Jenny B

Hello, February.

2012-02-01T21:38:00.005-07:00

This month means love and Arizona. I can't wait for the celebrations of each.

Today wasn't the most tranquil day. June didn't get a good nap, and she let me know it all day. Going on a walk, eating pears, and watching Elmo helped to calm her down for the most part.

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Listening to: Elliot Smith, especially this song.

Purchased: our plane ticket to Utah... excited, but sad to see Daniel leave on his mission.

Listing: new projects everyday. I want to tackle ones that look like this and this.

Watching: second season of Downton Abbey. I realize I'm one of the last people to ride the Abbey road, but it's worth mentioning.

Reading and Re-reading: this quote. I hope that one day this will apply to me... especially the station wagon part (preferably with wood paneling).

The Whole Love

2012-01-31T06:00:00.001-07:00

There's a whole lotta' love in this house now:

After looking at this, I decided I need some balloons to go with it.

P.S. Thank you to Shanna for that chair... We love it.

Staple

2012-01-26T22:04:00.005-07:00

I feel like I've been lacking in the recipe posts lately. I'd love to try to make at least one new thing each week. The cookbooks I checked out at the library are slightly overwhelming, since we don't always stock fresh herbs or buy fancy cheeses.

I think I've just been too busy with our "staple" meals, which are super easy, require no recipe directions, and always turn out delicious.

Here's what we usually eat: spaghetti, pancakes and eggs, grilled cheese and soup, fried rice and pot stickers, and bean burritos with homemade salsa (plus all the fix-ins)...

I guess they're not the healthiest of meals, but I'm trying to get better at eating more of the veggies than the main course.

Now pass me those chips...

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Listening to: this song by Cookie Monster. Seriously, listen to the lyrics. It's so cute and Cookie Monster singing it is THE BEST.

Decided: to try painting. I need to hang some art in my house, and unfortunately for my house, this is the cheapest way to go.

Absolutely delighted: that this inexpensive pizza oven alternative exists. I don't have to wait for William to build me an actual brick oven. Now to find me the perfect pizza dough recipe...

Cracking up: at this face and hair--

Love my girl.

Blackbird

2012-01-25T16:23:00.004-07:00

I finally jumped on the Twitter bus. I don't know what took me so long or what changed my mind... I guess I just felt like I was missing out.

Anyway, I feel like the new kid in school (which I hate), so can you let me follow you around? (Leave a comment with your twitter name, please.)

You can follow me too: @JennyBtweets

2012-01-25T09:00:00.000-07:00

I went to the library with every intent of checking out some novels.

I walked out with 4 cookbooks instead.

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Listening to: Wilco, 'A Ghost is Born'. Specifically, 'A Muzzle of Bees'.

Reading: 'Hourglass' by Myra McEntire. I need to return it very soon... I think to you, Connie?

Also Reading: one of my cookbooks from the library called 'Mad Hungry'. Its focus is feeding your family, especially families full of men. Since William does most of the eating in this house, it's perfect.

Making: Valentine Garlands... they're just made with streamers, no biggie.

Eating: this salsa. I really need to try a different recipe, but I just can't break from this one.

Happy Birthday to my twin brothers, Joe and Jay! Let's go to Carolina's.

And a Happy (late Birthday) to my brother-in-law, Daniel! Let's go to DP Cheesesteaks.

Chicken Cesaer Sandwich

2012-01-24T17:01:00.011-07:00

This is dedicated to William's little brother, David. This sandwich combines three of David's favorite things: Cesaer dressing, King's Hawaiian rolls, and meat.

I originally found the recipe here on Pinterest, but I changed it up.

Chicken Cesaer Sandwiches

1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts

1/2 cup diced onion

1/2 tsp garlic powder

1/4 cup Cesaer dressing (I used Newman's Own)

1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese

1/8 cup fresh chopped parsley

1/2 teaspoon ground pepper

8 rolls - I used King's Hawaiian

Butter

1. Place chicken in a 3-4 quart crock pot with 1 cup of water. Add chopped onions and sprinkle chicken with garlic powder. Cover and cook on low heat for 4-5 hours.

2. Remove chicken and onions from crock pot. Drain water, shred chicken, and remove fat.

3. Place chicken back in the crock pot and pour dressing, cheese, parsley, and pepper over the top. Stir together. Cover and cook on high heat for 30 minutes or until mixture is hot.

4. Butter the rolls and toast on the stove or griddle. Scoop a few spoonfuls of chicken on rolls.

You can add romaine lettuce of course... I prefer no lettuce on hot sandwiches.

10 things at 10 months

2012-01-24T00:15:00.001-07:00

Can you tell I adore my June?

I can't believe in 2 months she'll be a year old.

Here are 10 things I want to remember about June at 10 months:

1. She loves Sesame Street, especially Elmo and Cookie Monster.

2. She wiggles her toes and wrists when she is excited about eating something. Watch:

3. When the door bell rings, she pounces on my lap so that I have no choice but to carry her. She doesn't want to miss who is at the door.

4. She laughs at herself... she thinks she's hilarious. This is usually what it sounds like:

5. She LOVES to play with cell phones. I've had to ban her from my phone because she has somehow managed to call 9-1-1 five times already.

6. She loves clapping to this song and this song. (And loves dancing to William's guitar.)

7. When she hears the bath water running, she can't contain her laughter and shrieking.

8. Chubbs and June are pals.

9. When she sees that William and I are eating ice cream, she IMMEDIATELY pulls out her

pacifier and starts smacking her lips. She knows we can't deny her a few bites.

10. She loves wearing matching hair accessories:

I'm not actually sure if she does, but I do.

Wilco Lessons

2012-01-22T13:44:00.014-07:00

I learned a few things at the Wilco concert last night. Allow me to share...

1. The guy whose job it is to tell you to delete the photo you just took actually LOVES his job. Good for him. Too bad he's not very good at it:

2. At the Gammage, Row 1 actually means Row 4 because there's an A, B and a C row in front of you and everyone knows that ABC comes before Row 1.

3. Drunk middle-aged people are the funniest people to watch at concerts, EXCEPT when they're sitting next to you. Did I say "sitting"? I meant swaying*, singing loudly, dancing*, shouting at us*, and every other obnoxious thing you can think of. The husband looked like Anderson Cooper, but unlike Anderson Cooper this man had no class.

4. If there is assigned seating and you decide you want to dance* and sing in front of MY seat, I will politely tell you to move. If you respond with, "Look, I'm not hurting anyone!", I'll politely respond with "YOU SERIOUSLY BETTER MOVE." and I might have an insane look in my eye that tells you I'm about to go crazy on you. Besides, you WERE hurting me. My ears and eyes are forever imprinted with your awful singing and awkward dancing*.

5. The couple in front of us didn't get the memo that it's not 1994 anymore. They also didn't get the memo that not showering since 1994 is unacceptable.

6. Whoever created the stage design should get a raise. This is what it looked like without the lighting:

7. I actually love seeing shows at Gammage. William and I saw Ben Folds there once, too. SO GOOD.

8. Despite #1-5, we had a blast.

9.. I love Wilco very much. The music was perfect, my favorite was "Art of Almost".

And there you have it.

*This is what I mean when I say the "dancing" that we encountered last night:

Now let us never speak of this video to anyone. EVER.

2012-01-18T22:47:00.004-07:00

June is super proud to be an American, so I made her the above U.S. map out of fabric scraps. (Sorry to leave you out, Alaska and Hawaii.) This was my inspiration. No, I didn't sew each state on the canvas. It's called Mod Podge and it smells icky.

There's something wrong when you wish your bedroom was the nursery. I think it's finally time that I start decorating my own bedroom.

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Listening to: Mumford and Sons. I boarded their train and I dig.

Changed my mind: on paint colors for my bedroom AGAIN. I went from wanting to paint it dark gray to a lighter color when I saw this bedroom and this bedroom. Choosing a paint color is an annoying battle that I fight with myself.

Drinking: Hot chocolate and whipped cream.

Studying every detail of: this trailer. I can't wait.

Elated: that June is loving Sesame Street. I can't wait to get her a Cookie Monster doll.

Tiny Dancer

2012-01-17T23:06:00.003-07:00

I think June decided that cutting a rug is much more fun than crawling on the rug.

June, you are the bee's knees.

Just go to the record store, and visit your friends...

2012-01-17T18:09:00.007-07:00

This is our humble pile of records:

Most Saturdays, William and I listen to records while we work. We have a small but sensational record collection. Some we found at thrift stores. A few we bought brand new. William was generously GIVEN those Beatles records. We're lookin' to collect more.

In addition to these resolutions, I've made a few mental goals as well. One thing I aspire to do is build something.

Of course I need to start small, so I'd love to build something that houses our record collection. Something like this, or this.

The secret to making "The Best Cookies" better.

2012-01-14T09:00:00.007-07:00

I finally made what New York Times calls the best chocolate chip cookie. I know that you've seen these cookies around the interwebs, but this is yet another post about them.

Yes, they were very very very good. William ate six of them. Don't tell him I told you.

Here's the secret to making them even better: drink with a glass of cold 1% milk in a glass with a striped straw. Bam.

Rather than copy the recipe, I'm just going to link it.

Don't forget the cake and bread flour. And if you feel like eating them today, make them yesterday... the dough has to simmer in the fridge for 24 hours.

Seeing Spots

2012-01-13T09:32:00.005-07:00

(Playtime in June's room)

Yesterday was one of those days that started off amazing, and quickly took an ugly turn. My list for the day included: work at the office, Activity days (my new calling at church, I can't tell you how excited I am about it), clean the kitchen and bedroom, deliver cookies and make dinner.

In the morning, I dropped June off at my mom's and went to dad's office to work. As I was driving back, I noticed I was seeing spots,and I thought it was my contacts. Within 10 minutes of getting to my mom's house, I went from having a minor headache to feeling like my head was going to explode. Then the nausea came. I thought I knew what a migraine was, but this was a whole new level of nasty. I was thankful that I was still at my mom's... she let me sleep and watched June for a few more hours.

I didn't like yesterday at all. I only got one thing done on my list, and because of the nausea that wouldn't go away (even after my migraine did), I wasn't the most lovable mom towards this little bean:

June, I promise I will be better today... because today we're going shopping with Grandma. Nothing beats a migraine hangover like shopping with Grandma.

Here's to another day of not getting my list done. Happy Friday the 13th.

June's Diaper Change Ritual

2012-01-10T23:30:00.001-07:00

There is a porcelain pig that guards June's books on the shelves above the changing table.

I have no idea how this ritual began, but it happens every time I change June's diaper. As I lift her from the table, she consistently reaches for the pig and gently touches its face. After a few seconds, she's done.

It's bizarre, but awesome. Maybe she thinks it's good luck... or maybe she dreams of eating bacon?

P.S. Thank you for the pig, Debbie.

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Listening to: Wilco Station on Pandora. Next Saturday, I'll be just a few feet from Jeff Tweedy. I can't wait.

Eating: this cookie dough. Did you know you are supposed to refrigerate this dough for 24-36 hours before baking these cookies? Now you know. They seriously better be the best chocolate chip cookies ever, New York Times.

Emptying: our wallets, thanks to my '96 Honda Accord. William and I had big plans to finally do our yard, but I needed new tires and some work done on the engine. Curse you, 16-year-old car.

Entranced by: this photographer's blog. I love those Cinemagraph photos. It's just like the photos from Harry Potter.

Reading: "There's a Monster at the End of this Book" to June. I loved this book when I was little. Did you know there's a sequel?

June's Golden Idol

2012-01-10T21:08:00.006-07:00

I've mentioned before June's obsession with this blanket:

Because she needs to have it in hands or in sight at all times, it's a little tricky to clean it on a regular basis. I've had to develop a strategy.

While June is napping, I sneak her blanket and replace it with a sweater that just so happens to be the same texture. I make the switch Indiana Jones style. (You know the scene when Indy switches the bag of sand for the golden idol? Except I have to do it a little more swiftly and carefully.)

Today, unfortunately, the end result was the same as the movie's:

Caught. Well, at least I wasn't chased around my house by a giant rolling boulder.

The BEAST that had SKABS on his ABS

2012-01-06T22:22:00.007-07:00

The Bradfords have a way of leaving their mark after they've stayed at your house for a weekend, sort of like a dog marking his territory (but in a less disgusting way).

Example #1 - My kitchen letters normally spell 'EAT'. Remember when Daniel did this? Well, this time they found more letters and spelled:

In addition to 'BEAST', 'ABS' and 'SKABS' adorned my kitchen shelf as well.

Example #2 - Before the Bradfords came, William and I declared ourselves loser status because our refrigerator was running very low. After the Bradfords came, somehow we tripled our condiment and snack supply. (The Bradfords love their sauces.)

Example #3 - June has been a slight grump because I can't compensate the amount of attention the Bradfords gave her all weekend.

She's also really sweaty too, for some reason.

Example #4 - Dirt Tooth Construction* returned and built us a new, solid desk:

I'll be sure to show a complete 'Before & After' in another post.

Bradfords, please come again soon... we're running out of snacks.

*Dirt Tooth was born during the time William, Daniel, and David built our backyard deck. They call it 'Dirt Tooth' because they all somehow got dirt on their teeth when they were constructing the deck. But usually when people ask what Dirt Tooth Construction is, I tell them it's just the Bradford Brothers arguing over who is the boss of their fake construction company while they fix something they just broke. The End.

You are my Family Tree

2012-01-05T22:10:00.005-07:00

Last weekend was Baby Kensley's blessing, so the entire Bradford family came to town. It also happened to be the first time that ALL of the Bradfords were together in a several years. So of course we made some time to take family photos.

We lasted about twenty minutes with our photographer before we started taking our own pictures... senior portrait style?

All together now:

2012-01-04T12:33:00.006-07:00

2011 was the best year so far. Mostly because of this little nugget:

How's about some goals for 2012?

1. Go outside more.

2. Plan meals better (make freezer meals, follow a meal calendar, etc.), which brings me to my next goal...

3. "Eat food. Not too much. Mostly plants." (see list below.)

4. Read 'Jesus the Christ'.

5. Develop good studying habits.

6. Go to bed earlier and develop a better bedtime routine (wash face, floss, brush teeth, prayers, scriptures, plan, read, etc.)

7. Organize my house.

8. Take more photos. Take a photography class. Read the camera manual. Get a camera lens. Print and organize the photos.

9. Go to the library once a month. Return books on time.

10. Have more fun with William and June. Take a trip? Go on more dates? (I use question marks because I haven't discussed this with William.)

That's all for now.

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Eating: an apple. BAM. Already off to a good start.

Listening to: The Black Keys "El Camino". OH MY. SO GOOD.

Reading: "In Defense of Food". This is the book that will hopefully change my diet (See #3). I've only read the first chapter and I'm already converted. I just hope it lasts...

Wondering: what happened to the cold weather? Seriously, don't go.

Planning to FINALLY bake: these cookies. William bought me some bread flour and cake flour. You're also probably wondering what these cookies have to do with my new diet. First, this is where portion control comes into play. Second, be quiet.

Christmas with the Coombs

2011-12-26T23:22:00.007-07:00

Here is the Coombs Family Interpretation of the Nativity Scene:

1. Two angels (one is very upset and the other is pre-occupied with Rapunzel's hair)

2. Chubbs playing a sheep (or some sad-looking camel)

3. A capsized Pirate Ship

4. A 20-pound baby Jesus

5. Four Shepards + one Joseph (although no one seems to know which one is Joseph)

6. Festive shoes

We don't know where Mary is either.

Christmas was wonderful. It always is at my mom's house.

It's time for another nonsensical list of my holiday happenings:

Mi Amigos Chimis and Enchiladas

Toffee. Lots of it.

"Single Ladies" London dancing

Grant dancing

Carson dancing and laughing

Easton playing the piano

Mitch playing the piano

Emerson break dancing ASU style

June refusing to dance

Cherries Jubilee

Santa bag on the doorstep

Excitement as gifts are collected

White Elephant

Bathroom jokes brought to you by the Potty Putter (or whatever it was called)

Christmas Story Lamp

Ron Swanson Pyramid of Greatness

Last Minute Christmas Shopping

Dinner at Sauce

Sacrament Meeting

Mom's Coffee cake & Bacon

Presents

New TV (WEEEEEEEE!!!!)

Watch movies

Flying helicopters

Eating

Full Stomachs

Sick

Sleepy

Merry Christmas to all and to all a good night

2011-12-22T00:20:00.007-07:00

Like everybody else on this planet, I've been busy the last few days. It seems like for every 3 things I accomplish, I usually add about 10 more things on my to-do list. I really should change my system.

Two things I'm excited for...

#1- My mom always plans an amazing Christmas dinner, which means two things: Plenty of delicious food and plenty of Christmas magic for the kids.

#2- William's family is coming to town next week for Alan and Jenny's Baby Blessing, which means two things: Plenty of delicious food and plenty of laughs.

Life is good in December.

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Reading: this talk. It's a good reminder of priorities during this time of year.

Watching: this trailer and this trailer. 2012 is going to be a good year for movies.

Writing: a list of goals for this next year. Much of it has to do with photography and cooking. And learning how to use watercolor paints. And possibly planting a garden. And organizing every square inch of my house. AND I'm already tired.

Laughing at: June's newfound love for clapping and dancing. OH. MY. GOSH. Just when I think she couldn't get any cuter...

World Premiere

2011-12-19T16:55:00.006-07:00

The wait is over:

Willy-B-Licious (William) and Pawz Jenkees (Me) present: "Frosting" featuring Mizz June.

Can you tell William's mixing skillz have improved? And Mizz June's sounds are seriously the "FROSTING" on the cake.

This is our 3rd Christmas we've written a song. It's probably my favorite tradition, you better believe we'll continue it. (I think by 2019, we'll release our Christmas album with all our songs, then rake in the royalties for the rest our lives.)

Here are past Christmas songs from previous years:

2010: Baby It's NOT that Cold Outside

2009: Gather Around (It's a Campfire Christmas)

(video by Robz)

Campfire Christmas Remix: Christmas Eve

(Can you tell I was thrilled to do this video?)

Merry Christmas World!

Awkward Picture of the Week

2011-12-14T20:19:00.004-07:00

If you look/listen really close to the above picture, I'm gritting my teeth and saying "TAKE THE DANG PICTURE. I'M HUNGRY." Truly.

We recorded our Christmas song today. I'm not gonna lie: it's our best one yet. I don't want to go too much into detail about our song before it's released, but if this was 1995, we would probably be a big deal.

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Listening to: our Christmas song, DUH.

Eating: toffee. So. Much. Toffee.

Elated: about me and my buddies being nominated for Harry Potter Fans of the Year. Please vote "Hailey and friends" here. It takes 2 seconds. Unless you vote twice, then it will take 4 seconds.

Anxious: about Christmas shopping. William and I still haven't gone yet. How many more days?

Watching: my favorite scene from Elf. ("Why is there a skeleton over there? If I squint he looks like a pirate flag.") When Will Ferrell screams after getting pricked, I think James Caan is laughing.

"Christmas Morning" Suppa Club

2011-12-12T22:19:00.004-07:00

Carli hosted Suppa' Club in December, and it didn't disappoint. We did a breakfast theme, paired up with a Christmas morning theme. Of course, we came in our PJ's and lined up in the hall (by age, notice the boys are in front)...

dashed upstairs...

and opened up our "gifts". (Carli wrapped our plates and silverware).

(I love Daphne's intensity in the above photo. If she's this intense now, I can only imagine what she's like on Christmas morning.)

And Carli even gave a little Christmas gift to June. It's a book called "You Will Be My Friend!" It's seriously the funniest book I've seen in a while. If you like forest creatures and bears that like to hug, you should really get that book.

Here's Carli reading it to a very attentive June:

As for the food, everything was AMAZING, of course. We served up yummy pancakes (go Ashlee), Bacon monkey bread (go me), fruit salad (go Carli), these maple scones (go Daphne)...

... AND Spinach Bacon Quiche. I didn't get a picture of the quiche because it was in the oven while I had my camera out. But it was amazing. Here's the recipe. It's a Paula Deen, so of course it's creamy deliciousness. William even loved it, and he's not a fan of quiche. Good job, Natalie.

Merry Christmas, Suppa' Club! And to all, a good morning!

P.S. My apologies to Ashlee for not getting any photos of you. I'm just going to handcuff the camera to my hands so I remember next time to get a pictures of everything and everyone.

Oh and I'm still amazed with Suppa' Clubs knowledge of Quiktrip food and the Kardashians. We are seriously destined to be together.

Bacon Monkey Bread - The Perfect Christmas Morning Breakfast

2011-12-12T21:57:00.004-07:00

This is a variation of this recipe, that I found on Pinterest.

It's a really good recipe for Christmas morning because there's hardly any work required. I served it up at this month's Suppa' Club and it was goooo-oood. I was in charge of bringing the meat, but I also wanted to make monkey bread, so why not just add bacon to it?

Bacon Monkey Bread (makes a dozen)

Ingredients:

-Refrigerated Biscuit Dough (Cut each biscuit piece into thirds)

-Butter

-Sugar

-Ground Cinnamon

-Sweetened, Condensed Milk

-12 slices bacon

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees

2. Line bacon onto cookie sheet that's covered with foil. Cook in oven for about 15 min, or until cooked thoroughly BUT NOT CRISPY. You need to be able to fold 'em up. Allow bacon to cool slightly.

3. Place 1/2 teaspoon of butter, teaspoon of sugar, and 1/4 teaspoon of cinnamon in each of the muffin tin cups. No mixing required.

4. Roll dough into walnut sized balls. Place 1 in each muffin tin. Then fold bacon into each muffin tin. Place other two dough pieces inside, with the bacon in the middle of the three dough pieces.

5. Add another 1/2 teaspoon of butter, 1/2 teaspoon of sugar, and a dash of cinnamon on top of the dough. Again, no mixing required. Here's what it might look like:

6. Bake for 15 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.

7. Remove from oven and immediately drizzle with condensed milk over each one. BE GENEROUS.

8. Enjoy the baconated Monkey Bread.

What I do when I'm sick.

2011-12-09T22:39:00.006-07:00

Here's me wrapping June's presents right in front of her face, as she plays with her plastic nativity set:

She kept lunging for those scissors... I guess I know what to get her for next Christmas.

It hasn't been an easy week. Whoever started this sickness craze should eat a tube of chapstick. First, William was sick. Just as he was feeling better, June and I got sick. June was a champ through her first brush with the common cold. I actually think I was more whiney than she was.

While I was sick, I stayed up late to window shop online for Christmas presents:

Just in case you feel generous, here's where to purchase those items: 1/2/3/4

You better believe I plan on wearing those shoes AND hat, WHILE riding that bike with William and June, WHILE our new puppy leads the way to QT.

Tonight William and I ate Chik-fil-A and wrote our annual Christmas song. It's gonna be a treat. We're debating on whether or not we should make a music video. We decided there's not enough video footage of us on Youtube.

Get ready.

Family Pics

2011-12-06T19:46:00.011-07:00

"Whoa whoa whoa whoa... Christmas is how many days away?!" -June

A BIG thanks goes to Debbie (seriously, thank you), our tripod + timer, and a patient Junebug for a good family photo afternoon.

Here's just a FEW of our pictures:

I'll show the rest and our Christmas cards when they're good and ready.

Yay for awkward family photos!!

Rudolph with your nose so bright...

2011-12-05T16:08:00.005-07:00

When William is sick, it's no fun around here. Not only am I doing everything I can to prevent June and I from getting sick, but William just simply isn't himself. It's hard to get things done around here.

So instead, I continue my holiday crafting.

I'm not sure if this is morbid or awesome:

I'm gonna say awesome now, then morbid when June is old enough to realize who Rudolph is.

And it only took a few supplies:

Paper-mached reindeer, wood plaque, wood stain, white spray paint, hot glue gun, and a red pom-pom. Saw the head off, spray paint it, stain the wood plaque, glue head and nose on, hang on wall, watch as children gasp in horror that Rudolph's head is mounted on your wall.

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Listening to: Harvest Moon by Neil Young. It's very calming. I'm not quite into the Christmas music yet... maybe when we break out our gingerbread houses.

Eating: Tillamook Cheese and Utah Apples.

Thankful for: talented people that do free printables. I saw that project on Pinterest and was planning on making it, but couldn't find a decent world map for cheap. Then Angela came along, and now all I have to do is print it out. Thank you imaginary friend of mine, Angela.

Anticpating: getting our family pictures taken tomorrow. We were rained out on Saturday, William was sick today, so we're trying again tomorrow.

So proud: to be featured on Mugglenet. Thank you Hilary and Harms!! Best Christmas present ever. Oh how I miss our Potter Parties!

He's makin' a list...

2011-12-02T23:24:00.009-07:00

2011 was a good year for us.

Probably because of this sweet face:

But there's still more to be done before the year is over.

Let the games begin...

Projects:

- Paint June's Room

- Paint Office Desk

- June's homemade gifts

Traditions (and possibly create more):

- Write and record Christmas Song

- Go to Temple Lights

- Make Gingerbread Houses

- Family Pictures

- Santa's grab bag

- Lots and lots of movie watching (see next list)

Movie + Flander's Hot Cocoa:

- Elf

- Home Alone

- Christmas Story

- Christmas Vacation

- Muppets Christmas Carol

Treat Yo Self 2011:

- Queen Creek Olive Mill

- Lucille's BBQ

- New TV

To Make and Eat:

- Dana Toffee

- Homemade pretzels and Jalepeno cheese Dip

- Disneyland Monte Cristo Sandwich

- Lemon Garlic Spagetti

- "The Best" Chocolate Chip cookies

- Homemade Cheesecake

- Laura's Butterscotch Rolls

- Baked Mac & Cheese

"Get the biggest aluminum tree you can find, Charlie Brown, maybe painted pink."

2011-12-01T21:37:00.006-07:00

December came really fast. It feels like just yesterday I was salivating over the Bacon-wrapped Thanksgiving turkey... and now I'm eating a chocolate piece from Day 1 of my Christmas advent calendar?

So on behalf of December 1st, I did my first Christmas craft.

I copied a $25-$38 Anthropologie holiday decoration, and made a few of my own using things I already had.

Bam:

3 jars, spray paint lids, hot glue mini trees inside lids, add a tiny pine cone, fill with sugar, then seal the jars... instant snow globes.

Pasta with Tomato Cream Sauce

2011-12-01T17:00:00.003-07:00

This

was

simply

a m a z i n g.

I found it on Pinterest, via Pioneer Woman.

Pasta with Tomato Cream Sauce

2 tbs Olive Oil

2 tbs butter

1 whole medium onion, finely diced

4 cloves garlic, minced

2 cans (15 oz each) tomato or marinara sauce

salt and pepper to taste

1 cup heavy cream

Grated Parmesan cheese to taste

FRESH basic, chopped

1 1/2 pound pasta

Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain, reserving 1 cup of pasta water.

Heat butter and oil over medium heat. Add onions and garlic and saute for a minute or so. Pour in tomato sauce and add salt, pepper, and sugar to taste. Stir and cook over low heat for 25 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Remove from heat and stir in cream. Add cheese to taste, then check seasonings. Stir in pasta and chopped basil and serve immediately. (Thin with pasta water before adding basil if needed.)

Lemon Drop Cookies

2011-11-30T23:25:00.004-07:00

I made these cookies for my sweet cousin Emily's baby shower. (Of which I would have loved to share photos, but I forgot my camera that night.)

I absolutely loved baking them. Not only do you get to zest an entire lemon, but you get to grind up lemon drop candies! (Do I sound lame? Well, it's nice to mix things up sometimes, okay?)

Lemon Drop Cookies (via See Jane Cook*)

2 c. sugar

1 1/2 cup butter flavored shortening

3 eggs

2 tsp. vanilla

1 tsp. lemon extract

4 c. flour

1 1/2 tsp soda

1 1/2 tsp baking powder

1 tsp. salt

Finely chopped zest of one lemon

1 (6-oz) package lemon drops (you can find these in the candy aisle at Target or Walgreens)

2 c. powdered sugar

juice of two lemons

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In mixing bowl, cream sugar, shortening, and eggs; add flavorings. Stir in dry ingredients, lemon zest, and crushed lemon drops (I crush them in my blender). Roll into balls, flatten slightly, and bake on parchment lined (if you don't use parchment, cookies will stick to pan) baking sheet for 10 to 12 minutes. Let cool slightly on pan for a couple of minutes. Make a glaze by mixing powdered sugar with lemon juice. Brush glaze over cookie tops. Let cookies cool completely. Makes 4-5 dozen cookies.

*Disclaimer: I know, I know... I use A LOT of recipes from See Jane. But seriously, can you blame me?!

It's written in the stars...

2011-11-30T22:55:00.004-07:00

...June's gonna have some good times with her cousins.

(I love this picture because it looks like their flying, so of course I had to add the stars.)

June got to meet some new cousins these last couple weeks.

The above cousin is Kensley, Alan and Jenny's new baby. She was born November 23rd (which also happens to be Kent's birthday... definitely a lucky day). I can't believe how huge June is compared to tiny Kensley. She is so beautiful. I can't wait to watch June and Kensley build forts and play house.

June was also privileged to meet Andrew (Laura and Steve's baby) when we went to Utah for Thanksgiving. Oh boy, is he a cutie. AND he was one of the most calm babies I've ever encountered, except in this picture:

I can't wait for Andrew and June to build forts and play ninjas.

Yes, it doesn't matter which cousin is involved, there WILL be plenty of forts being built.

June's First Band Photo?

2011-11-29T07:00:00.001-07:00

Here's how it happened.

We were getting ready for the day. I put June's jeans on, then had William hold her while I went down into the basement to get her a shirt.

Within about 30 seconds of going downstairs, I opened the door and encountered this:

They also filmed my reaction:

When I look back, I was actually not THAT surprised to see everyone with their shirts off... why is that?

A Bacon Blankie to keep the Turkey warm.

2011-11-29T00:25:00.006-07:00

Yeah you heard right... bacon blankie.

It's what David used to cover our turkey. Check out the beautiful weave pattern:

And that's pretty much how delicious our Thanksgiving meal was.

What is it about Thanksgiving that forces you to put hours of work into your meal...

... only to devour it in ten minutes?

It's a beautiful tradition.

Thankful Day 20-27

2011-11-28T06:00:00.004-07:00

My goal to do a "Thankful" post everyday in the month of November was just a little too much for the week of Thanksgiving. You'll understand why as you read on.

I call this photo "RED HAIR."

I'm sad because not everyone we spent the fun week with is in the above photo. (We'll try again next time.)

The following is a list of things I am thankful for during my week spent in Utah with my in-laws (in no particular order):

Michael's Talk

Pandemic

Andrew's Blessing

Bradford Time Zone

DP Cheesesteaks (with Jalepeno cream cheese)

Shopping

Biscuits and Gravy

Minor Sheep Threat Shirt (see above photo)

Thanksgiving Dinner

Breath

Leather Jacket

Daniel's Red Scarf

Cafe Rio

Pumpkin Gas

Baby Kensley's arrival

Tetris

Ripped Diamondback Shirt

Double Features

80's Bully David

Vitamix Smoothies

Ikea

Bacon Wrapped Turkey

Surprising Big David and breaking his bed

Denting Big David's car with basketball hoop

Kitchen Cooking arguments

Bonanza

Dirt Tooth Construction Projects

Dirt Tooth arguments about job title positions

Sleepless Nights

Back Seat Drivers

Everyone yelling that the rolls were burning and they weren't

Chapstick Smoothie

Nelli's (Martinelli's)

Tates (Potatoes)

Walk through Bethlehem

Old Man Angel sitting on high perch hidden in the corner

22 people sleeping in one house

Jam Sessions

Purchasing one refillable beverage but sharing it

Robs mad

Five Guys

Sonic tots in freezing cold weather

Old Navy Quick Change

Walmart Trips

Triple Double Oreos

Leather Jacket Draw the Line Dance

Tight gas

Spent $20 beating the Terminator Salvation Arcade game in a leather jacket

Uncle David dancing to Atlanta Rhythm Section

Vernors and Egg Nog

Everyone getting tough in car rides

Doesn't this list sound like the greatest week ever? I'll elaborate on a few of those later.

Also, it might sound like I'm complaining on a few things listed, but I promise I'm not. It was all good times.

Thankful Day 19

2011-11-19T06:00:00.003-07:00

This picture was taken a few weeks ago in our alley after a particularly stormy night:

When it's Saturday, and William is wearing his sweats and a t-shirt, he calls himself "King Saturday", whatever that means.

Today I am thankful that our tree is fixed and that we are flying up to Utah to spend an entire week of eating food, watching movies, playing music, and making jokes. And I'm also thankful that William and I can give ourselves nicknames and nobody judges.

Sincerely,

Possum Jenkins

Thankful Day 18

2011-11-19T00:16:00.004-07:00

Today I took pictures, but I left my camera at my mom's.

So here's one from about a month ago:

I don't know why I love this picture so much. I think it's because they both look so serious? Or bored? Thoughtful? Anyway...

Today I packed, cleaned, ran errands, did the laundry and cooked. I hate packing... but unpacking is even worse.

It was pretty much another boring day, that is, until dinnertime. Thanks Debbie and Russ for letting us invade your house for a few hours. I think my favorite part of the evening was hearing your William cheering for Harry Potter in the next room. That was the best. I also forgot to ask where you purchased that Pumpkin Cheesecake.

Today I'm thankful for funny friends and Pumpkin Cheesecake. And I'm thankful that we are finally taking our trip to Utah for Thanksgiving week. I can already hear William and his brothers wrestling...

Thankful Day 17

2011-11-17T22:43:00.007-07:00

Today June and I tried on a lot of hats.

I came very close to buying this one:

but then I realized that June looked too much like...

DANG. Why didn't I get that hat?!!

Today I'm grateful that June looks as awesome as the blonde guy from the band, Nitro. I love dressing up my girl.

P.S. I just wikipedia'd Nitro. The blonde is named Jim Gellete. YOU'RE WELCOME.

Thankful Day 16

2011-11-17T22:30:00.005-07:00

(This was supposed to be posted yesterday, November 16th... I'm getting pretty lazy with my own deadlines.)

Today seemed really really long. There isn't anything to report.

So I'll tell you a story instead.

A couple weeks ago, William and I were making our favorite snack: cheese quesadillas. June was playing in her bumbo on the counter. As I was eating my quesadilla, I looked over at June, who decided to try a sample of El Pato Sauce. It seriously looked as though she was ready to chug it down.

Luckily, William swept down and saved the day... but not before spilling it all over June's pants. Better her pants than her mouth, I guess.

That is some awesome sauce.

I am thankful that I have a husband who is quick on his feet, who probably saved our daughter from being scarred for life by our favorite hot sauce. Also, I am forever thankful for El Pato.

Winter Salad with Lemon Poppyseed Dressing

2011-11-16T16:13:00.002-07:00

Here's the salad I served at Suppa' Club.

It's just as delicious as it is pretty.

Winter Salad with Lemon Poppyseed Dressing (via See Jane in the Kitchen)

1/2 cup white sugar

1/2 cup lemon juice

2 tsp diced green onion

1 tsp Dijon-style mustard

1/2 tsp salt

2/3 cup vegetable oil

1 tbs poppy seeds

1 head Romaine lettuce

4 oz shredded swiss cheese

1 cup slivered almonds

1/4 cup dried cranberries

1 apple-peeled cored and diced

1 pear-peeled, cored and diced

Directions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine sugar, lemon juice, onion, mustard and salt. Process until well blended. Add oil in slow steady stream until mixture is thick and smooth. Add poppy seeds and process just a few seconds more to mix.
2. In a large serving bowl combine the lettuce, shredded Swiss cheese, almonds, dried cranberries, cubed apple and cubed pear. Toss to mix then pour dressing over salad just before serving and toss to coat.

Thankful Day 15

2011-11-16T08:48:00.008-07:00

(This should have been posted yesterday, November 15th.)

Today I caved and made caramels.

Making caramels is like camping. You have to prepare yourself very thoroughly if you are going to do it alone. There will likely be injuries. No matter how hard you try not to, you end up spending money on it. Then afterwards, you regret doing it.

Here's what happened:

-I PLANNED on making them while June and William took a nap. I got everything out, opened the butter, milk, and cream, pre-measured the vanilla, pans cleaned... I was ready.

-As it was boiling it occurred to me that it was going to overflow. I quickly poured some boiling buttered sugar into the sink, spilling it all over the stove and the kitchen floor along the way. I called William's name. He flew down the stairs thinking I had burned myself or caught the kitchen on fire.

- As William cleaned up my mess, I realized yet again, that it would boil over. We quickly got a larger pot. Unfortunately, the candy thermometer does not reach the caramel in the large pot, so William had to stand there over the steamy pot, holding the thermometer for 20 minutes while we waited for it to reach the right temperature.

- Just as it was about to reach the right temperature, William dropped the thermometer in the boiling caramel.

Uhhhhh.

Despite the failures, the caramel does taste pretty good.

Today I am thankful for a husband that woke up at 2:00am, came home late in the afternoon to take a nap, only to stay up another 45 minutes to help me with my annoying (but delicious) hobby.

Thanksgiving Suppa' Club

2011-11-15T09:00:00.002-07:00

This month was my turn to host Suppa' Club.

Dinner included: Quinoa with Vegetable Melange, Winter Salad with Lemon Poppyseed dressing, Spice-rubbed Turkey with Cranberry Barbecue Sauce, and Chocolate Pecan Cheesecake. It was probably my favorite Suppa' Club meal so far.

Want proof of our delicious food? Well, you're just going to have to take my word for it. We forgot to take pictures yet again. I'm tellin' you, when that food enters in, we can't help but reach for our forks (instead of our cameras).

I will post recipes another time. You better believe that I will be makin' those dishes again.

So instead, here are pictures of the party itself. This time, I decided to go with a Thanksgiving Native American theme. As foodies, I thought we owed it to them, since they showed the Pilgrims how to plant corn and all.

I just hope we weren't offensive in any way.

Yikes.

The guests arrived in their Native attire. We listened to "Sacred Spirits" internet radio station, which set the mood for the evening. We may have sang "Savages" from the movie 'Pocahontas', and "What makes the Red man Red" from the classic movie 'Peter Pan'. Following our feast, we played Bonanza (a game about planting beans... get it?). What an adventure.

The banner I made unintentionally became the "photo booth" backdrop. I just tore large strips of fabric, then sewed fabric scraps to make Native American-y designs.

The little ball garland is actually for my Christmas tree (an early Christmas gift from my mom), but I thought it went perfectly with the banner.

Sweet wolves (a perfect Goodwill find):

Dinner Table (I need to find more excuses to use that lovely dinnerware):

Centerpiece:

I know, the little pine trees look like Christmas. But I really wanted to capture the environment the Native Americans lived in when the pilgrims paid them a visit. And I'll be using them for Christmas too. (See? I'm killin' two birds with one stone, just like a Native American would.)

Suppa' Club, thanks for a super time. I did the math, and I'm in charge of the next Suppa' Club meeting in March, which just happens to be the same month Hunger Games is coming out in theaters, which probably means we'll be having a Hunger Games Theme. You know what this means: fighting to the death for our meal.

May the odds be ever in your favor.

Thankful Day 14

2011-11-14T22:22:00.005-07:00

I wanted to spread the love...

so I put the flowers from one bouquet into three jars, covered and tied with burlap.

Today I am thankful for Fresh & Easy. Their flowers are so cheap.

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Listening to: The Avett Brothers. Thank you, Carli.

Reading: Hunger Games. After watching the new trailer today (three or four times?), I decided it was time to read the book again.

Eating: Snyder's of Hanover Peanut Butter Pretzel Sandwiches dipped in Hershey's Milk Chocolate. 'Nuff said.

Finished Watching: Storage Wars... in like 3 days. Not a proud moment for me, but boy was I hooked.

Thinking about: making caramels tomorrow. I need to stop.

Thankful Day 13

2011-11-13T22:48:00.003-07:00

Today was splendid.

We had our Primary Program today, and while I sat with June in the audience, William sat with our Sunbeams on stage. He did a great job keeping things in control, although next year I'm going to suggest they give William a microphone during the singing parts.

Then we came home, ate lunch, napped, played, ate pizza for dinner, and drank hot chocolate for dessert (Hot chocolate + 1/2 Fun size Hershey Bar + Whipped cream = Comfort Drink). We always get really tired after drinking hot chocolate, so William went to bed early, while I spent some time catching up on my posts.

Again, June was a champ today. She slept in late enough for me to get ready in time. And getting her ready for church is becoming one of my new favorite things. (I decided I need to take more pictures of her in her Sunday outfits, I am loving dressing her up.)

One more thing about June that I absolutely love: when you know she's tired, all you have to do is give her a pacifier and blankie, place her in her crib, turn on her fan, turn off the light, and shut the door. That's it. She just goes to sleep, it's amazing.

Oh and she's into snuggling lately:

I hope this phase doesn't end soon.

Today I am thankful for our Sunbeams, snuggling babies, and hot chocolate.

Thankful Day 12

2011-11-13T22:28:00.005-07:00

(Again, busy weekend... this should have been posted Saturday, November 12th.)

Today was a little chaotic.

We had a community yard sale this morning. The Daniels came to keep us company and bring breakfast. We made 50 bucks, 20 more than we thought we would make.

While William went to the Primary Program Practice, I stayed home with June and got our house ready for tonight, our monthly Suppa' Club meeting. June was a champ today. She napped during times that I needed to do some serious work.

After that, William filmed a video. (More details about that later.)

Then it was Suppa' Club time. It was one of my favorite meals we've ever done. I'll post more on that later... but here's a sneak peek:

Today, I am grateful for good friends (the kind that bring breakfast to your yard sale and also the kind that dress up like Native Americans for good times).

Thankful Day 11

2011-11-13T22:18:00.005-07:00

(The last couple days have been extremely busy. This should have been posted on Friday, November 11.)

Today, I spent the day with mom organizing and cleaning my downstairs. I have some big plans for my house in the next couple months (and by 'big plans', I simply mean painting, organizing, rearranging, decorating, etc.) This was a good head start.

Here's a picture of June seeing our clean house for the first time in a long time:

Today I am thankful for a clean downstairs (I don't even want to talk about my upstairs), time spent with my mom (who brings a fresh perspective when it comes to organizing my house), and an understanding husband (he understands that I need Coke Zero at 7pm, so I can stay up until 1am getting ready for our yard sale on Saturday).

Thankful Day 10

2011-11-10T23:41:00.005-07:00

Today I worked.

For a few months now, I've been employed at The Law Office of Scott H. Coombs. It's good for me to spend a few hours there a week, because it reminds me how hard my dad works. It's not the most exciting job, but my dad is REALLY good at it.

Look at him, all business and talkin' bankruptcies:

But the best thing about my dad are his Grandpa skills:

Today I am thankful that my dad works incredibly hard, but he still has the energy to be a fun grandpa.

P.S. I'm also thankful to my mom for watching June while I'm at the office.

Thankful Day 9

2011-11-09T23:48:00.005-07:00

I'm too tired to upload new photos these last couple days.

So here's one from a few months ago:

My mom and I have this habit of becoming obsessed with something that is very difficult to find. We think it started when I was in high school and I wanted to find a specific pair of shoes that they apparently didn't make for the gargantuan hooves that are my size 10 feet. We searched store after store after store after store. And finally we found them.

Just last week, I wanted to get June a very specific pair of pants, and my mom and I searched four different Targets until we found them in her size.

And then today, we (yet again) were out to find this very specific holiday decor. We drove all the way to Phoenix to an extremely large store that didn't have exactly what I needed. We're still brainstorming other possible stores. Sometimes this habit is very annoying (but we like to call it 'adventurous').

I probably sound like a spoiled child, but that's beside the point. The point is, I have a selfless mom.

Today I am thankful for my mom, who would probably climb Mount Everest to get me these shoes in a size 10.

Thank you, mom, for going on adventures with me.

Here's a gift for you: It's a two minute and forty-seven second video of your two youngest grandchildren. The adorable-ness of this clip will make you want to squeeze them again. Enjoy.

Thankful Day 8

2011-11-08T18:41:00.004-07:00

I forgot to take a picture today, so here's one I took at our neighborhood Fall Festival a few weeks ago:

Isn't that piglet the cutest thing you've ever seen?! William and I kept saying he kinda looked like June, and then we would turn to June and say, "Aww!! Our little piggie!! Who's our little piggie?!", and then we'd hug her and squish her and kiss her and make pig noises.

Today I'm grateful that June is still very little and doesn't retaliate when William and I say offensive things to her.

Thankful Day 7

2011-11-07T23:07:00.004-07:00

I got so much done today:

1. Shredded documents for my dad

2. Ikea run with the Holly & C

3. Finished sewing some fall decorations

4. Made amazing pasta sauce (will share tomorrow)

5. Cleaned out car (It was disgusting)

6. I'm not sure if this counts, but after a few weeks of harassment, William finally got his haircut. He looks adorable.

And to top it all off, the sky looked like this ALL DAY:

Today I am grateful for old friends (with cute kids), Happy Hour at Sonic, fresh basil, and COLD weather.

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Listening to: Cassadaga by Bright Eyes. It's dreamy.

Eating: a banana. I actually shared it with June, her first time eating it. She liked it until she bit off a chunk, then she gagged.

Anticipating: Thanksgiving. You are not coming soon enough.

A little annoyed: at drivers lately. A lady honked at me today for something that was not my fault, and it woke up June. You think just because you drive a BMW, you can go around honkin' at everyone that gets in your way and wake up all the babies around you?! June will have her revenge.

Searching for: the perfect winter hat for June. So far, I've only found this one. $58? C'mon really?

Thankful Day 6

2011-11-06T22:51:00.005-07:00

Today in sacrament meeting, William shared his testimony on missionary work. It was really sweet. He talked about his experience in Utah this last week.

Here was the highlight:

This is a picture of Michael, just a few hours after he got home from his mission in Indianapolis (still in his missionary attire). He's hugging Daniel, who just opened his mission call and will be serving in Russia beginning in March.

This photo makes me so happy.

Today I am grateful for missionaries. You're the best people on the planet.

Thankful Day 5

2011-11-05T14:58:00.008-07:00

William and I have been snacking on tons of treats, including caramel apples (made by my lovely friend, Amy), cookie dough ice cream, donuts (Krispy Kreme Pumpkin Donut + Milk = HEAVEN. Thank you mom and dad!), and Carolina's tortillas (always a treat for me).

Today I am thankful for generous, treat-giving family and friends. I am also very thankful for treats, because unfortunately tomorrow William and I are starting a diet.

I'm not sure what our diet plan is... how can you expect us to have a strict diet in November and December?

Readers (both of you), feel free to leave any dieting tips. We're gonna need them.

Thankful Day 4

2011-11-04T15:58:00.007-07:00

Next January, Wilco is playing a concert at Gammage Auditoriam.

Two things you should know:

1. I love seeing shows at Gammage. (I saw Ben Folds there once. It is amazing.)

2. I LOVE Wilco. (I flew to Houston once just to see them. It was amazing.)

The day the Wilco tickets went on sale, William went to the box office and stood in line. When it was almost his turn, someone angrily yelled that they were selling "Single Seating" tickets only. Poor William and I would have to sit apart during the show.

But alas, a short time later, the ticket lady announced that they decided to open up the handicap row. Or in other words, THE FIRST ROW.

ROW ONE:

So next Janurary, William and I are sitting front row, (almost) center at one of our favorite shows from one of our favorite bands of all time. (And please refrain from the "William and Jenny are sitting in the handicap row" jokes, please?)

Today, I am thankful that William and I love the same music.

Thankful Day 3

2011-11-03T21:53:00.004-07:00

June and I love our walks. It's almost a daily routine. We usually go between 4-6pm, which in my opinion, is the part of the day that goes by the slowest. I think it's because we are anticipating William's return from work.

Today I am thankful that the weather is perfect enough and our neighborhood is pretty enough to enjoy our daily walks.

Crockpot Mexican Chicken

2011-11-02T21:54:00.005-07:00

William and I love this. I will be making it again and again and again and again and again.

Crockpot Mexican Chicken

(from See Jane in the Kitchen)

3 lbs boneless, skinless chicken

1 1/2 cups italian dressing

1 Tablespoon minced garlic

1 Tablespoon chili powder

juice of 1 lime

1/4 cup cilantro

Place chicken in a 4-6 quart slow cooker. Pour dressing over top and sprinkle with chili powder and garlic. Cover and cook for 7-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. Remove chicken from crock pot, shred with a couple of forks, then put back in crock pot. Cover and cook an additional 30 minutes. Add lime juice and cilantro.

Of course, I serve mine with this salsa... just plan on making that salsa on a weekly basis.