Walnut Baklava

This is one of my absolute favorite treats! And not too hard to make either.

INGREDIENTS:
4 cups finely chopped walnuts
1/4 cup sugar
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
1 cup butter, melted
1 (16 ounce) package frozen
phyllo dough, thawed

SYRUP:
1 cup sugar
1/2 cup water
1/4 cup honey
1 teaspoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

DIRECTIONS:
1. In a bowl, combine the walnuts, sugar and cinnamon; set aside. Grease a 13-in. x 9-in. x 2-in. baking dish with some of the melted butter. Unroll phyllo dough sheets (keep dough covered with plastic wrap while assembling).
2. Place one sheet of phyllo in baking dish; brush with butter. Top with a second sheet; brush with butter. Fold short ends under to fit the dish. Sprinkle with about 1/4 cup nut mixture. Repeat 18 times, layering two sheets, brushing with butter and sprinkling with nut mixture. Top with remaining dough; brush with butter. Cut into 2-in. diamonds with a sharp knife.
3. Bake at 350 degrees F for 45-55 minutes or until golden brown. Meanwhile, in a saucepan, combine the syrup ingredients; bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, uncovered, for 10 minutes. Pour over warm baklava. Cool on a wire rack.

Now I Understand. . .

Here are Three of my Favorite People I can't wait to see again. Grandma Lindgren, Dad and his second wife, Louise.


In this life we are literally trying to find our way HOME! Home to Heavenly Father. In my Patriarchal blessing I was told that I was given all the gifts I needed before I came to Earth to get back to Father in Heaven. Well, I've been using them - all. I've tried to use my time, talents and energy with which I have been blessed to do just that, to find my way home. Now that I'm nearing the downward spiral of Earthly years I realize just how it all worked. I also know now that I wasn't as successful sometimes as I should have been or wanted to be. Life has been difficult sometimes, but that isn't what really matters. What really matters is that I have remained faithful and have learned all I could regarding the Gospel and it's attendant ordinances. This will serve me well when I do leave here to go home. This reflection has given me much comfort. I know now that I couldn't be perfect while here, and that I will get the opportunity to become perfect in the next life. But I really believe I did my best; yes, I made lots of mistakes, but I have learned from them. I have a testimony of the reason for our existense in this life now, and for that I am so grateful.

The Daily Grind

Hey! The Daily Grind, that's what I ought to name a newsletter! Ha! Well, today that's what I feel like - that I'm in the daily grind. I spent some time trying to rally my old high school companions today. They are apparently so embarrassed at how they look they won't post any photos. Argghh. . . ! We are what we are. We received our new Disneyland Annual Passes in the mail today. I can't wait to go! We haven't been for quite awhile and I miss it. I've been talking to Mona about selling off all our stuff outa' the big house to get ready to downsize. She's going to come down when Dan is on his scouting trip to help me take inventory and make lists of stuff I wanna' sell on E-Bay, etc. I also have to research burial information for Lancaster. We need to buy our spots and pay a pre-need plan so the kids don't have to do anything but show up at our funerals. It's too hard for kids to go through all that when their parents die.

Life is Wonderful. . . and Short!

I'm so glad to be alive today! I feel so good since I began going to Dr. Molthen, my pain is gone and I can lie down, stand, bend and sit without pain now. If you find you need chiropractic help contact me first. I have been to chiropractors in the past and thought I'd done all I could do, and to no avail. On a previous visit I asked the doctor how long it would be before I felt really well and didn't have to visit him so often. He reminded me that I have been ill for DECADES! Somehow that just hit me between the eyes, I realized how long I've been sick and seriously I don't know how I survived and lived thus far. I have become acutely aware of my body and all it's functions, where before I was just plain numb. It is so amazing what our bodies can endure in this life. I believe if we were adjusted after we exit our mother's womb we would not have to suffer so much. I absolutely recommend this method of chiropractic to everyone. It is non-manipulative, there's no pain when you are adjusted and the feeling of well-being is enhanced by a real physical change. It's not crunching your spine or twisting your head un-neccesarily at all. I am 63 years of age and knew that somewhere in the world the Lord had the answer for me. That answer came through genealogy of all things. A cousin of mine, Betty Wontorek, contacted me and we met and compared notes, but more than that we became friends and began talking about arthritis because both of us suffer from it. She began to tell me about Dr. Molthern and convinced me very quickly that I needed to go to him. So I did. I was truly on the edge of never being able to walk again. After my first adjustment I have not used my cane once. I haven't used my scooter in the house or elsewhere. I can't wait until I'm well enough to go to Disneyland again without having to rent a scooter! I owe my life to Betty, literally! And I thank God for sending her to me at this most crucial time in my life.

In Memorium

My dear friend Chris passed away this week from ALS/Lou Gherig's Disease.

She has always been very dear to me and I will miss her terribly in this life.

"'Til We Meet Again" Chris.

Christine Effie Marriott, age 53, passed away Wednesday, May 21, 2008, in Centerville Utah.
She was born on July 1, 1954, in Provo, Utah, the daughter of Dean and Lanette Robison. Married Robert A. Marriott January 4, 1979 in the Salt Lake LDS Temple. She was an active member all her life holding many positions, but the ones she enjoyed most were those serving in Young Women's organization. Her greatest joy was that of Mother, Wife, and love for her fellow man.
Survived by her Husband Robert, son Justin, daughter Sagan, her mother Lanette, sister LaDean, and brother Gary, along with many nieces and nephews.
Services will be held Wednesday, May 28, 2008, at the LDS Church located at 1298 North 400 West, Centerville, Utah, at 11:00 am with a viewing from 9:45 am to 10:45 am., under the direction of Russon Brothers Bountiful Mortuary.
Grave dedication will be held at Orem Cemetery, 1520 North 800 East, Orem, Utah, at 2:30 pm.
Thank you does not express the gratitude to those at LA Freightliner, her friends, countless Church members, Care Givers, and especially family whose devotion, service, and love for Christine provided comfort and joy through her struggle with ALS.

Working on Genealogy

Well, here I am for a few minutes before I have to do something else. I am getting out my old, and I mean old - photos and creating albums with them. Hopefully I may have them finished in a few months. They are of my Kirkpatrick ancestors and I don't want to lose the pictures, but it's very hard work. But, onward and upward. I had to have another adjustment yesterday, today I had my massage. I feel better but my left back is bothering me again. I'm sure it's the weather. I have to win this battle! I want to go on the trek with Tony and the kids from the LA Stake. I'm adding a picture to this note to see what I'm working with, even some are tintypes. Very interesting.




James Francis "Frank" and Frances "Fannie" Ligon Kirkpatrick and Family - Early 1900's

URLs I Love

Facebook

Plaxo

MyFamily

Ancestry

Family Search

Favorite Chicken/Turkey Salad

Ingredients

1/2 cup mayonnaise (use Best Foods -absolutely not Miracle Whip!)
1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
2 tablespoons curry powder
2 cups cooked chicken or turkey -- chopped
1/4 cup diced celery
1/2 cup Thompson seedless grapes -- halved
1/4 cup almond slivers (cashews are also delicious)

Instructions:

Blend mayonnaise, lemon juice, and curry powder. Mix into remaining ingredients.

Chill at least one hour before serving.
Serving Ideas : Serve on whole leaves of Romaine lettuce.
Serving Size : 4
Preparation Time :0:20

I served this at Elisa's wedding supper at her request.

Obregon Family Members

Tony's grandfather, Hilario Obregon with his sister, Luz Obregon Hernandez and her son, Ernesto Hernandez.

Wayne and Charla Sant

Our dear friends, Wayne and Charla Sant enjoying their granddaughter at their home in Richland, WA.

Busy Day

It's late now and I want to get a small blog up for the day - you see, I'm trying to remain faithful to it. Today was really busy and I didn't sleep well last night because of the excessive heat. I played the organ for Sacrament then taught Gospel Doctrine and played the piano for Relief Society. I haven't taught Gospel Doctrine for years, so this was different. However, it was with one exception the best calling I've ever had in the church - being Relief Society President was the BEST! I still miss it and it's been years since I was released. I'm looking forward to a rather busy week again, doctor appointment, make a lot of calls, especially to a woman who's investigating the church. Pay some urgent bills and try to survive until payday - again. Well, I'm tired so I am going to close. Hopefully I can add more to this the rest of the week.

Miguel's Car Accident

Miguel called me on Tuesday morning of this week to say he'd been rear-ended by a driver while on the 101 Fwy. He had a lot of rear-end damage and was having trouble with his head/neck already. He stayed home the rest of the day instead of going to work. Next day he got a rental car and put his car in the shop. Friday he called to say his head/neck and legs are really bothering him, I advised him to see the doc - he said he had no time because of what he was doing at work - a huge deadline. His car sustained more than $4300.00 damage, so you know he took a pretty hard hit. The trunk lid had to be replaced, the bumper and lots of other necessary stuff. He has an Altima, so you know it would be expensive to repair it. However, I am most worried about his health. I know how serious back/neck/leg injuries are, maybe right now he can endure it, but later on he will have far worse symptoms. Car accidents are not to be taken lightly, even if there is no blood/flesh damage.

A Really Quiet House

Linda and the kids are gone to Disneyland for the weekend so today it is very quiet here. I've been updating pictures and such on my web site, not really working today. This weekend is going to be very busy, on Sunday morning I'm playing the organ for Sacrament Service, after that - teaching Gospel Doctrine (the Adult Scripture Class), then I go to Relief Society to play the music and coordinate Visiting Teaching. I'm way behind in getting prepped for all this, so I feel lazy and guilty. Guess I'd better get with it, huh? Perhaps this is why I needed a quiet house this weekend. Also, today (Friday) I was to have met with the Missionaries for the Adams Ward at an investigator's home for lesson #2, but the lady, Margarite called the Missionaries to tell them she was still at the doctor's office and would have to re-schedule with us. The Missionaries then asked if I would look for Margarite on Sunday and see that she is fellowshipped. WOW! Hope I can do all that! Ha! By the way - it's 95 degrees F. here today.

Behold Your Little Ones

I love this painting and always imagine myself as one of these children.

Vacation What?

I've been so busy all week because Tony's been home on vacation. Usually I just do what I wanna' do, but we like to go places together. We had dinner at In n' Out this afternoon, then we came home and watched "Lord of the Rings, Return of the King", and then watched the Dodger game, and then watched the Lakers. Lots of tube viewing today. But that's okay, we practically never watch T.V, especially together. Today was Tony's last day of vacation, so he's back to work tomorrow. I have so many things to get done that take quite a bit of time - looking forward to the peace and quiet. Also, Linda and the kids are going to Disneyland for the weekend, so it will be especially quiet here this weekend. Yay!

However, Tony was able to paint all the woodwork in the breakfast room and re-painted the blue-bedroom as well as the woodwork in there too. He was sick with a really bad cold the first four days he was home, so he was disappointed he wasn't able to complete all his projects during this time. The purpose of his vacation was to do all the work he hasn't been able to complete. He also planted our veggie garden and cleaned out and trimmed the entire herb garden. He did lots of work!

Birthday Party

Today Tony and I drove up to Lancaster and spent the afternoon with Ramona and her family. It was her birthday today, so we took all the fixin's to make enchiladas, and tacos. We all had a great time cooking and visiting with the grandchildren, and helping them with their homework. It was great.

When we left Ramona's to come home I said to Tony, "We brought so much up with us and hardly anything came back with us." He answered me, "Oh yes we brought plenty back with us - good memories."

He's right. I love being with my kids and grandkids, there's just nothing like it in the whole wide world.

I'm feeling so much better, I can't wait to go to my third appointment with Dr. Molthen tomorrow. I'm anxious to tell him of my improvement!

We were going to stop at Disneyland on the way home, but the Elders (missionaries) called just as we got home. They asked if I can meet them at an investigator's home tomorrow at 2 PM, so nix on Disneyland. Darn. Oh well, I love sitting through the missionary lessons with investigators, it's really spiritual and fulfilling. But I did want to go to Disneyland too. Oh well, next time.

Maybe I'm Getting the Hang of This - Ha!

Today was very busy. I played the organ for the funeral of Aretha Johnson, who was a beautiful woman from our ward. She suffered a stroke in the past few months and never awakened from it. I also accompanied Doris Russell Lett as she sang, "His Eye Is On the Sparrow." She sang it beautifully. I didn't go to the internment, which was as Inglewood Cemetery, instead I stayed in the kitchen and visited with all the sisters from Relief Society who were preparing the repast. I left shortly before the family returned because I suddenly felt so tired. I came home and ate lunch, visited with Tony for awhile then went upstairs and took not one, but two naps. I am going back to the chiropracter tomorrow morning and I expect I will be tired when I get home, hence more naps. I felt really good today. So much improved from my previous condition, and I am anxious to get another adjustment to feel even better.

Easy Crochet Patterns

Health Issues

I went to my new chiropractor yesterday and so far, so good. No pain at all. I've had some stiffness because of the change in the weather, but it's right in the middle of my back, not where I've had the pain before. I am frankly very encouraged. I go back on Friday to see if my neck is holding the adjustment and to get another adjustment. This treatment is so radical to me since their is no manipulation of my spine at all. It's so hard to believe it works, but it does.

I'm so tired of always having to worry about money! Always the bills coming in and the money going out. I want to gain complete control over our money and never listen to the Gods of Greed again!

It's so difficult to live with so much stress over money all the time. We're about ready to retire and I can hardly wait! Keeping up this big house has become such a burden. I used to look at it as a wonderful investment, now it's just weighing us down. We need to sell and move into a little apartment until we decide where to retire, and leave this "woman killer" for good and all. Even when we sell our home we are not leaving Los Angeles until Tony completes his calling and the Lord says he wants someone else to fill his shoes. He loves his calling so much that he cannot bear the thought of being released just to move. We will just find a small place to live until we are finished here and then move on, probably to Lancaster, CA where Mona and the kids are. It's so expensive to live in L.A. now.

I Have Great Ideas

Today is "rest" day for me, since Sunday is always a whirlwind and merry-go-round day.

I'm checking out what crafts I need to complete so I can pick-up others on the side that are just waiting for me to get started. Oh yes, I have great ideas - but will I ever finish? Hmmm. . .

I am excited for tomorrow. I'm going to a new doctor who is reputed to be one of the best chiropracters in the U.S., and who specializes in my health issues.

I am picking up my cousin on the way to the doctor and afterward we are going to lunch before I go back home. So it should be a really good day for me.

Tony is at home today with a very bad cold. I hope he gets well right away because he will be on a working vacation for the next week beginning on Wednesday. There are some important things that need to be taken care of around the house that require more than a weekend. I hate to see him be sick his whole time off from work.

Apron Cookbook Craft - My Design

Open each of the attached files (one at a time!).

Copy and paste them into your word processor (I use Lotus WordPro or Microsoft Works) any good word processor will work.

In your word processor, open a new page and cut and paste each picture onto separate page(s) , making sure the front and back covers are exactly the same size, (the recipe card fits inside the large squares of the front/back covers.)

You will need to cut/past and print-out several copies of the recipe card picture(obviously - to use for your recipes.)

Hand write or "cut/paste" your own recipes onto the recipe card(s), or paste your own recipe cards onto the "recipe card" template provided here.

Print on card stock quality paper (this makes it sturdy). I also laminate my pages and covers, however, if you don't have access to a laminator just be certain you use good quality paper and try not to spill anything on the pages/covers.

Finally, bind the pages and front/back covers together. I use the "Rollabind" system, but if you don't have that - a good hole punching apparatus will work, just make certain the holes are evenly punched-out.

Your completed project should look like the picture located in the "Review" files on the front page, which was entitled "Apron Cookbook".

Olive Garden Capellini Primavera Recipe

Now here's some good Italian food - try it, it's great! You all know how I love to cook, okay and eat.


Ingredients:
1/4 pound Butter
1 1/2 cup Onion -- chop
3/4 cup Carrots -- julienne
12 ounces Broccoli florets (1" pieces)
8 ounces Mushrooms -- sliced
1 1/4 cup Yellow squash (sliced thin/halved)
1 teaspoon Garlic -- minced
1 1/2 cup Water
1 tablespoon Beef bouillon granules
1/4 cup Oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, minced
1 1/4 cup Crushed tomatoes in puree
1 tablespoon Fresh parsley -- chop fine
1/4 teaspoon Oregano
1/4 teaspoon Rosemary -- ground
1/8 teaspoon Crushed red pepper flakes
1 pound Fresh angel hair pasta -- cooked and drained
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese


Directions:
Melt butter in a Dutch oven over medium heat. Saute onions, carrots and broccoli for 5 minutes. Add mushrooms, squash and garlic and saute for 2 minutes longer. Add remaining ingredients, stir well and bring to a simmer.

*Note
You can buy real capellini at Smart & Final.


Number Of Servings:4

I've Been Thinking . . .

Well, here I am again. See, I don't like keeping a journal. In fact I quit doing it several years ago when my life went South and I didn't want my children/grand children to ever read what I was thinking at the time. Then I got out of the habit and quit doing it altogether. Now I have to get used to it again. And this is so public. Oh, I'll manage okay.

I've been cruising Facebook checking out the pictures of the Wilshire Ward on the site, "Wilshire Ward". It's interesting to see all the people I've known for so many years. I miss so many of them too.

Had a pretty good day at church. I taught the High Priests how to register with the new.familysearch.org. It went very well and the brethren seemed to have a great time working with the computers. A couple of them had never used a computer either, so it was really new to them.

I also screwed-up the sister who was going to present me as the spot-lighted sister for the Relief Society today. I forgot I was teaching the High Priests Group and couldn't attend Relief Society. Thankfully she wants to do it next Sunday on Mother's Day. Which is fine with me. I used to get embarrassed about things like this, but now I take it all in stride. I am happy to be honored and to share my life with the other sisters.

Blog For Life

Being in the Vargas Family has some rather stiff requirements. You must be bull-headed, socially inept, messy, a day-dreamer, musical - to some degree or another, a voracious reader, love movies - especially 'oldies', generous, loving, charitable, and crazy about children! Of course, not necessarily in that order. All our family members have met and in many cases, exceeded these requirements!

We love the Lord and our Father-in-Heaven, the Temple and The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The women of this clan adore Relief Society, and the men love their women. The children are all artistic, musical, sweet, friendly, generous, and adorable. We have the best of everything in our family, along with lots of trials and tribulations and spiritual ups and downs. But we move forward at a steady pace looking toward that chosen goal - that of being an Eternal Family, with no one missing. May God always bless us in our quest.