending two hours in line waiting for a new Tangled ride, we were surprised to find out it wasn't a ride, and we were waiting for a two second opportunity to take a photo with Rapunzel. lol.... so not worth it. <br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-S4Rrv2MGMdo/ThZg4GOBLsI/AAAAAAAAAYc/bZcaE47mwMU/s1600/fourth%2Byear%2B077.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-S4Rrv2MGMdo/ThZg4GOBLsI/AAAAAAAAAYc/bZcaE47mwMU/s320/fourth%2Byear%2B077.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626791301304364738" border="0" /></a>She was so cute though. She reminded me of my sister in law Britta.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JCr-G88h_js/ThZgwwfw5DI/AAAAAAAAAYU/IDgEFbW8gFU/s1600/fourth%2Byear%2B086.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JCr-G88h_js/ThZgwwfw5DI/AAAAAAAAAYU/IDgEFbW8gFU/s320/fourth%2Byear%2B086.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626791175214130226" border="0" /></a>A happy Hyrum on the Dumbo ride.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qMlSiDbflcA/ThZgnLSIq9I/AAAAAAAAAYM/cTkvb0yAAXQ/s1600/fourth%2Byear%2B084.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qMlSiDbflcA/ThZgnLSIq9I/AAAAAAAAAYM/cTkvb0yAAXQ/s320/fourth%2Byear%2B084.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626791010606033874" border="0" /></a>Hyrum and Adelaide on the steps of the Haunted Mansion. Hyrum claimed that was his favorite ride. He is so much like his Mom. :)<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ds7zEkBWElo/ThZgfME-vmI/AAAAAAAAAYE/kzGM4V_oFtU/s1600/fourth%2Byear%2B076.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ds7zEkBWElo/ThZgfME-vmI/AAAAAAAAAYE/kzGM4V_oFtU/s320/fourth%2Byear%2B076.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626790873380339298" border="0" /></a>The Merry Go Round. Photo taken right before the person in charge got mad at me for standing too close to the end. OOps!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IZy-9UkpqhQ/ThZgTMYd9bI/AAAAAAAAAX8/EArng2nc9lg/s1600/fourth%2Byear%2B075.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IZy-9UkpqhQ/ThZgTMYd9bI/AAAAAAAAAX8/EArng2nc9lg/s320/fourth%2Byear%2B075.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626790667303646642" border="0" /></a><br />The magical place called Disney Land. <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CV3cQLwsYWU/ThZgAA88zSI/AAAAAAAAAX0/_0UQg0AjNo8/s1600/fourth%2Byear%2B085.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CV3cQLwsYWU/ThZgAA88zSI/AAAAAAAAAX0/_0UQg0AjNo8/s320/fourth%2Byear%2B085.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626790337817922850" border="0" /></a>Sunburned me and Hyrum at the Long Beach Aquarium.... Don't I look so lovely? At least the burn masks some of my acne. Ahhh... to be of English decent. :)<br /><br />We had a great trip. It made me so happy to see the family and made me so sad to say goodbye. This trip was truly one to remember.A House Unitedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12281700322756640081noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1094913725504148133.post-70254486894733137412011-05-03T13:06:00.000-07:002011-05-03T13:08:35.745-07:00When Men are in Charge of Fridge Temperature<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-17IH5noipQw/TcBgj1CT5WI/AAAAAAAAAXo/ZZq0GbRR8jI/s1600/fourth%2Byear%2B056.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-17IH5noipQw/TcBgj1CT5WI/AAAAAAAAAXo/ZZq0GbRR8jI/s320/fourth%2Byear%2B056.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5602584105097356642" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DfWUvaApVz8/TcBgcO0p_RI/AAAAAAAAAXg/o6D3E1nTl2g/s1600/fourth%2Byear%2B057.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DfWUvaApVz8/TcBgcO0p_RI/AAAAAAAAAXg/o6D3E1nTl2g/s320/fourth%2Byear%2B057.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5602583974580452626" border="0" /></a>'nough said.A House Unitedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12281700322756640081noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1094913725504148133.post-60862076049757168042011-05-03T13:03:00.000-07:002011-05-03T13:06:46.082-07:00Why?<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-p5F5xni2Q4M/TcBgLgauEwI/AAAAAAAAAXY/HpPqjmRlT08/s1600/fourth%2Byear%2B054.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-p5F5xni2Q4M/TcBgLgauEwI/AAAAAAAAAXY/HpPqjmRlT08/s320/fourth%2Byear%2B054.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5602583687245730562" border="0" /></a>Why do kids wear diapers on their heads and not their butts? And then touch their butts?<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-J3BQMfrHj9k/TcBgD3u9SOI/AAAAAAAAAXQ/bhlNCoN_jgc/s1600/fourth%2Byear%2B053.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-J3BQMfrHj9k/TcBgD3u9SOI/AAAAAAAAAXQ/bhlNCoN_jgc/s320/fourth%2Byear%2B053.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5602583556065675490" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VhL51LKxUwU/TcBf9lLll8I/AAAAAAAAAXI/tkrP8HpVNlA/s1600/fourth%2Byear%2B052.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VhL51LKxUwU/TcBf9lLll8I/AAAAAAAAAXI/tkrP8HpVNlA/s320/fourth%2Byear%2B052.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5602583448006268866" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SP9Ak5aF_Xk/TcBf3f33fNI/AAAAAAAAAXA/U_8OMcsJo2Q/s1600/fourth%2Byear%2B055.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SP9Ak5aF_Xk/TcBf3f33fNI/AAAAAAAAAXA/U_8OMcsJo2Q/s320/fourth%2Byear%2B055.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5602583343502163154" border="0" /></a>I'm just saying....A House Unitedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12281700322756640081noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1094913725504148133.post-71413146722164110102011-05-03T12:54:00.001-07:002011-05-03T13:03:51.538-07:00Easter Adventures<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EcRSlF8jp44/TcBeVjj3laI/AAAAAAAAAW4/CIX27husICQ/s1600/fourth%2Byear%2B063.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EcRSlF8jp44/TcBeVjj3laI/AAAAAAAAAW4/CIX27husICQ/s320/fourth%2Byear%2B063.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5602581660864845218" border="0" /></a>Here the kids are searching for eggs. I didn't follow the Andreasen tradition of putting money in them because I wanted to nip the Human Nature tradition of "It's not fair" in the bud right away. I still don't know how six boys did that without bloodshed. :)<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2rrXODRPdQU/TcBeOr6cAHI/AAAAAAAAAWw/1WQ7RqIq-Qo/s1600/fourth%2Byear%2B062.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2rrXODRPdQU/TcBeOr6cAHI/AAAAAAAAAWw/1WQ7RqIq-Qo/s320/fourth%2Byear%2B062.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5602581542847905906" border="0" /></a>Just so you know, I followed my Roper tradition of making everyone put all the candy in a bowl and take a little bit out at a time. And all the candy was in equal amounts. Like I said, I'm not eager to deal with candy chaos. <br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rVVJo9zOQwI/TcBeHeSYSQI/AAAAAAAAAWo/WILH3CWa0Yc/s1600/fourth%2Byear%2B061.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rVVJo9zOQwI/TcBeHeSYSQI/AAAAAAAAAWo/WILH3CWa0Yc/s320/fourth%2Byear%2B061.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5602581418931144962" border="0" /></a>Every year I try to make my kids wear their bunny ears. Every year Hyrum fights it (this year he won.... boo). But Adelaide was fine.....<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-31gfhmROoiE/TcBd_MGdm2I/AAAAAAAAAWg/TxU2TrP9jdU/s1600/fourth%2Byear%2B060.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-31gfhmROoiE/TcBd_MGdm2I/AAAAAAAAAWg/TxU2TrP9jdU/s320/fourth%2Byear%2B060.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5602581276610370402" border="0" /></a>Even though in this picture she looks like she is being strangled to death. She was actually supposedly trying to smile for the camera. lol<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CqwFtq-wUkI/TcBdyYTcQoI/AAAAAAAAAWY/VI9UKpE0wzg/s1600/fourth%2Byear%2B059.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CqwFtq-wUkI/TcBdyYTcQoI/AAAAAAAAAWY/VI9UKpE0wzg/s320/fourth%2Byear%2B059.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5602581056547734146" border="0" /></a>Adelaide loves sports and climbing, but is still such a girl. She loves dresses (this one's a hand me down) and all things girly.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZGFCQ0B-9fY/TcBdpMKf28I/AAAAAAAAAWQ/69ozJxkt51c/s1600/fourth%2Byear%2B058.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZGFCQ0B-9fY/TcBdpMKf28I/AAAAAAAAAWQ/69ozJxkt51c/s320/fourth%2Byear%2B058.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5602580898670173122" border="0" /></a>The kids and Cody's Easter Baskets. Notice how mom never gets one? What's that about?? <br /><br />Most importantly, a big thanks to our big brother Jesus for doing the impossible and making it possible. He is the reason we live and will live again.A House Unitedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12281700322756640081noreply@blogger.com0