The Good Apple

Chewy Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

2012-02-01T09:51:00.000-08:00

I am always on the lookout for recipes with made with whole grains, no sugar, and taste good!

Houston, we have lift off!!!

These are dang good, but there is a secret - you have to use raw honey for these to come out fantastic. Plain old honey, works, but then these cookies are just okay. I buy my raw honey at Sprouts, or at local farmers markets. My husband ate so many of these and my son couldn't believe they were whole wheat!

I loved that they didn't have sugar. Enjoy!

Chewy Oatmeal Raisin Cookies

(Recipe from The Feel Good Cookbook)

Beat very well:

2/3 cup butter (organic, pasture based is best)
1/2 cup raw honey

Add:

1 tsp molasses
1 tsp vanilla
1 egg

Add and gently mix in:

2 cups whole wheat flour
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt

Add then stir:

1 cup rolled oats
1 cup raisins
1/2 cup shredded coconut

Form into balls on cookies sheet and bake at 350* for 10-12 minutes.

Creamy Potato Broccoli Chowder

2012-01-31T06:44:00.000-08:00

This was another meat free dinner I served last night. Pretty good. My 13 year old (and very picky eater) ate 3 bowls. My husband gave me permission to add it to the dinner rotation. The best part - it's very inexpensive and simple to make! I should have doubled this for my family of 5.

Creamy Potato Broccoli Chowder

(Recipe from My Feel Good Foods Cookbook)

8 peeled or unpeeled red potatoes (I peeled mine due to my picky eater. Makes a creamier soup. If it was just me, I would have left the peels on).
3 Stalks Celery, diced
1 onion, quartered
2 stalks broccoli, cut into chunks
1 tablespoon salt (or more to your liking)
1/2 cup healthy mayo (I used Veganaise brand that I buy from sprouts. I have never used regular mayo - not as good for you)

In a large pot, cover vegetables with water. Boil uncovered until tender (about 20 minutes or so). Transfer mixture into blender with a large measuring cup and puree all the ingredients. ( I did mine in batches.) Blend the Veganaise and salt in with the potato, broccoli puree. Warm and serve.

Favorite Meal - Beans, Rice, and Veggies

2012-01-30T08:06:00.000-08:00

I have been trying hard to "eat meat sparingly" lately. For me, I am trying to only cook meat for my family once a week, (typically for Sunday family dinner). That means I need to have good, healthy, filling, quick meals for my family who is always on the go. This has become our very favorite dinner, and everyone loves it - even my son who doesn't like beans and rice. They chow this down. I make a lot and store the leftovers in the fridge so they can throw a bowl together quick if they need to.

Beans and Rice

Easily serves my family of 5

(from the Engine 2 Diet Cookbook)

2 cans black beans, rinsed and drained
1 to 11⁄2 cups chicken stock, vegetable broth, or water
1 tablespoon Bragg Liquid Aminos, Tamari, or Soy Sauce
1 teaspoon chili powder
2 to 3 tomatoes, chopped
1 bunch green onions, chopped
1 can water chestnuts, drained
1 cup corn, fresh, frozen, or canned
2 red or yellow bell peppers, seeded and chopped
1 bunch cilantro, rinsed and chopped (key ingredient I think)
1 avocado, peeled and sliced
3 cups cooked brown rice
Salsa or tamari to taste (I like it without, I just make sure I have lot's of juice from the beans - great flavor!)

Heat the beans with water or stock, Bragg’s, and chili powder. Place the chopped vegetables and cilantro in individual bowls. To serve, place several big spoonfuls of brown rice onto large plates and ladle beans on top. Add generous handfuls of chopped vegetables, cilantro, and avocado on top of the beans. Add salsa or tamari to taste.

Walk in the Rain, Cozy by they Fire

2011-12-13T10:10:00.000-08:00

That title sounds romantic doesn't it? When it pertains to Rusty, it is anything but...

He didn't get his walk in on Sunday - we slept in.

It rained all day Monday, so again, no walk.

It was raining again this morning, but he was fed up and driving me crazy, so I finally agreed to walk him despite the rain.

Now he is enjoying drying off by the fire. He has it so tough.

Spoiled Dog!!!!

Damask Wedding Cake

2011-12-05T06:37:00.000-08:00

This is a cake I did for my cousin Rindy. I love how elegant it looks.

The calle lily's on top were so pretty!

Rusty (It's a love/hate thing)

2011-12-02T07:32:00.000-08:00

My friends and family know that I love my coonhound, Rusty. But I also am quick to tell them how much I can't stand him as well.

For instance....

He constantly raids my recycle bin and frequently litters the back yard!!

He never picks up after himself - EVER!!

He his sooooo naughty when he thinks no one is looking. If you aren't careful, he will lick the butter dish dry.

A closer look...

The other morning I kept hearing him bark (actually howl - he's a hound) but couldn't find him.

Eventually his howling led me to the side of the house where he had gotten himself tangled up in my tomato cages. Yeah, that was not fun trying to get him out!

But it made me laugh and I guess that's why we keep him around.

He definitely makes us laugh.

Orange, Fun, Birthday Cake

2011-11-21T06:27:00.000-08:00

Here's a fun cake I did for my friend Diane.

Fall Baby Shower Cake

2011-11-10T07:35:00.000-08:00

This was a really fun cake to make. I love the colors and flowers. I have a hard time molding people out of fondant. She did have a neck at one point, but it collapsed and so she is neck-less.

Electric Guitar Cake

2011-10-07T12:45:00.000-07:00

This is the cake I did for my brother-in-law's birthday. Super fun cake to make!!!

Circus Birthday Cake

2011-10-06T07:45:00.000-07:00

This was a fun cake with a "circus" feel to it. Chocolate cake with peanut butter buttercream.

Oh so good!!

Mind over Body - St. George Recap

2011-10-05T08:11:00.000-07:00

Eight years ago, I ran the St. George Marathon. Two weeks later I was at the doctors office being told I had an autoimmune disorder and would need to take medication for the rest of my life. That really knocked the wind out of my sail. Not only did I not feel in control of my body, I didn't feel good. I was tired all the time.

Fast forward 8 years. My friends signed up for the same race. I thought why not. I figured I wouldn't be able to run it, but I would go for the experience and just be happy I was there. I ran a few long runs with them about half way through training. My knees were hurting. I just keep telling myself I would walk, and it would be okay.

Race day. I am waiting at the start line with thousands of other runners. The energy is intense. All the sudden, I decided that I was running this race no matter what! The race began and so off we went.

Mile 6 I was aware of my knees - darn that tight IT band! I decided I didn't care and I was running anyway. It was exhilarating to push myself, force my body to do what it was screaming it didn't want to.

Soon I was at mile 13 and feeling pretty good. I had this!

By the time I hit mile 23 I couldn't feel my legs. Really! I started to get emotional. Not because of my legs, but because I was in charge of me. I felt so empowered that I was able to overcome my body. I felt like I was in control again. I am in charge and I will say when enough's enough - not my body.

I could hardly contain my tears as I crossed the finish line with my good friend Kaye. Not only did I finish the race, I ran it 3 minutes faster than I did 8 years ago.

What a wonderful day! I still can't walk up the stairs or sit down very gracefully, but I conquered! I am strong! It makes me happy!

Kaye and I in the back seat driving up to St. George.

Dinner that night before the race with Ruth, who was there to cheer her hubby and the rest of us on!

Tim, Billy, and I waiting to load the bus to take us to the top.

Here's the whole gang waiting in anticipation for the race to begin!

Kaye and I stuck together the whole race. It was fun to have a friend along the way.

I was about to fall over in this picture, but I was leaning on Kaye pretty heavy.

So happy to be done!

Big Bow Wedding Cake

2011-09-14T19:16:00.000-07:00

I always like a white wedding cake. This one was so pretty with a big bow and some bling in the front. It even tasted good as well!

Volleyball Cake

2011-09-11T19:30:00.000-07:00

Here's a cake I made for my daughter Allison's volleyball team at the end of the season.
Some of the balls are missing around the bottom of the cake cause
some of the girls couldn't wait for the picture.

They had a great season and made some great friends!

Flowers and Butterflies 90th Birthday Cake

2011-08-30T10:31:00.001-07:00

Arizona in the Summer

2011-08-28T10:52:00.000-07:00

Yes I tend to get a little salty and bitter when the Arizona summer temperatures creep up to the + 110's.

But when those beautiful, loud monsoon storms hit in August, there is nothing like it anywhere else in the US.

My son was actually inside playing on the computer, and I demanded that he put on his suit and get outside and enjoy the storm.

He gave me the " Ahh Mom" bit, but I would have none of it.

He was going to play in the rain and that was that. I am such a mean mom!

It's these sweet moments that make the summer's bearable. It's these sweet moments that make motherhood so fun!

Hawaii Trip 2011

2011-07-05T21:56:00.000-07:00

In April we went to Hawaii with 3 other couples. The first day we hit the shrimp truck. Mmmm good. Garlic breath the rest of the day!

I think we signed the truck somewhere!

Posing in front of the Hawaii temple.

We took a quad tour through a ranch where several movies were filmed. So pretty!!

Shane left his helmet on due to his fear of falling rocks.

The girls and I reenacted the Jurassic Park scene where they jump behind the fallen log. Apparently I was the only one who heard them say "jump"!

Jeff was shaking it at the Polynesian Cultural Center.

It was a fun evening and great entertainment!

Yummy treats and shopping with Meredith!

Jeff and I snuck away and took a helicopter tour of the island. Soooo scary!!!!!!

I loved it, but I was so scared! Jeff had them take the doors off the helicopter. Good thing I was in the middle!

Bummer I didn't get a picture of the beach house! It was beautiful and right on the ocean.

Our last night we had a nice dinner at the Turtle Bay Resort! Good food, good friends, wonderful night!

Can't wait to go back again! Kauai next time I think!

Making the Cut

2011-07-03T08:44:00.000-07:00

I had a friend ask the other day why I took her blog link off my blog. I felt terrible that she thought she didn't make the cut. (As if being linked on my blog is something to be desired)

The truth is, when I redid my blog a while back, I just never took the time to finish adding all my blog links. I still had them where I had access, just to lazy to finish putting them in on my sidbar.

Well, as you can see, I have changed things up a bit, and added as many of my friends and family links as I can think of. I was checking on you even if you weren't listed.

But I will say, if you drop off the face of the planet in the blogging world (Eldon), you might just get cut after all!

Little cute cakes

2011-06-10T08:00:00.000-07:00

Here are three cakes my cousin Alice requested for three retirees at her children's school. I thought they were simple and very cute!

Super Size Me

2011-06-02T16:28:00.000-07:00

Nathan is a funny little man. He spent the whole day last Saturday with his dad. They were at the mall food court and split up because they both wanted different things. Jeff gave Nate a $20 stood him in line. Nate told his dad he wasn't that hungry, so off he went to his line. I think Nathan loved that he got to buy his own food. He ordered a calzone, 2 breadsticks, and an extra large drink - HA!

He didn't eat even half of it, and we typically order the kids water. It looked good though!

Gluten, Dairy, Sugar Free Blueberry Muffins

2011-05-24T19:54:00.000-07:00

I couldn't resist playing around with this recipe some more. I took out the gluten, dairy, and sugar, and it turned out pretty good. Pretty dang good. They are kinda chewy because I used so many oats. I like it that way, but you could use less of the pulverized oats and more gluten free flour if you want.
I ate 3. In a row. Ugh.

Gluten, Dairy, Sugar Free Blueberry Muffins

*1/2 cup gluten free flour

*1 cup pulverized gluten free oats. (Put oats in a blender until smooth like flour)
*1/4 plus 1/8 cup Truvia ( I didn't have an 1/8 cup so I just eyeballed half of the 1/4 cup. Truvia is expensive, but you only use a little. If you use another stevia powder check the sweetness. It should be equivalent to 3/4 cup sugar)
*1/4 cup gluten free oat bran
*1/4 cup regular gluten free oats
*1/4 cup ground flax seed
*1 teaspoon baking powder
*1 teaspoon baking soda
*1/2 teaspoon salt
*1 generous cup blueberries
*1/2 generous cup chopped pecans or walnuts
*1 banana, mashed
*1 cup almond milk
*1 egg
*1 tablespoon expeller pressed canola oil or regular oil
*1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease a 12 cup muffin pan, or line with paper muffin cups.
In a large bowl, stir together the flour, oat flour, truvia or stevia, oat bran, oats, ground flax, baking powder, baking soda and salt. In a separate bowl, mix together the mashed banana, almond milk, egg, oil and vanilla. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry, and mix just until blended. Gently stir in the blueberries and walnuts. Pour into muffin cups, filling all the way to the top.
Bake for 15 to 20 minutes in the preheated oven, or until the tops of the muffins spring back when lightly touched. (Mine cooked for 20 minutes)

Healthy Blueberry Muffins

2011-05-19T07:44:00.000-07:00

I am a sucker for a good breakfast muffin. I tinkered around with this recipe and it came out quite delicious and nutritious. My mom stopped by and agreed, these are a winner! Enjoy!

Healthy Blueberry Muffins

1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup whole wheat flour (next time I would use all whole wheat)
3/4 cup coconut sugar (can use white sugar as well)
1/4 cup oat bran
1/4 cup quick cooking oats (I used regular oats)
1/4 cup wheat germ (didn't have any so I used ground flax seed)
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup blueberries
1/2 cup chopped walnuts
1 banana, mashed
1 cup buttermilk (didn't have any so I used regular milk mixed with a cap full of vinegar, next time I will try almond milk)
1 egg
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease a 12 cup muffin pan, or line with paper muffin cups.
In a large bowl, stir together the all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, sugar, oat bran, quick-cooking oats, wheat germ, baking powder, baking soda and salt. Gently stir in the blueberries and walnuts. In a separate bowl, mix together the mashed banana, buttermilk, egg, oil and vanilla. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry, and mix just until blended. Spoon into muffin cups, filling all the way to the top.
Bake for 15 to 18 minutes in the preheated oven, or until the tops of the muffins spring back when lightly touched.

Happy Memories

2011-05-05T06:13:00.000-07:00

Jeff get's tired of Disneyland after a while. Not me! I love it!

It's probably because he has a weak stomach when it comes to roller coasters.
I could ride on them all day and never get sick.

California Screamin is my favorite! I love the anticipation when the rides is about to blast you off! Good times!

Zoot and Junie

2011-05-03T08:26:00.000-07:00

Grandpa Carl and Grandma Junie turned 90 this year!

Shari threw a fabulous party in their honor.

Of course I couldn't wait to do the cake!

Shari decorated in checks and I made the cake to match.

My Monsters

2011-05-02T08:50:00.000-07:00

I think as a mother, I am constantly striving for my children to love and respect each other. I wish they would never fight, and belittle each other. Sometimes I feel like it's a losing battle.

Last week, these two monkey's declared that it was twin day at school and they wanted to be twins! I was thrilled that they chose each other instead of another friend. But what the heck was I to dress them in? I took them to Walmart and told them to look around and see what they could agree on.

Who doesn't love cookie monster? They marched off to the bus hand in hand as I waved goodbye from the front door. I smiled for the rest of the day.

I love these two monsters!!

Jeff's 40th Birthday Cake

2011-02-23T12:43:00.000-08:00

I never did post a picture of Jeff's Birthday cake. It was a 70's themed party (the year he was born). The cake was... well... GROOVY!! (And delicious!)

My "not so little anymore" athlete.

2011-02-09T14:32:00.000-08:00

This past December Allison and Jeff competed in a triathlon. I sat this one out this time, but honestly I had just as much fun watching Allison compete. She is ultra competitive (don't know where that comes from).

Here she is hanging by the pool with the boys (which she beat by the way).

She is all fired up coming out of the pool.

She transitioned well and took off on my bike. It's a little big for her, but she did pretty good on it.

Here she comes into the final transition.

She place 3rd overall and 1st in the girls division. She is still so mad those 2 boys beat her!

I am one proud mama!

Brief Pause

2011-01-26T21:30:00.000-08:00

Yes,
I am still here.
My head is spinning a little.
But I am getting the hang of this working, going to school thing.

Give me a little time and I might just figure out how to add blogging back into the picture.

In the meantime, I am going to "the happiest place on earth" very soon.
I can't wait. I love Disneyland and always will.

See you when I get back!

Working

2011-01-03T09:34:00.000-08:00

Well, I officially start working tomorrow (officially meaning some steady, set hours). Job description: keep the cupcake counter stocked with pretty and delicious cupcakes, and make decorations for specialty cakes. Can I do this, be a wife, mother, go to school, train for the next race, and be a great cub scout den leader? I sure hope so! Here's to a new year!!!!

PS - If you live in the Gilbert area, drop on by and check us out! Designer Cakes is located across the street from the San Tan Mall right by Carrabba's restaurant. You won't be disappointed!

Thoughts of a tired mom after Christmas.

2010-12-25T23:33:00.000-08:00

Why is it I can't wait to see this on Monday. I enjoyed the holidays this year, but I admit, I am ready for them to be over. Oh how I wish I didn't feel this way. I remember being so heartbroken as a child when Christmas decorations would be packed away until next year. Right now I am tired of looking at them.

I wish all the presents and commercialism and busyness of Christmas would just go away. Ha! That sounds great in theory, but I play into it as much as anybody. I wouldn't mind just a simple Christmas with minimal gifts and a lot more service. How does one accomplish this? How do you get away from the mad rush, endless shopping, and everything else that pulls at your time and detracts from the real meaning of the season?

Wouldn't it be great to pack up the family and head to a third world country for Christmas. I would love for my children to fully realize how good they have it. How blessed they are, and how little they really need, and how much they could do for others.

Oh hum. I will try harder next year to slow it down, have quiet Christmas moments, teach my children about our Savior and why we are celebrating. I will try to tone down the gifts and still not disappoint the teenagers (that is quite a feat). It has to be possible right?

I truly love the Christmas season. I love the Christmas story. I am grateful and forever indebted to my Savior, Jesus Christ. This needs to be my focus, my center, and my strength in the seasons to come. The Christmas Spirit was here this year, I just forgot to slow down and look for it and take time to let it sink deeper into my heart.

You know, just recognizing it at this moment, suddenly makes me feel better and know that I will have many bright and special Christmases in my future.

Merry Christmas, and a happy Christ centered New Year!

Christmas Food Court Flash Mob, Hallelujah Chorus - Must See!

2010-12-16T07:31:00.000-08:00

I would like to think that I would have joined in the fun! I actually started tearing up while watching this! Enjoy! (It's a lot clearer if you watch it on YouTube)

Beautiful Cake!

2010-12-13T18:57:00.000-08:00

Brittany, my hairdresser, just happened to be getting married.

How convenient - I happened to decorate cakes!

It was meant to be! Isn't it beautiful!

(It tasted amazing too - white cake with fresh whipped cream and ripe strawberries - mmmmm)

Date Night with the "Beloved"

2010-12-12T20:05:00.000-08:00

Nathan, (also known as the beloved by his 2 older sisters) got to spend a night out with mom and dad this weekend. On the agenda - Suns game!!!

He was pretty excited to get to go out with us all by himself.

We had some pretty sweet seats. One of the suns cheerleaders stood right in front of us periodically and shook her stuff not wearing much stuff. Lovely. When she wasn't disrupting my view and distracting my dates I realized that Steve Nash really isn't that short - the other guys are just freakishly tall.

We had a great time munching on junk food and cheering with the crowd. I sure love these two guys!

Almost there!

2010-12-06T18:51:00.000-08:00

Finals are coming up. I need to study like crazy. Can't wait until next week so I can start doing this!

Oh Santa!

2010-12-06T08:15:00.000-08:00

Nathan thinks he is to big to sit on Santa's lap. So some of his friends decided that he indeed needed to sit on his lap, and forced him there. Look at the grip Santa has on his wrist just to keep him still for the picture.

Allison and and her friend Cameron had no trouble at all posing with the big guy!

Oh how I miss the good ole days when my kids were little and slightly scared of the man in red.

A Cold Thanksgiving

2010-11-29T07:56:00.000-08:00

So we made it to Utah for the holiday, just in time for the cold temperatures to set in. As we sat around Thanksgiving morning, we decided to give the Y mountain a try. After all, it's ONLY 16 degrees outside - how bad can it be?

Actually, it really wasn't that bad. Once you got movin that is.

Yes, that's me in my ASU sweatshirt. Go Devils!

Allison and Randi were so hot from the hike, the steam was coming off their backs.

On Friday we checked out the LDS Church History Museum in Salt Lake. Pretty cool. Did I mention it was cold outside?

We headed indoors for a bit to warm up - loaded the kids with hot chocolate - then made our way outdoors again to see the Christmas lights on temple square. Very pretty.

After that, we took them all to a hot dinner at the Blue Iguana in Salt Lake. (It's official! I can never move to Utah! I would die without good mexican food.)

Thanksgiving Madness

2010-11-22T13:42:00.000-08:00

Cleaning, packing, studying, and running around like crazy! We are headed out of town to see the fam for the holiday. Sheez, I am pooped! Can't wait for some relaxing time with the gang cuddled around the fire cause it's going to be cold where we are headed! Hope your holiday is a good one!!!

Brownies From Scratch

2010-11-18T07:29:00.000-08:00

Allison asked me yesterday, "Mom, do you think we could have a treat in our lunches?"
"I put treats in your lunches every once in a while" I said.
She looked at me funny, "Mom, really? When was the last time?"
"Okay, okay" I replied. "What treats do you want in your lunch?"
"Brownies!"

I am not a big fan of brownies - especially because of the ingredients on the box mix. (Partially hydrogenated oil for instance).

So I searched for a brownie recipe from scratch and found a winner!!!! Seriously - these are really easy and good! I admit that I was to lazy to sift anything - it still turned out great. These taste better the next day for some reason. Resist eating them right out of the oven.
Here ya go!

Cocoa Brownies

Ingredients

Soft butter, for greasing the pan
Flour, for dusting the buttered pan
4 large eggs
1 cup sugar, sifted
1 cup brown sugar, sifted
8 ounces melted butter
11/4 cups cocoa, sifted
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1/2 cup flour, sifted
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

Directions

Preheat the oven to 300 degrees F. Butter and flour an 8-inch square pan.

In a mixer fitted with a whisk attachment, beat the eggs at medium speed until fluffy and light yellow. Add both sugars. Add remaining ingredients, and mix to combine.

Pour the batter into a greased and floured 8-inch square pan and bake for 45 minutes. Check for doneness with the tried-and-true toothpick method: a toothpick inserted into the center of the pan should come out clean. When it's done, remove to a rack to cool. Resist the temptation to cut into it until it's mostly cool.

Alton Brown : food network

Finding the Fire

2010-11-17T07:50:00.000-08:00

I think my husband has talked me into an olympic distance triathlon in March. I have always been competitive and loved to push myself, but over the last few years, I seemed to have lost my fire.

I don't know why that is exactly. Maybe because my kids are busy with sports and school and homework. Maybe it's because I am busy making cake. Maybe because I went back to school. Maybe it's because of health problems. Maybe because my body is getting older and doesn't recover quite as fast as before. Whatever the reason, I just lost it.

But I really miss that part of me. I want her back. I want to allow myself to compete and let a little of my competitiveness go. No need to win the race - just enjoy the ride - right?

So as I am stepping it up again - getting myself out of bed at 5 am - I am rediscovering the old me - the fire. It is good. I like this.

I think it might just be the trash talk that will soon come into play and my deep rooted desire to beat my husband in the race so I can gloat for months afterwards - who knows? All I know is SHE'S BACK!

Win or lose - GAME ON!!!!!!!!

Just Dance

2010-11-14T20:45:00.000-08:00

Favorite game on the Wii. I got moves!

Caught!

2010-11-13T07:23:00.000-08:00

Rusty is not allowed on the furniture in our home. He is actually really good about this and we never have a problem - EXCEPT for the bean bag on the floor. He KNOWS it's off limits, but occasionally when we are away, we will come in and find this. He curls himself up into the tiniest ball possible, in hopes that we might not see him there. Then he always acts so surprised when he does get caught.

He really is a naughty dog and I have considered sending him to the sausage factory!!

Silver Anniversary Cake

2010-11-12T07:19:00.001-08:00

Simple and sweet

Back to School

2010-11-10T17:56:00.000-08:00

Did I mention I went back to school? Well I did. Here's a few things I have learned so far...

I like math.
I am fascinated by my professors. Some are extremely eccentric and I find myself wondering what kind of lives they lead when not in the classroom.
Irresponsible 19 year olds drive me crazy. We all are busy - so get over it and do your homework!
Running a household and homework don't mix.
I wish I knew what I know now back then.
I wonder what all these 19 year olds think of this almost middle aged women raising her hand.

I can't believe this semester is almost over. Wonder what I will learn in the next!

Enchanted Cake

2010-11-10T14:06:00.000-08:00

Sammi and I worked on this cake for a 10 hour project she needed for her church class. The theme of the night was "Happily Ever After". The room was decorated as an enchanted forest. How cool was that!

Elegant Wedding Cake

2010-10-17T19:47:00.000-07:00

Last week I worked with stencils. I love the way it looks! So pretty. To bad I only have a picture from a phone.

airplane cookies

2010-10-01T14:49:00.000-07:00

I made these for Mason's birthday. Super cute!

Pretty Cake

2010-07-27T19:33:00.000-07:00

I made this cake for a little girls baptism. So pretty. I love the white on white!

Angie's Cake!

2010-07-26T10:27:00.000-07:00

This cake had three of Angie's favorite things on it. My favorite was the kindle on top.
Laurel wrote the story and we printed it onto a fondant sheet with edible ink. Pretty cool!

Cousin Camp

2010-07-09T08:19:00.000-07:00

It's that time of year again. The kids are getting ready to head to San Diego to spend the week with their cousins! They are crazy with excitement. The hubby and I don't know what we will do with ourselves. Oh yeah - scratch that! We are headed to Seattle for a fun filled week doing whatever we feel like! WhooHooo!

Peanut Butter Jelly Cake

2010-05-27T08:39:00.000-07:00

For teacher gifts this year, I made the kids peanut butter jelly sandwich cakes for their teachers. It's white cake, layered with peanut butter buttercream and homemade strawberry freezer jam. It's really good! I love the giant ziplock bag! Adds a nice touch!

Just Plain Adorable

2010-05-20T11:51:00.000-07:00

Here's a cake I did for a two year olds birthday. Seriously - I think this is the cutest cake. It's a take off of the first stacked I did a long time ago. It was yummy lemon cake with fresh lemon buttercream. Yum!!!

Todd Heap 30th Birthday Cake!!!

2010-05-12T16:10:00.000-07:00

A while back I was asked to make a cake for Todd Heap's (Baltimore Ravens) 30th Birthday.

Apparently when you turn 30 in the NFL, you are considered over the hill. His wife asked me to sculpt Todd in a wheelchair on top of the cake. The rest of the tiers are loaded with detail and different sayings that have personal meaning to Todd. This is by far one of the most fun cakes I have worked on. The bottom tier represents the 3 football teams Todd has played for as well as the cookie favors that were passed out to the guests at the party.

Mary Engelbreit Cake

2010-05-10T08:13:00.000-07:00

I made this cake for my cousin Debbie's daughter. She told me she liked Mary Engelbreit - so I tried to capture of little of her style in this cake. I thought it turned out really cute!

Online Photography Classes

2010-05-07T00:00:00.000-07:00

My sis-in-law is teaching a 4 week online photography course. I have signed my teenage daughter up in hopes that she will become an expert and help me out. (She LOVES to take and edit pictures).

So if you find yourself in need of some help with the camera or have a kiddo that needs something to do this summer - click here and check it out!

Castle Cake

2010-05-06T20:17:00.000-07:00

I made this cake for Kendall's birthday. Seriously - could there be a cuter cake for a 4 year old?

Cell phone cake!

2010-05-06T20:08:00.000-07:00

Again I forgot my camera so this phone shot will have to do. This was a cake modeled after the birthday girls phone she was getting for her birthday. It looked better in person.

Shoe cupcakes!

2010-05-06T19:57:00.000-07:00

I made these for my friend Becky who was throwing a bridal shower for her niece who LOVES shoes. I made the shoes out of candy melts and added a fondant flower. They were really cute - to bad my real camera had a dead battery.

Wedding Cake

2010-04-29T12:59:00.000-07:00

Here's another cake I got to work on at the shop last week. Turned out cute.

Ragnar LA

2010-04-28T14:45:00.000-07:00

I must be getting old. Ragnar Relay's are fun, but oh so exhausting. 200 miles, 12 people, no sleep! The weather was beautiful in California, and I felt good running! Now I have to make a cake and paint my bedroom. Not quite as much fun, but at least I get sleep!

Simple Cake

2010-04-27T06:50:00.000-07:00

Here's a cake I got to work on last week. I love how simple it is. It matched the brides invitations.

Ruffle Cake

2010-04-26T12:18:00.001-07:00

Baby Shower Bird Cake

2010-04-08T16:02:00.000-07:00

Here's a cute cake I did for a baby shower. Simple and Sweet!

Tackle box Cake

2010-03-29T07:54:00.000-07:00

This cake went along with the purse cake - a hubby and wife thing. I love the way the tackle box turned out. The Coors light can was tricky. I love the fishing lures - very realistic!

Purse Cake

2010-03-29T07:53:00.000-07:00

80th Birthday Cake!

2010-03-24T08:32:00.000-07:00

I made this cake for my friend Melanie. She threw a party for her mother who was turning 80. It's a very personal cake. The top tier represent her 8 children.

The middle tier has potted violets with her favorite things listed on the pots.

The bottom tier has two scenes - Arizona and the coast of Maine where her mother has lived.

I thought it turned out pretty cool!

Shark Cake

2010-03-23T08:11:00.000-07:00

April, Heather, and I worked on this cake together. I decorated the shark, April decorated the bottom tier, and Heather made the white chocolate sea shells. Seriously the coolest grooms cake!

Zoo Cake and Cupcakes!

2010-03-18T00:00:00.000-07:00

April and I had to finish this one in a hurry. I worked on the cupcakes - she pulled off the rest! Turned out pretty cool!

Black Striped Wedding Cake

2010-03-17T11:05:00.000-07:00

Here's a wedding cake I worked on last weekend. Horizontal stripe are soooo hard! But the finished product was very elegant

Ivory Wedding Cake

2010-03-16T07:09:00.000-07:00

I made this cake for my cousin's wedding. I loved the way it turned out. Very sweet and pretty!

Working at the Shop

2010-03-09T07:41:00.001-08:00

I got to put some hours in at the cake shop this weekend! I always have so much fun when I am down there. April is so good at what she does and it's fun to learn from the best! Here's a few things I got to work on - Denim and Diamonds cake and 140 sunflower cupcakes! Love them!

Golf Cake

2010-03-01T19:14:00.000-08:00

Here's a cake I did for a friend's 50th birthday. It looked bigger in real life. I had never sculpted people before, so I was happy that they remained standing. The tree was something I had never done as well. First I sculpted it out of rice crispies, then covered it in fondant. I cut out each leaf and added veining to it. Then I put the names of all his family members (the family tree). It looked pretty cool. Shwew!

Cub Scout Cake

2010-02-17T07:55:00.000-08:00

Last night was my son's Blue and Gold Banquet for scouts. You can bring a cake that celebrates 100 years of scouting. Nathan begged me to do a really cool cake. I think it turned out pretty cool!

Cupcake Cakes!

2010-01-26T07:52:00.000-08:00

These little cakes were for twin girls turning 1 year old. They were even cuter in person.

Strawberry Shortcake Cake

2010-01-25T12:55:00.000-08:00

Here's a fun strawberry shortcake themed cake. I love the strawberries on top. Everything was all sparkly and cute.

40th Birthday Cake

2010-01-16T21:27:00.000-08:00

This cake cracks me up. It was for a 40th birthday party with a geriatric theme. Everyone dressed up like old people - the tables were decorated with depend diapers and pill bottles.

The cake went perfect with the party theme. I had a few more things I wanted to do to it, but I ran out of time. All the lettering took forever.

Natalee's Wedding Cake

2010-01-05T16:07:00.000-08:00

Natalee designed this cute cake for her wedding. It turned out really elegant!

Love Him!

2010-01-04T11:33:00.000-08:00

Sammi's 14th Birthday Cake

2010-01-03T21:03:00.000-08:00

I made this cake for my daughter's 14th birthday party. Someone broke the cute fondant "14" on the top of the cake before I took a picture - big bummer! (That's why I cut it out of the photo)

But we put big funky candles on top and it still looked really cute. The top layer was chocolate with peanut butter buttercream (Yum!) and the bottom layer was cookies and cream with cookies n cream frosting (Super Yum!)

Austin's Birthday Cake

2009-12-23T07:49:00.000-08:00

I made this cake for a 10 year old boy. It was lemon cake with lemon zest buttercream. Soooo Good!!

Rusty the Hunter

2009-12-19T09:23:00.000-08:00

Rusty is a Redbone Coonhound (ya know, like on "Where the Red Fern Grows"). They are bred for their tracking skills - more specifically - racoon tracking. Rusty likes to chase anything furry really - cats, rabbits, squirrels, etc. He doesn't care much about birds. It's fun to see him get excited when he sees a bunny and chases it. The hair on his neck bristles, and he starts baying with all his might. (It's really something to hear him howl. It sounds similar to a beached seal crossed with a wolf howling at the moon.) He never catches anything, but he sure gets all worked up when he sees one.

Well, recently we brought Rusty up north with us as we stayed at a cabin with friends. He was in heaven- his "sniffer" was really working. Early one morning, we were wandering around in front of the cabin with Rusty and the kids. I spotted a fat squirrel on the ground and alerted Rusty. His ears instantly perked up and he waited for me to point the way so he could follow the scent. Now mind you, I knew he would never catch the squirrel as we were surrounded by trees and Rusty can't climb trees obviously. I just wanted him to have a little fun in the chase.

Well, he instantly spots it and takes off to tree that squirrel. The squirrel realizes it had better move and instantly darts up the closest tree. Here's where it all went wrong! The squirrel decides it doesn't like that tree and comes back down to go to another tree. (What this squirrel was thinking I will never know.) That was all the time Rusty needed. He snatched that squirrel by the back and proceed to throw his head back and forth as fast as he could. (You know the way dogs do when you are playing tug of war with a rope).

The children all watched in horror as Rusty continued to break the poor little squirrels back with his death grip. The squirrel even let out little high pitched yelps. "Oh what have I done?" was all I kept thinking. I just wanted him to chase the squirrel up a tree and then start baying and howling. Not this!

The whole thing happened so fast, but here's a run down of the dialogue I had with Rusty during the tragic event.

"Rusty!! Look Rusty, it's a squirrel! Rusty go get the squirrel! (I said this in my most excited voice, almost like a mother to her toddler). Rusty get the squirrel!! Oh No Rusty! No Rusty - drop the squirrel - bad Rusty! ( My voice was not so excited anymore - more disgust and concern - like when you witness your child throwing up) Oh Rusty, stop!!! What are you doing Rusty. Drop it - Drop it!"

Here's a picture of the squirrel as it meagerly tried to climb the tree with it's front paws (it's back legs just dangled because of the broken back) after Rusty let him go.

It finally dropped to the ground and wriggled in pain.

Shane decided it was cruel to let it suffer and put it out of it's misery.

Despite my disgust, Rusty was quite proud of his kill.

The boys (only a boy would do this) cut off it's tail and mounted it to the side of the cabin.

EEEwwwwwww! Gross!

Do all squirrels have such nasty teeth?

Oh - I needed this!

2009-12-17T08:06:00.000-08:00

When I have a Moment to Spare...

2009-12-13T21:38:00.000-08:00

I have a funny Rusty story coming (for you Leslie).

Some great recipes to share (for you Nancy).

A gingerbread house (seriously insane).

And 2 more cakes to post.

Crazy busy at the moment.

Will try to post soon.

Promise to do better in 2010.

Rest in Peace

2009-12-11T07:50:00.000-08:00

Yesterday morning, my daughter came downstairs in tears, to inform me that Tina had passed away.

We received Tina (named after "Tina the fat lard" on Napoleon Dynamite) last year as a white elephant gift. My daughter lovingly took the pet for her own and has cared for her faithfully for the last year.

When she wasn't looking, I put some gloves on and gently laid Tina in the green recycling bin.

Goodbye little hamster! Now we might get some sleep without you running on your wheel all night.

Just the same - we will miss you!

Chelsea's Wedding Cake

2009-12-06T21:04:00.000-08:00

This cake went really well with the brides decorations. It was very fun and cute!

Fall Daisy Cake

2009-11-03T08:49:00.000-08:00

This person wanted a fall cake with daisies. Here's what we came up with. It was soooo yummy. Pumpkin cake with a pumpkin cream filling.

Topsy Turvy

2009-10-07T14:14:00.000-07:00

I just finished this birthday cake for Tatum. My first attempt at a topsy turvy cake. A little tricky - but not to bad for my first try.

Freedom

2009-10-05T16:47:00.000-07:00

I loved this video.

Star Wars Cake

2009-09-25T16:14:00.000-07:00

I just finished Nathan's birthday cake. He obviously loves Star Wars. He thinks he's getting cupcakes on his birthday, but I made this while he was at school today. We are going to play Darth Vadors theme music when we walk in with the cake! Tee Hee! I am having way to much fun!

Don't you love the Darth Vador and star candles? Too cool!

Music Cake

2009-09-14T10:10:00.000-07:00

I made this cake for Kevin's (my brother-in-law) birthday. He's quite the musician! The top tier looks lopsided in this picture, but it actually stood straight up. Camera angles....

Adoption Cake

2009-08-30T17:41:00.000-07:00

Uno Cake

2009-08-26T07:33:00.000-07:00

I am such an airhead. A couple wanted this cake for their 1 year olds birthday party. The whole time I am making the cake I am thinking -"one year olds can't play uno". Then someone said to me...."UNO = ONE". Duh. I felt sheepish. Pretty cute idea - I am just a little slow.

Funky and Fun Present Cake

2009-08-25T09:42:00.000-07:00

Here's a cake I finished for my daughters friend. It was a hit at the party and matched all her decor!

Tri In The Pines

2009-08-24T09:21:00.000-07:00

My friend found this picture on her friends blog. There's Jeff and I in the pool warming up before the race begins.

I didn't get any pictures during the race, but here I come - headed for the finish line 2 minutes ahead of my hubby!! Yippee!!1

I was so glad to be done!

Big smiles!

Jeff and I had so much fun we are signed up for another one in October!!

Coming!

2009-08-17T14:46:00.000-07:00

At the end of the week I will have some pictures to show you.

I have some cakes and cookies to finish and sore muscles to stretch, but soon I will post pictures of my triathlon and goodies!

Until then... have a good week!!!

Surprise Birthday Cake

2009-08-11T09:25:00.000-07:00

I didn't get a good picture of this cake because I was late getting this to the surprise party. But the top of the cake is a present with tissue paper coming out. The bow is my favorite, but again, I didn't get a good picture of it. It was a really fun cake to make!

(See, it didn't take me to long to get back to the blog)

Lacking Inspiration

2009-08-10T16:38:00.000-07:00

Where have I been you ask?

I am still here. Just in a little blogging funk lately. I feel the computer calling to me, telling me to update, but alas, I just haven't been able to force myself to sit down and do it.

The kids started school today. I think routine will set in again and the blog posts will continue.

I have made some cute cakes and made some very tasty baked goods. I have had some fun vacations and lot's of pictures to sort through. But for now, bear with me -

Maybe tomorrow I will feel inspired to sit down and share.

Right now, all I can do is share with you how I am lacking the motivation to post.

Pathetic, but true non the less.

I will be back.

Just not today.

The 4th With Friends!

2009-07-07T14:33:00.000-07:00

We got home from Utah on the 4th late that afternoon. We hurried and unloaded the car and off we went to enjoy some fireworks with friends! (I was so tired I don't think I was much fun.)

Why is it that driving poops you out, when all you do is sit?

Here I come!

2009-06-24T11:39:00.000-07:00

I get to spend a week looking at this everyday! (Okay, maybe not the snow.) I am ready for a little R & R! Oh happy days ahead!!!!!!!

Dolphin Cake

2009-06-23T07:43:00.000-07:00

Here are some pictures of a fun dolphin cake I finished this weekend. I love the palm trees and the hula girls! Cute!

Thailand Cake

2009-06-22T13:27:00.000-07:00

Here's a cake I did for Mimi's farewell party as she heads off to Thailand. This cake took forever to hand paint and put the beadwork on. Shwew!

The Start of Something New

2009-06-09T10:59:00.000-07:00

I have had a lot of people ask where I have been lately in the blogging world. The answer is BUSY! A friend and I are in the process of opening a bakery. We should be up and running in August or early September in Gilbert AZ. We are specializing in cakes, cookies, cupcakes and anything else that is sweet. We are "The Sweet Studio".
This past weekend we set up shop at the Phoenix convention center to kick off the new business at the Wedding Expo. (Our booth was soooo cool!!!)
April (the boss lady), Heather and I have never worked so hard in our lives. We served thousands of cake samples - seriously we couldn't keep them coming fast enough. I think our cakes were a hit. We worked so hard to get ready for this show - baking and decorating like CRAZY!!!! Here are some more pictures of the cakes and cookies we displayed.