You're Invited to a Women's Retreat June 3-5 2009

As a life coach I have learned so many wonderful ways to help women and I'm so excited to put them to use at another retreat. My dream is to help women find their passion, live their purpose and find more joy and love in their relationships (which means putting themselves first sometimes).

I believe when women are able to get away for a day or two, they come back refreshed and their children and husbands appreciate them even more. It is a win win situation for everyone. The retreat is a way to get away, learn, deepen friendships, dream bigger, and have fun too.

I hear from women all the time about the guilt they feel when they take care of themselves. They think they are being selfish if they spend any time or money on themselves. They can't bear the guilt. You don't have to feel guilty. You deserve to put yourself first sometimes and get replenished and renewed. It isn't selfish it is healthy. Do you know what happens when you give EVERYTHING to EVERYONE and never yourself? Pretty soon your bucket is empty and you don't have anything left to give. Can't we see that when we are happy, balanced and fulfilled we have more to give, and we are setting better examples for our daughters? I see women all the time signing their children up for camps, classes and buying clothes for their kids, never thinking that those things are important for themselves too. I could go on and on about this subject because I am passionate about women taking care of themselves. If it is your time to have fun and renewal please consider coming to our getaway.

The retreat is June 3-5, 2009 at Marriott Canyon Villas at Desert Ridge in Scottsdale. Here are some pictures of the resort.
http://www.marriott.com/hotels/hotel-photos/phxcv-marriotts-canyon-villas/ It is a very beautiful, upscale resort.

There will be lots of classes, great food, activities, crafts and socializing. After the last retreat was over several of the participants asked if they could come back to another one. (Their testimonials are toward the end of this post)

Let me introduce you to the retreat instructors.
This is an amazing team of professional women who are knowledgeable and passionate about what they teach.

Shari Lyon. She is a wellness coach and licensed massage therapist. She is passionate about her slogan of “live well, eat well, be well.” The only thing that makes her happier than living a natural health lifestyle is helping others make great changes in their lives so that they too can experience “wellness”!
She has completed many, many hours of natural health education, has earned a BS in holistic nutrition and is currently working on her MS in holistic nutrition. She has trained in EFT, Chinese cupping, reflexology, and aromatherapy. She has also completed the requirements as a certified natural health consultant.
http://sharilyon.com/


Michele Baer is the mother of six, a singer, songwriter and inspirational speaker. She has released 3 CD's, "Never Give Up-Songs of Faith and Family", "Out of the Dust" and her newest (came out April 2009) is "You're Worth it All." She has a big heart and it comes through when you hear her messages of Hope for women. Michele is very involved in the community, serving as the State Director of Family Leader Network as well as producing numerous charity events. She received the American Mothers National vocal award in recognition of her ability to balance family, music and community service. Hear selections from http://michelebaermusic.com/


Dodie Blomberg, M.Ed, is a professional development coach with a passion for moving people towards a more positive outlook. Dodie is a Certified Positive Discipline Associate who supports and encourages teachers and parents to focus on children’s strengths and assets, thus promoting cooperation and solutions. She is dedicated to promoting respectful relationships in homes, schools, and communities. Dodie gets the opportunity to practice her positive relationship skills as a Junior Scout Leader, an AFAA certified fitness instructor, a children’s dodgeball coach, and especially as a wife and mother of two great children.
http://positivelydodie.blogspot.com/


Allison Johnson just got back from a two week training at the Conselle Institute of Image Management. She is about to burst waiting to teach you all the things she learned. (I can't wait!)
She has a sophisticated and classic style and helps others find their style, best looks and proportions. She is amazed at the transformation that happens to women on the inside by helping them with a few changes on the outside.
Allison has always loved clothes and what they can do for a person's self esteem. She believes we truly do reflect what's inside by how we present ourselves on the outside. We do that by what we wear. Every body can look fantastic. Every body-- not just the perfect size 4, Victoria's Secret body. Allison's passion is to help every woman find that beautiful diva inside and teach her how to look her absolute best by how she adorns her body.
Allison is a graduate of Brigham Young University, a flight attendant for 22 years, and is a professional Image Consultant.
http://allichic.blogspot.com/

Jodi Hatfield is the owner of Blossom Salon and Boutique on Main St. in Mesa. She is a creative genius and she is our designated fun maker. Jodi has a great eye for flattering hair styles and colors and has great taste in clothes and interior design. She keeps busy by remaking vintage furniture, designing children's bedrooms and having fun with her husband and daughters.
http://blossomsalonandboutique.blogspot.com/
http://hatfieldfamilyblog.blogspot.com/



Carla is the President of Time to Blossom Coaching and Retreats. She received her coach training from Adler School of Professional Coaching and has been coaching for 2 years. She is a life long learner, especially in the area of personal development. She and her husband of 27 years have 5 children and have owned many businesses together. She brings all of these experiences and knowledge to her coaching.
She has a passion for helping women live fulfilling meaningful lives.
http://timetoblossom.com/

The cost of the 3 night Scottsdale retreat is $335.00. This includes all classes, food, activities, crafts and accommodations.

The retreat is 6/3-6/5, Wed-Friday. The retreat activities are over Friday night but you are welcome to spend the night and checkout at 9:00 am Sat. morning.

Here is what you missed at the last retreat.

Jodi had little signs on the doors of the main rooms so it was easier to know where to go. One room was called the fun room. It was for line dancing, picnic, future self exercise and our dancing queen training. There was also the girl talk room. That was for our workshops and cooking class. And our fabulous yum yum room where we had wonderful meals, a candlelight dinner, crafts and a little dancing on the table.

Fun girls

Two of the teachers, Dodie and Michele, looking gorgeous! That night Michele gave us an inspirational talk of word and song. She writes music of hope for women. I love to hear her tell how and why she wrote the songs. Then of course the best part is hearing her sing them.
We were lucky enough to hear 4 of the songs that are going on her new album that will be out in a few months. I love these songs so much, I will let everyone know when they are finally available.
Dodie did some life coaching and taught a few classes including Top Card.

Shari teaching her wellness class.

Our candlelight dinner eating Shari's gourmet healthy food.

Jodie teaching us line dancing. Yes, we eventually got dancing pretty well. We had to watch her for awhile first.

I didn't get a picture of Allison teaching her fashion class but she was fabulous! She gave us all some great information and motivation. I have heard reports of people buying shoes, altering clothes and buying new foundation garments. Whoo hoo!

It was fun seeing everyone's goals in pictures as the women made dream boards. I got reports from the ladies that they have hung up their strengths craft and dream boards in their closets and bathrooms so they can see them everyday.

This was the Top Card activity that Dodie facilitated. Many women said this was their favorite part.

We made a craft using the strengths the women discovered about themselves. They all turned out unique and pretty.

The food was awesome. Here is the panini bar we had the last night. We also served roasted red pepper soup, tortilla soup and a yummy salad.

The wonderful women who came to my first retreat.





Here is what the participants said:

Retreat Testimonials

I had a wonderful two days and loved every minute of it. It was amazing!!! I loved the lessons you taught and the lessons that I learned about life and myself. You are an amazing person and I appreciate you sharing so much of yourself with us. I really had a wonderful time and would totally love to do it again. Thank you!! I truly enjoyed all of the women that spoke, sang and danced. It was a once in a lifetime activity. Thanks so much, ~Patrice

I loved the retreat on so many levels. I know this sounds trite, but it really did change my life. Thank you so so so so so much!!!! ~Lisa

In addition to staying in beautiful facilities, meeting some amazing people, and eating delicious food, my favorite part of the retreat had to be the focus I came home with. With the skills I learned and the discoveries I made, it has been easier for me to realize and give attention to those things that are most important in my life. -Colette

I left the retreat feeling fed both physically and emotionally. I learned so many new things, but didn't feel soo overwhelmed that I wouldn't be able to get any of them done. I hope to add a nice protein shake to my breakfast. I think about the start of my 100 goals all the time, and think about what I might be able to accomplish. I bought a new pair of shoes to help update my wardrobe. I have my strengths picture in my closet, where I see it every day, and my poster is hanging there as well. It was so fun to share, laugh, and learn in a beautiful place with women that I felt completely safe with. ~Denise

I learned to cook healthier, dress smarter, act wiser, enjoy music, be more goal oriented and finding my ultimate passions. The pursuit of happiness is up for the taking. My horizon has been broadened. Thanks for the experience. ~Meri

Our retreat with Carla Jorgensen was a weekend of friendship, learning, opening our minds to endless possibilities, goal setting, being inspired and lots of fun. I went home knowing I have a purpose and could 'BECOME'.........~Valerie

If this sounds like something you would enjoy, let me know.
carlajorgensen@gmail.com

Oatmeal Cake

My kids and grandkids came over for a little evening birthday party. Mindy made me oatmeal cake. One of my favorites.

Oatmeal Cake
1 ½ c. water, boiling
1 ¼ c. oats (not quick oats)
½ c. butter
1 c. sugar
1 c. brown sugar
2 eggs
2 tsp. vinegar
1 ½ c. flour
1 tsp. cinnamon
1 tsp. soda
½ tsp. salt

Topping:
½ c. evaporated milk
1 c. brown sugar
½ c. butter
1 ½ c. coconut
1 tsp. vanilla
½ c. nuts (optional)

Pour boiling water over oats and ½ cup butter; let stand 20 min. In large bowl mix sugar, brown sugar, eggs and vinegar; mix well. Mix together flour, cinnamon, baking soda, and salt; add to wet ingredients. Mix well and pour into cake pan. Bake at 350 for 40 min. in a 9 X 13 pan. Mix topping mixture in a sauce pan and bring to a boil. Pour over warm cake.

Jack, me and my birthday roses look quite coordinated.


Here is the amaryllis Jade and Josh bought me. I can't wait to see it bloom. She got it from http://whiteflowerfarm.com/84838-product.html

Fun ideas

I snatched these pictures off of my cute friend Wendy's blog. This is her at a halloween party she threw for her grandkids.

This is how she welcomes her new grand babies at the hospital. What a fun thing to have on your hospital room door.

This was a grooms cake with chocolate covered strawberries. YUM!!
Thanks Wendy for the inspiration!

Cheryl Richardson ~ Life Coach

Cheryl Richardson's is a famous life coach. She has written many books. Finding Your Passion is the first one I read which started me on the journey of becoming a life coach.

This was on Good Morning America and Cheryl is talking about how important it is to say no and put yourself first. You can't give to everyone else if you don't replenish yourself.


http://abcnews.go.com/GMA/story?id=6891972&page=1

TimetoBlossom.com ~ My New Website

I am getting some things loaded on my new website. timetoblossom I haven't figured out how to put pictures on very well yet. It seems like there is a learning curve on everything I try. I guess that means I am growing. It just seems like at some point things would get a little easier.

I just reserved 3, 3 room villas in Scottsdale for another retreat. I haven't announced it yet but the details are on the website. timetoblossom.com/pages/scheduledretreats.htm
There are only 15 spots and 6 are already filled. I will be sending out an email announcing it soon. Let me know if you want to come to this one or be on the email list for future retreats. Email me!

I have been busy this month getting new business cards and brochures made.



Disregard the blog on the card for now. I can't seem to get it to work right. Eventually I am going to move everything over to this site to make it easier.

Here is my coaching and retreat pamphlets.


I have been taking pictures of things for the blog but have been busy with other things this month. I WILL start posting again.

Connie Sokol - Life Coach

We can become good at things or knowledgeable about topics, if we put the time into learning them. I remember Hyrum Smith, inventor of Franklin daytimers saying...if you want to be successful, do what successful people do. It is that simple. The people that are experts on a topic have spent years learning that topic. I am convinced that you can learn and become quite good at things, if you study and practice them for 3 months straight.
I had never been on a blog until Feb. 2008. 3 months later I had 2 years worth of entries and taught a class on it. We don't know what we are capable of doing until we try.
What if I chose gardening. What if I visited nursuries, checked out library books on gardening, started working my soil and visited expert gardeners. How good do you think I could become if I did this 3 hours each day for 3 months? I would practically be an expert.

The 3 months are going to pass by anyway.
What is something that interests you, that you could start learning about?

Carla

This is a newletter I received from Connie Sokol, a successful life coach that lives in Utah. I believe what she says.

Hi Ladies,

I happened to catch Malcom Gladwell, columnist for The New Yorker, on a KUED interview as he shared the concept of "deliberate practice". In his research of successful people, he discovered that most of them--no matter their profession, hobby, or pursuit--had in common one main thing. They had each "practiced" about 10,000 hours, which equals to about 10 years.

In relation to society "greats" such as Michael Jordan or the Beatles, what made them successful is that they got an early start. But early or late, if you put in your 10,000 hours of deliberate practice, meaning focused efforts and fine-tuning weaknesses, you will be a success in what you choose. Does this mean after almost 16 years of mothering I should be a stellar mother?!

Consider what you love to do currently and WOULD love to do in the future. Start now, a bit here, a bit there, gathering your 10,000 hours of deliberate focus. And who knows what you can do to change the world!
All my best,
Connie

Outside dinner- Birthday Party

Jade, my party planning daughter, came up with a really fun idea. She got 6 couples together and made a dinner group. It is run kind of like bunko. Two times a year you host a dinner party at your house. You bring the hostess $20.00 to help out with the food and decorations. Instead of going out to dinner you get to know these other couples, be in their home and get to go to a party a month. Sounds like a great thing for these newlyweds to do. My two daughters are in the same dinner group. Jade put it together and she was the first one to start. She went all out of course with decorations, yummy homemade food, favors and games.
The next night it was my 14 year olds birthday so Jade decided she could duplicate the party she did with her friends the night before. It was quite a treat for all of us to go in her backyard where her husband had made a table for 12 out of plywood. It was covered with a beautiful tablecloth and fancy china. She put on a 4 course meal.

Spinach, candied walnuts, dried cranberries, feta cheese, pears and homemade poppyseed dressing. So good!

Butternut Squash soup that we all love. The recipe is a few posts back. She also had good bread with homemade herbed butter in the left corner.

Lemon herbed chicken, sweet potato casserole (recipe from Thanksgiving post), scalloped potatoes, and mashed potatoes. Our family loves potatoes.

Texas Sheet cake by request from the birthday girl.

Jade is a dish collector. She has several sets of china, fancy dishes and antiques. She bought herself these 12 days of Christmas dessert dishes a month ago.

I thought this idea was pure genius. They put revolving heaters under the table. We wore jackets to dinner and we stayed toasty warm.
Here is what else I wanted to pass along. This originated from my famous quilter sister Amy. She does back to back Christmas parties. She makes double the food, decorates once, and the house is basically cleaned from the night before party. She will do one friend party, a neighbor party or church party. It is a really brilliant idea.
Just like Jade's party, it was a lot of work for her friend party and just a little more work for us to come over and be treated like royalty. Thanks Jade!!! We would love this to become a family tradition:)

Paying attention to our Strengths

Sorry I haven't been posting very faithfully. I have lots of things in the pipelines but no time to put them all together (picture, correct English etc.) I have been so giddy about my retreat that it is all I can think about and spend time doing.

Here is one of the assignments I am having the ladies do before they arrive. I posted it last April. Here is the link if you haven't done it yet.

http://mytimetoblossom.blogspot.com/2008/04/www.html

This is one thing I got from taking the test. My #1 strength is creativity, ingenuity and originality. I use ingenuity constantly. I am always looking for the fastest and best way to do things. It has always been kind of a game for me to see if I can improve how things are done. I really never knew that I was unique in this area. After it was brought to my attention, I realize that this is a gift of mine.
What is funny is that this strength of mine is also one of the things that drives my husband crazy about me. When he is doing a project and I walk in I instantly see a better way. He says that he doesn't care and doesn't always want to hear that he is doing it "wrong" or not efficiently.
I think the main point of taking a test like this is for personal awareness. See what your strengths are and how you use them. Maybe you use yours too much like in my case with my husband and can tone it down a little.
You may want to look at the last one on the list, which is an area you can improve.

When you know yourself better, you can choose the best ways to use your strengths.

The Best Yams I Have Ever Had!

Makes a 2 quart casserole, serves 6 to 8 people. Line a cookie sheet with aluminum foil. Bake 6 to 8 yams, enough to make 3 cups after being mashed.

Mix and beat until smooth:
2/3 c. sugar
1/3 c. butter
2 eggs, beaten
1 tsp. vanilla
1/3 c. milk
Add yams into the mixture.

Topping:
½ c. brown sugar
¼ c. flour
4 tsp. butter
2/3 c. crushed pecans
Spread over top. Marshmallows optional.

Bake at 350 for 25 minutes.
My husbands family weren't big on yams when I first got married. To make Thanksgiving meal complete I brought them every year to their dinner. I inevitably would bring home half a dish because only my family ate them.
One year a friend gave me this recipe. I brought it to the inlaws and they have been eating them and asking for them ever since. Yummy! I'm making them this week:)

Twilight- The Movie

Heather Stone siteinstone.blogspot.comis friends with the author of the book Twilight. Heather rented a 300 seat theater for the movie that came out today.
Jodi Hatfield and I made some cute York peppermint pattie handouts for the ladies in line and told them about Jodie's store and fashion show, and about my coaching and retreats. It was so fun being able to speak with so many fabulous ladies in one night.

I gave away a retreat in Heathers raffle and Mindi was the lucky winner.

If you aren't able to go to the retreat Dec. 18 and 19th, email me so I can let you know when the next one is scheduled. carlajorgensen@gmail.com

Here are my hopes for the retreat:
Women will go home feeling happier
Loving and appreciating themselves more.
Have some "me" time to fill up their buckets.
Do fun things they haven't done for awhile.
Learn things, grow, journal, set goals, great tips
Life changing craft projects
Be entertained
Connect with others

I Want You to Meet my Retreat Team

Shari Lyon. She is a wellness coach and licensed massage therapist. She is passionate about her slogan of “live well, eat well, be well.” The only thing that makes her happier than living a natural health lifestyle is helping others make great changes in their lives so that they too can experience “wellness”!
She has completed many, many hours of natural health education, has earned a BS in holistic nutrition and is currently working on her MS in holistic nutrition. She has trained in EFT, Chinese cupping, reflexology, and aromatherapy. She has also completed the requirements as a certified natural health consultant.
http://sharilyon.com/


Michele Baer is the mother of six, a singer, songwriter and inspirational speaker. She has released 2 CD's, "Never Give Up-Songs of Faith and Family", and "Out of the Dust." She is currently working on her third. She has a big heart and it comes through when you hear her messages of Hope for women. Michele is very involved in the community, serving as the State Director of Family Leader Network as well as producing numerous charity events. She received the American Mothers National vocal award in recognition of her ability to balance family, music and community service. Hear selections from http://michelebaermusic.com/


Dodie Blomberg, M.Ed, is a professional development coach with a passion for moving people towards a more positive outlook. Dodie is a Certified Positive Discipline Associate who supports and encourages teachers and parents to focus on children’s strengths and assets, thus promoting cooperation and solutions. She is dedicated to promoting respectful relationships in homes, schools, and communities. Dodie gets the opportunity to practice her positive relationship skills as a Junior Scout Leader, an AFAA certified fitness instructor, a children’s dodgeball coach, and especially as a wife and mother of two great children
http://positivelydodie.blogspot.com/

I admire Allison Johnson's sophisticated and classic style. She helps others find their style, best looks and proportions. She is amazed at the transformation that happens to women on the inside by helping them with a few changes on the outside.
Allison has always loved clothes and what they can do for a person's self esteem. She believes we truly do reflect what's inside by how we present ourselves on the outside. We do that by what we wear. Every body can look fantastic. Every body-- not just the perfect size 4, Victoria's Secret body. Allison's passion is to help every woman find that beautiful diva inside and teach her how to look her absolute best by how she adorns her body.
Allison is a graduate of Brigham Young University, a flight attendant for 22 years, and is a professional Image Consultant.
http://allichic.blogspot.com/

Jodi Hatfield is the owner of Blossom Salon and Boutique on Main St. in Mesa. She is a creative genius and she is our designated fun maker. Jodi has a great eye for flattering hair styles and colors and has great taste in clothes and interior design. She completes our retreat team.
http://blossomsalonandboutique.blogspot.com/
http://hatfieldfamilyblog.blogspot.com/

Women's Retreat

As most of you know I have been training to become a life coach for the past 2 years. I have learned and grown a lot since then. My passion is to help women find their passion and live their purpose. The best way I thought of to do this, is to put on retreats for women. I want women to be able to come to a retreat for a weekend and get their buckets filled. I want women to leave with new ideas, deeper friendships, more love for themselves, bigger dreams, be rejuvenated, and have the time of their lives.
To insure success I have put together a team of amazing women that are passionate about what they do and teach.
Michelle Baer
-Singer, Song Writer, and Inspirational Speaker
Dodie Blomberg
-Professional development coach, Positive Discipline Parent Trainer and Fitness Trainer
Jodi Hatfield
-Blossom Boutique and Salon Owner, Designated fun maker and creative genius
Allison Johnson
-Image Consultant, Personal Shopper and speaker.
Carla Jorgensen
-Success coach, President of Time to Blossom Coaching and Retreats, passionate about helping women discover their greatness.
Shari Lyon
-Wellness Coach, Nutritionist, Trained in reflexology therapeutic massage, essential oils and much more. Her slogan is "live well, eat well, be well."

I was planning on doing my first retreat Jan 2009. But I was able to get some fabulous rooms at Marriott's Canyon Villas at Desert Ridge in Scottsdale for a great deal so I thought I would just go for it. I know it is a crazy time of year! The retreat dates are Dec. 18 10:00am to Dec. 20 9:00am.
http://www.marriott.com/hotels/hotel-photos.mi?marshaCode=phxcv&pageID=HWHOM
This is a 3 night package. The retreat is 12/18-12/20 (scheduled activities), the third day 12/21 is included for those who choose to stay an extra day to relax at the resort or shop nearby. The 2 day retreat includes classes, food, fun, a life changing gift, and a more enriched life. The 3rd day is complimentary but includes no food or activities. If you want more info email me carlajorgensen@gmail.com.
You take care of everyone else all year long. Let us take care of you! If you can't justify treating yourself to such a fantastic event, give me your husbands email and I will tell him how much you deserve it. I'm sure he would appreciate a Christmas gift idea that you would love.

Motherhood is Hard Work

My daughter, her husband and two year old have been staying at our home while they are looking for a house to buy. This is the same daughter that had the baby on Halloween. It is hard being a mother. It is a wonder that so many of us do it again and again.
Baby Jack is adorable and fun to cuddle but he is a full time job. We all go through several outfits a day with the throw up and diaper leakage.

This is me with my 4th and 5th child. They are 13 months a part. I look at this picture and feel a little sorry for myself. The truth is I just did what I needed to do and I didn't think that much about it. Now that I have free time, and my children are independent, I look at my former self in amazement. Where did my energy come from? How did I do all the motherly duties? How did I keep up? I'm not sure. I think the energy must come with each additional child.

It has been 12 years since this picture was taken. I had to sacrifice a lot for my big family but it was all worth it. I have the rest of my life to pursue my goals and dreams and I am finally finding the time to attempt some of them.

We women can do everything, just not everything at the same time! Do the best you can in the season that you are in, so when you look back you will have no regrets.

Butternut Squash Cream Cheese Soup

Butternut Squash Soup

6 tablespoons chopped onion
1 clove garlic, minced
4 tablespoons butter
6 cups butternut squash, cooked
3 cups water
4 cubes chicken bouillon
1/2 teaspoon dried marjoram
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/8 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese

In a large saucepan, saute garlic, onions and seasonings
in butter until onions are tender.
In a blender, puree cooked squash, water, bouillon and
cream cheese in batches until smooth.
Add squash mixture to seasonings in saucepan, mix well
and heat through. Do not allow to boil.

*If you (or your family) do not like onions, you can blend the onions/seasonings in with the squash and they won't even know they are in there!

I didn't grow up eating butternut squash. The first time I realized I liked, was when I ordered butternut Squash ravioli with cream sauce at a resturant. It was years ago and I still remember how much I liked that meal.
My daughter Jade is the one that found this recipe. I am a soup lover anyway but this one over the top. You have to try it to believe it. She even worked out the calories on a cup of it and it is only 180 calories. I still find this hard to believe because the cream cheese makes it so thick and creamy. She also mentioned how few of us eat yellow veggies.
She brought this over the other day in a crock pot to a family gathering and I fed it to my grand-baby. It makes a great baby food too.
This recipe is great for this time of year!


I just made this soup and tried a new technique. I cut the squash in half, cleaned out the seeds, put back together and wrapped in foil. I cooked them at 350 for an hour and 15 min.

After they cooled I peeled them. It was similar to peeling a peach, very soft.

Painted Furniture

Here is my daughter painting her furniture.

For about $5.00 worth of semi gloss paint, we took a pretty ratty looking dresser and made it quite pretty.

Keeping America Free

I was taught by my mother what a blessing it is to be an American. I grew up with a reverence for this land and a love for our country.
I grew up in a home where I was taught constitutional principles. It was in an era where we didn’t know if the communists would take over America or if we would win the cold war. My father was constantly reading political books and discussing the topic with any who would listen.
My father is now 78 and was in the hospital for open heart surgery a few months ago. He told me that he enjoyed asking the different nurses their take on issues (he enjoys debating).
He was talking to one nurse. She was really curious about all the things he was saying. She asked him how she could learn more. He said the first and best step would be to read the constitution. She said, ”Who wrote that book? Who’s the author?”
This was hard to hear. He knows that America will not stay free if it’s people don’t even know about the document that created our Republic.
Have you ever watched Jay Leno when he does man on the street interviews? He will ask someone questions like, who is the Vice President or why do we celebrate the 4th of July? It is frightening. People can answer pop culture questions, but none about politics or history.

"The national budget must be balanced. The public debt must be reduced. The arrogance of the authorities must be moderated and controlled. Payments to foreign governments must be reduced, if the nation doesn't want to go bankrupt. People must again learn to work, instead of living on public assistance. Who said it, George Bush, John McCain, or Newt Gingrich?
No, that was said by Marcus Tullius Cicero in 55 BC. Just before the Roman republic fell to Julius Caesar and the long decline of Rome began. About the same time the delegates were debating the limited powers of our Republic in Philadelphia, a scholar of the ancient world, Alexander Tyler, warned of the dangers of democracy and the arc of civilizations, when he said this: (the origin of the quote is disputed, but the logic has a razor sharpness.)
"A democracy cannot exist as a permanent form of government. It can exist only until the voters discover that they can vote themselves money from the public treasury. From that moment the majority always votes for the candidate who promises to give them the most, with the result that a democracy always collapses over loose fiscal policy followed by a dictatorship".
The average age of the world's great civilizations has been two hundred years. These nations have progressed through the following sequence:
From to spiritual faith;
from spiritual faith to great courage;
from courage to liberty;
from liberty to abundance;
from abundance to selfishness;
from selfishness to complacency;
from complaceny to apathy;
from apathy to dependence;
from dependency back again into"

My father quoted me this last paragraph after he told me the story about the nurse. He had forgotten who the author was. I was able to find it on the internet. I agree with my father that we are heading from apathy and complacency to dependency.

"In the end, more than freedom, they wanted security. They wanted a comfortable life, and they lost it all; security, comfort, and freedom. When the Athenians finally wanted not to give to society but for society to give to them, when the freedom they wished for most was the freedom from responsibility, then Athens ceased to be free and was never free again."
If you enjoyed the indented article above you can read it in its entirety on this blog.

http://thepatriotman1787.blogspot.com/2008/02/republic-if-we-can-keep-it-civics-101.html

This is a painting called The Old Man Wept by my favorite artist Del Parson. If you click on the picture to enlarge it you can see tears coming down Benjamin Franklins face.
If you want to read the constitution go to
http://www.usconstitution.net/const.html

A Message for all women

This was emailed to me. I googled it and was unable to find the original source. I hope the author doesn't mind me sharing it.

WHY WOMEN SHOULD VOTE


This is the story of our Grandmothers and Great-grandmothers; they lived only 90 years ago.

Remember, it was not until 1920 that women were granted the right to go to the polls and vote.

The women were innocent and defenseless, but they were jailed nonetheless for picketing the White House, carrying signs asking 
for the vote. 

And by the end of the night, they were barely alive. 
Forty prison guards wielding clubs and their warden's blessing 
went on a rampage against the 33 women wrongly convicted of 
'obstructing sidewalk traffic.' 


(Lucy Burns)
They beat Lucy Burns, chained her hands to the cell bars above 
her head and left her hanging for the night, bleeding and gasping 
for air.

(Dora Lewis) 
They hurled Dora Lewis into a dark cell, smashed her 
head against an iron bed and knocked her out cold. Her cellmate, 
Alice Cosu, thought Lewis was dead and suffered a heart attack. 
Additional affidavits describe the guards grabbing, dragging, 
beating, choking, slamming, pinching, twisting and kicking the women.
Thus unfolded the 'Night of Terror' on Nov. 15, 1917, 
when the warden at the Occoquan Workhouse in Virginia ordered his 
guards to teac h a lesson to the suffragists imprisoned there because 
they dared to picket Woodrow Wilson's White House for the right 
to vote. 
For weeks, the women's only water came from an open pail. Their 
food--all of it colorless slop--was infested with worms.

(Alice Paul) 
When one of the leaders, Alice Paul, embarked on a hunger strike,
they tied her to a chair, forced a tube down her throat and poured
liquid into her until she vomited. She was tortured like this for weeks 
until word was smuggled out to the press. 



So, refresh my memory. Some women won't vote this year because- 
-why, exactly? We have carpool duties? We have to get to work? 
Our vote doesn't matter? It's raining?

Last week, I went to a sparsely attended screening of HBO's new 
movie 'Iron Jawed Angels.' It is a graphic depiction of the battle 
these women waged so that I could pull the curtain at the polling 
booth and have my say. I am ashamed to say I needed the reminder.

All these years later, voter registration is still my passion. But the 
actual act of voting had become less personal for me. 
Frankly, voting often felt more like an obligation than a privilege. 
Sometimes it was inconvenient.

My friend Wendy, who is my age and studied women's history, 
saw the HBO movie, too. When she stopped by my desk to talk 
about it, she looked angry. She was--with herself. 'One thought 
kept coming back to me as I watched that movie,' she said. 
'What would those women think of the way I use, or don't use, 
my right to vote? All of us take it for granted now, not just 
younger women, but those of us who did seek to learn.' The 
right to vote, she said, had become valuable to her 'all over again.'

HBO released the movie on video and DVD . I wish all history, social studies and government teachers would include the movie in 
their curriculum I want it shown anywhere else women gather.
I realize this isn't our usual idea of socializing, but we are not voting in the numbers that we should be, and I think 
a little shock therapy is in order.

 It is jarring to watch Woodrow Wilson and his cronies try to persuade a psychiatrist to declare Alice Paul insane so that she could be permanently institutionalized. And it is inspiring to watch the doctor refuse. Alice Paul
was strong, he said, and brave. That didn't make her crazy.

 The doctor admonished the men: 'Courage in women is often mistaken for insanity.' 

We need to get out and vote and use this right that was fought so 
hard for by these very courageous women. Whether you vote democratic, republican or independent party - remember to vote.

History is being made.

Chewy Chocolate Brownies

My daughter just made these brownies from a recipe at becomingbetty.blogspot.com . She loves this website and has found some really good recipes! Check it out!

Man-Catcher Brownies
3 cubes unsalted butter
2 cups cocoa powder
6 eggs
2 cups sugar
2 cups brown sugar
2 Tbs. vanilla
2 cups flour
1 tsp. kosher salt

Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add cocoa and stir to combine. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Mix together the eggs, sugars, vanilla and cocoa mixture. Add flour and salt and stir until combined. Don't overmix. Spread batter evenly onto a greased jelly roll pan. Bake for 30-35 minutes at 350, or until a toothpick, inserted into center, comes out clean.

*She cooked these in a 9X13 pan which made them very thick. It takes about an hour.

This is the best brownie recipe I have found.

Organize your Refrigerator

I have these turn tables in my refrigerator. It allows me to move the shelf way up and put more things on that shelf.

Forever Strong

Forever Strong, is an inspiring movie worth supporting. I for one have a hard time giving Hollywood my money just to watch religious bigotry and no moral values portrayed on the screen. This movie shows accountability for bad choices, character, high values, forgiveness, and taking a higher road. It doesn't have bad language and has a very good message especially for teenagers. (Don't drink and drive, do , cheat on tests, and dishonor your family)
It is based on a true story of a coach that didn't want to just turn out good athletes, he wanted to turn out good human beings.
This movie opened in select cities last Friday. Hopefully people will support this good movie to send a message to Hollywood that we would like more movies like this one.
http://www.foreverstrongmovie.com

Christmas Tip #6

Here is my theory on wrapping paper. Costco or Sam's club usually has wrapping paper that isn't all the way Christmas. It is usually silver, cream or gold. I buy the huge bolt of it, not the cheap rolls that wrap one gift each tube. I leave it in my gift wrapping area and use it year round for weddings or showers. I like the simplicity of one paper and not having to store Christmas paper year round in my storage room. This year I bought gold. It might not be as fun looking as all the different papers, but it does look uniform and classy. (I think.)
When I was young, I knew a lady who rewrapped all the gifts that came into her home with the wrapping paper she used for her gifts, so every gift under the tree matched. Believe me I don't care that much about uniformity . It is the simplicity that I am looking for.

I also use Christmas gift bags year after year. What I do is leave that gift in the bag that it came in and knot it closed. I then put it in a plastic grocery bag and tie it closed. It is almost impossible to untie those bags. This helps keep the gifts a secret. It is like a little padlock. I put tissue paper over, to cover the tackiness of a grocery bag so it looks nice. At my house if I put an item in a bag and just put a piece of tissue paper over it, my kids would peek.

Here is the damage I have done so far. I will put bows on them when I am ready to put them under the tree. I am already feeling in control of the Christmas season instead of it controlling me.
Good Luck with your preplanning.

Christmas Gift Ideas-Christmas Tip #5

This is one of the nicest and most meaningful gifts I have been given. My daughter saw this idea at someone's house and made one for me on Mother's Day. She later gave one to her dad. I have them both hanging in my bathroom.
Here is how she made it. She printed out words about us in different sizes and fonts and printed them. She cut them out and glued them on a piece of scrapbook paper and framed it with frames that were in my basement. It didn't cost her any money and it was a big surprise. It is fun to see what she thinks of us and the spelling makes it that much cuter. If you click on it, it will enlarge.
I think adding one of these pictures to a kid's bathroom would be a real self esteem booster. I know it makes me feel good every time I read it.
Hanging above my son's bed, where only he can see it, are vinyl letters that say We're Proud of You. I thought that when he saw it, that he might take it down but it has been up for 3 years. He gets made fun of a little when friends see it but it is still there. Every one thrives on love, attention, affirmations and good words said about them.
This would be an easy, inexpensive gift to start working on for Christmas gifts.

I know there are some really creative people out there. If you do this project will you send me a picture? I would like to do some of these for my kids. Thanks!

This is one of my favorite "neighbor" gifts. It is a scripture printed on top of a printed flower picture. It was made on the computer and printed on nice paper. I put it into a fancy frame and it sits on a table in my entry way.

I love these inexpensive vinyl letters.

Here is a list of games my family likes
Cranium
Apples to Apples
Whoonu? (We played this last night. Fun for anyone who can read. You get to know what each other likes.
Phase 10
Pit
Uno

Gift Exchanges- Christmas Tip #4

This year what if you tried to simplify a few things. If you normally have to buy everyone you know a gift, what if you picked names this year? What if you were able to buy less more meaningful gifts?
I was in an extended family gift exchange for years.
At one time I was doing a gift exchange with my mother in law's family (7 gifts) and my father in law's family (7 gifts). I not only had to buy 14 extra gifts, but I had to wrap them and mail them all over the country. I did this ritual every year. Why was I buying a gift for an uncle in Florida and a cousin in Iowa?
I finally got brave and told the people in charge that I wasn't going to be in the gift exchange anymore. WOW! What a relief!!! Did I really get away with it? Yes,...... Nobody cared! ..... I would stress myself out every year and all I had to do was say NO. It's amazing how that little word can work.
If you love that type of thing do it. If it is a headache and makes your holidays no fun, opt out.
So far I have not changed my mind, but if I ever do, I'm sure they will let me back in. Maybe it is time for you to step out of a few of your have to's.