Buds and Blossoms

I was in awe this morning as I took a stroll around my backyard and saw our Apricot and Peach trees in full bloom.

Please Join Us

This is what I have been working on the for the past few months. When I was told that I had cancer and would have to have surgery, this is one of the many responsibilities that weighed heavily on my mind. I have worked so hard towards this musical program of the Savior Jesus Christ that I did not want to miss it.

I went to the doctor yesterday because she insisted on clearing me before I conduct tonight's rehearsal and the performance. I didn't have the heart to tell her that I would do it anyway, because she has been absolutely wonderful to me. She has given me the go ahead under strict orders to take it easy. Today is day 9 since having major surgery and although I have yet to feel myself, I am confident that the Lord will bless me to be able to follow through. Tonight rehearsal is bound to be interesting.

I am so grateful for those that took over for me while I was in the hospital, and those willing to jump right in should I not be able to follow through. THANK YOU! THANK YOU!

Please come and join us

this Sunday as we testify

of the Savior of the World

through song.

Pathology Report

The power of prayer is miraculous. I planned for the worst but instead I was given such tremendous news. I received the Pathology Report yesterday. They were able to remove all of the cancer during the operation! I feel so blessed.

Thank you to everyone who has called, e-mailed, sent cards and brought over meals. My heart is full of thanksgiving for your kindness and compassion.

I especially want to thank

my family who has been

there for me every step of the way.

They are truly AMAZING!

Now if I could just sit for more than an hour without being in horrible pain, things would be much better.

She is Home

This is Mar-Kay. Sabrina is now home from the hospital. She won't be very happy about having her pictures posted, but I did it for Brigitta. She was so concerned about Sabrina being lonely. I wanted her to see that her mommy took her snuggle buddy with her and used it. The nurses all thought it was sweet. Of course she was never lonely because I was with her the whole time.

The operation was a success. The CANCER was all contained within the uterus and so they removed her uterus, cervix and fallopian tubes. The final pathology report will be ready in two weeks, but all looks well. She is weak and very sore, but doing well. We hope to be able to keep her down so that she can recover quickly. That will be the hard part.

We are so grateful for the prayers and all of the help offered on Sabrina's behalf. Thank you!

My Snuggle Buddy

"Mom, I have been worried that you will

be lonely in the hospital.

Please take my snuggle buddy.

She will keep you company and will

make you happy until you get home."

Where would I be without

my Brigitta?

True Love

Thirty years ago today

I met my the love of my life.

Fruit and Nut Granola

This is the basis granola recipe our family enjoys, however we are constantly trying new additions or combinations which means breakfast is never boring. But don't stop there, granola is great sprinkled on yogurt or even ice cream. One of our favorites however is a fruit and granola parfaits made with layers of yogurt, fresh fruit and granola, and then we repeat the layer.



8 Cups Regular Oats
2 Cups of coconut
1/2 Cup of wheat germ
3 Cups of chopped nuts (almond, walnut, pecan, cashew etc...)
2 Cups dried fruit (raisin, cherry, blueberry, cranberry etc...)
1/2 Teaspoon salt
2 Teaspoons Cinnamon
1/2 Cup Pure Maple Syrup
1/2 Cup Honey
1/4 Cup Canola oil
3 Teaspoons vanilla



Start by mixing all of the dry ingredients together except the fruit.













Mix the wet ingredients stirring well. Pour over dry ingredents and stir well to coat the oatmeal. Pour into a baking dish.

Bake in a 300 degree oven for 30 minutes. Stir half way through.

Add the fruit when the granola has cooled a bit.

Enjoy!!!

One of our favorite granola's is Cherry Almond. I use only almonds for the nuts and dried cherries for the fruit. In place of the 3 teaspoons of vanilla I substitute 1 teaspoon of almond extract and 2 teaspoons of vanilla. I also leave out the cinnamon.

One of the things we love about making our own granola is being able to create what ever we are in the mood for.

This recipe fills up 3 quart sized zip-lock bags and will last about a week, unless Mar-Kell comes to visit and then they all seem to disappear. Love you Mar-Kell!