Vickie Hall, Author

Journey of Promise

2012-03-12T09:44:00.000-06:00

The title of part 2 of All That Was Promised has been decided! It will be called Journey of Promise. This story takes Richard and Leah Kenyon from Wales to America. I don't have an official release date as yet, but will let everyone know!

I'm currently working on a new manuscript titled Garden of the Gods, about Hawaii during the 1880s. This is a story about the Opunui family who join the church on Maui and move to the church owned plantation at Laie. From there they decide to leave their lush Hawaiian paradise for Zion, but Zion is less than hospitible to these Saints. A colony is established for the Polynesian Saints in the west desert of the Utah Territory of Skull Valley. They name the settlement Iospea (Joseph in Hawaiian), and create a new paradise for themselves. This story is based in historical fact and one that not many people know about. I received the journals of a man who grew up at Iosepa that assisted me greatly in understanding the culture, and the lives these wonderful people led. I'm submitting this soon and will keep you posted.

Review - The Alias by Mandi Tucker Slack

2012-03-05T10:09:00.000-07:00

Review – The Alias by Mandi Tucker Slack

After a long and difficult divorce, Jacey thinks the worst is over. Little does she know she’ll soon be forced to go undercover to protect her family, and in the process, she’ll risk losing her identity, her future, and her heart. With a lightening pace, a good dose of humor, and a plot that’s full of suspense, this thrilling novel is an edge-of-your-seat read.

My Take:

I really enjoyed this book! I found great sympathy for Jacey and her son Blaze as they attempt to put distance between themselves and Jacey’s ex-husband, an abusive thug and criminal. Jacey and Blaze flee Detroit for a quiet town in Utah. Jacey hopes to buy some time posing as Jacey’s friend Melissa, dropping in on Melissa’s estranged aunt and uncle. She and Blaze are received with open arms by these unsuspecting and loving “relatives”.

Slack adds just the right mix of characters and suspense to keep the pages turning, wondering what will happen to Jacey and Blaze. When the FBI gets involved things really heat up. I couldn’t stop reading!

The subject of spousal abuse is handled tactfully but rings true and gives the story a sense of realism. I felt great compassion for Jacey in her angst to protect her son.

The Alias is a good read, filled with humor, suspense, and a touch of romance. Great job Mandi! I can’t wait until the next book comes out!

You can buy The Alias here:

http://www.amazon.com/Alias-Mandi-Slack/dp/1599555093/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1329188694&sr=8-1

and here:

http://deseretbook.com/Alias-Mandi-Tucker-Slack/i/5067355

Integrity

2012-02-27T09:57:00.002-07:00

“It’s not what we eat but what we digest that makes us strong; not what we gain but what we save that makes us rich; not what we read but what we remember that makes us learned; and not what we profess but what we practice that gives us integrity.”

Francis Bacon, Sr.

“The strength of a nation derives from the integrity of the home.”

Confucius

“Achievement of your happiness is the only moral purpose of your life, and that happiness, not pain or mindless self-indulgence, is the proof of your moral integrity, since it is the proof and the result of your loyalty to the achievement of your values.”

Ayn Rand

“Have the courage to say no. Have the courage to face the truth. Do the right thing because it is right. These are the magic keys to living your life with integrity.”

W. Clement Stone

To me integrity means always doing what is right and good, regardless of the immediate consequences. Personal integrity implies such trustworthiness and incorruptibility that we are incapable of being false to a trust or covenant.

The world desperately needs men and women of integrity. Nearly every day we hear of fraud, misapplication of funds, false advertising, or other dealings designed to obtain or gain by cheating or deception. Government, business, and even education are in desperate need of integrity. The famous English author, Samuel Johnson, understood it and expressed it in these few words: “Integrity without knowledge is weak and useless, and knowledge without integrity is dangerous and dreadful.”

We can each begin to know where we stand on the principle of integrity by making an honest assessment of our hearts, our lives, our desires and goals, involving recognition of our faults. Then we should make a serious effort to set them right, to change directions toward the ideal of integrity and its virtues. When we have integrated all of these attributes within us, when they become the moving force of all our thoughts, and desires, then it may be said we possess integrity.

Scars

2012-02-22T10:01:00.000-07:00

I have a scar on my left hand from a cat scratch. There's one on my right arm where I ran my hand through a plate glass window when I was ten years old. A scar crosses my ankle where I had surgery once, and one on my finger from getting it pinched in a door. Scars heal, scab over, fade with time, yet we never seem to forget how we got them.

There are scars of a different kind, too. Scars that are on the inside. We all have them. We know how they got there. Some of these scars never seem to heal, never scab over and fade. They tend to remind us how fragile we can be.

I look forward to the time when the Savior will show me His scars, the nail prints in His hands, the piercing in His side, and I will know then that all my scars are healed, his wounds will heal my wounds, and I will be made whole again.

All That Was Promised - Part 2

2012-02-13T08:30:00.000-07:00

I received some wonderful news last week. Cedar Fort is going to publish Part 2 of All That Was Promised: All His Tender Mercies! This book continues the story of Richard and Leah Kenyon's as they heed the call to Zion. Their journey begins with faith and great sacrifice, but they're unprepared for the toll exacted on them by the Atlantic Ocean and the great Mississippi River. They call upon the Lord's tender mercies to see them through their hardships, strengthen their love for one another, and face the incredible odds mounted against them.

I will post the release date as soon I know!

I am currently working on a new manuscript about the Hawaiian Saints in the 1880s called Garden of the Gods. This is turning out to be an inspiring story and one I think needs to be told. So little is know about the Hawaiian Saints who came to Zion only to find a less than welcoming reception. Leaving their Hawaiian paradise they formed a colony in the desert of Skull Valley, Utah and made it their home.

Old Fashioned Carrot Pudding

2012-02-06T08:44:00.000-07:00

This recipe is a wonderful treat originating from Great Britain. I think you'll enjoy it!

Inggredients

1/2 cup shortening
1 cup white sugar
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
3/4 teaspoon salt
1 teasponn ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
1 cup grated carrots
1 cup raisins
1 cup chopped walnuts
3/4 cup white sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons cornstarch
1 pinch salt
1 1/4 cups hot water
3 1/2 teaspoons butter
3 1/2 teaspoons lemon juice
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Directions
In a large bowl, cream together the shortening and 1 cup of sugar until light and fluffy. Combine the flour baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves; stir into the creamed mixture until well blended. The mixture will be dry. Stir in carrots, raisins and chopped walnuts. Pour into a well-greased pudding mold or bundt pan. Cover the top with aluminum foil.

Place the pudding mold into a large kettle or Dutch oven filled with 2 inches of water. Cover the pan, and bring to a simmer. Allow the pudding to steam for 4 to 4 1/2 hours over low heat. Remove from mold. Servie with warm lemon sauce.

To make the lemon sauce, mix together 3/4 cup of sugar, cornstarch and salt in a saucepan. Stir in hot water, butter, lemon juice and vanilla. Cook over medium heat until thickened. Serve warm over the pudding.

Happiness Writes White

2012-01-30T09:23:00.000-07:00

"Happiness writes with white ink on white paper." Henry de Motherlant

This maxim is often shortened to "Happiness writes white." I ran across this phrase the other day, and it struck me as quite a thought provoking statement. Does happiness write white? It would seem so when you consider how many dark subjects find their way into music, poetry, art, and the like. So does sadness write black? Black can been seen on the page, while white, on white paper cannot. When we're happy we seem to live in the moment, we savor it while it lasts. Maybe we're too busy being happy to do anything about it. You only have to read an old journal to see that. Pages and pages are often attributed to hardship, pain, anguish, while happiness is seldom mentioned. Perhaps we don't write when we're happy because we're too busy living it. I hope that's the case.

Welsh Melting Biscuits

2012-01-17T11:59:00.000-07:00

1/2 cup butter, softened
3/8 cup white sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 egg yolk
1 cup self-rising flour
2 tablespoons cornstarch
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup rolled oats

1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Grease cookie sheets.

2. Cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg yolk and vanilla extract. Sift together the flour, cornstarch, and salt; stir into the butter mixture. Shape dough into 20 to 24 small balls, about 1/2 inch in diameter. Roll each ball in the oats and place about 2 inches apart on cookie sheets.

3. Bake 15 to 20 minutes until golden brown. Let cool on wire rack. Store in an airtight container.

A Sacrifice of Love

2012-01-09T10:17:00.000-07:00

I came across this touching story just after Christmas and wanted to share it with you. Sometimes it isn't what we take from life, but what we give.

Pocatello, Idaho - Jenni Lake gave birth to a baby boy the month before her 18th birthday, though she was not destined to become just another teenage mother. That much, she knew.

While being admitted to the hospital, she pulled her nurse down to her at bed level and whispered into her ear. The nurse would later repeat the girl's words to comfort her family, as their worst fears were realized a day after Jenni's baby was born.

"She told the nurse, 'I'm done, I did what I was supposed to. My baby is going to get here safe,'" said Diana Phillips, Jenni's mother.

In photographs, the baby's ruddy cheeks and healthy weight offer a stark contrast to the frail girl who gave birth to him. She holds the newborn tightly, kissing the top of his head. Jenni, at 5 feet and 4 inches tall, weighed only 108 pounds at the full term of her pregnancy.

The migranes started last year, when Jenni was a 16-year-old sophomore at Pocatello High School. She was taken to the family doctor, and an MRI scan found a small mass measuring about two centimeters wide on the right side of her brain. She was diagnosed with stage three astrocytomas brain cancer in October 2010. With three tumors on her brain and three on her spine, Jenni was told her case was rare because the cancer had spread from her brain to another part of her body with no symptoms.

In a picture taken at her prom in early May 2011, Jenni wore a dark blue strapless dress and gave the camera a small smile. There was a silver headband in her hair, which was less than an inch long. Chemotherepy took her shoulder-length blond tresses. Her boyfriend, Nathan cradles her from behind.

Jenni started dating Nathan a couple of weeks before she received her diagnosis. Their adolescent relationship withstood the very adult test posed by cancer, the treatments that left her barely able to walk from her living room to her bedroom, and the gossip at school.

Having been told she would probably become sterile from the cancer treatments, Jennis discovered she was pregnant and her journey was no longer her own. She was informed by the doctor to discontinue treatments or terminate the pregnancy and continue treatments. There was no discussion about which path Jenni would choose. She discontinued treatment.

Jenni didn't show regret for her decision, not in the final weeks of her pregnancy as she grew weaker, and not when she started to lose her vision as the cancer took its course. Jenni and Nathan named the baby Chad Michael. Jenni's last words were about her son as he was placed beside her a final time. As she felt for the baby, she said: "I can kind of see him."

Happy New Year

2012-01-03T09:28:00.000-07:00

A New Year's resolution is something that goes in one year and out the other.

New Year's Day - Now is the accepted time to make your regular annual good resolutions. Next week you can begin to pave the way to hell with them as usual.
Mark Twain

Here are some New Year's resolutions I plan to make and keep this year!

I will do less laundry and use more deordorant.

I will avoid taking a bath whenever possible and conserve more water.

I will read the manual...just as soon as I find it.

I will gain at least 2 pounds.

I will think of a password other than password.

I will eat healthier by adding more lettuce to my BLTs.

I will keep in touch with old schoolmates who have gained more weight than me.

I will learn to speak with a British accent.

I will spray whipped cream into my mouth every Saturday.

I will no longer waste my time worrying about the past; instead I will spend more time worrying about the future.

Just for today, I will not sit in my living room all day in my jammies. Instead I will move my computer to the bedroom.

I will spend one hour less on the internet each day. This, of course, will be hard to estimate since I'm not a clock watcher.

I hope 2012 brings you wonderful opportunities and rich blessings!
Happy New Year
Vickie

Mormon Bachelor Pudding

2011-12-27T09:31:00.000-07:00

Traditionally puddings were made more easily than cakes and with fewer ingredients. Here is one enjoyed by my ancestors, handed down through the family to become a favorite.

1 egg
2 tablespoons butter, melted
dash nutmeg
1 teaspoon lemon rind, grated
2 large apples, pealed and chopped
2 cups soft bread crumbs
1 cup raisins or currants
1/2 cup sugar

Butter a 1 qt. steamed pudding mold. Fit a deep pot with a rack and add water until it just reaches the top of the rack. Bring water to boil.
In a large bowl, beat the eggs with the butter, nutmeg, and lemon rind until well blended. Add the apples, bread crumbs, rasins, and sugar. Turn this dry, crumbly mixture into the prepared mold. Cover thightly and place on the rack in the pot with the boiling water (water should not touch the mold). Steam for 2 hours, adding boiling water as necessary. Unmold and serve hot with Golden Brown Sugar Sauce is desired.

GOLDEN BROWN SUGAR SAUCE
(Can be made ahead and refrigerated)

2 eggs, separated
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla

In a medium bowl, beat the egg whites until foamy; gradually beat in half the brown sugar, and beat until mixture holds firm but rounded peaks. In another bowl, beat the egg yolks with the remaining sugar until light and fluffy. In a third bowl, whip the cream until stiff. Fold all three mixtures together, and flavor with the vanilla. Chill until ready to serve.

Christmas Memories

2011-12-19T11:05:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite Christmases took place when I was nine years old. We were living in Montana then and my parents decided we should go to an area in the mountains where we could cut down our own Christmas tree. It was bitter cold with about three feet of snow on the ground. None of that seemed to deter us as we drove into the mountains with our tree permit in hand. My dad pulled over to the side of the road, brought out a hatchet and saw from the trunk of the car and off we went to find the perfect tree.

I remember how excited I was at the thought of cutting down our own tree. This would be a better tree, I thought, because it wouldn't come from the tree lot in town. It would be fresh and spicey and perfect. We hunted and hunted but my little sister and I didn't approve of any that Dad chose.

As we searched for the perfect tree my little sister found some acorns on the snowy ground and stuffed them into her coat pockets to take home. I was more interested in finding a tree than gathering acorns, but she was just as excited with her own find.

We located a tree that suited everyone, and my dad cut it down then tied it to the roof of the car. We drove home with our wonderful tree, thrilled with our find. As my dad was busy making a tree stand for it out of scraps of lumber, my sister took the acorns from her pockets and went to wash them in the bathroom sink. She filled the sink with warm water and deposited her treasures. The warm water had a strange effect on the acorns. They began to fall apart and turned the water murky. She called for my mom to come see what was wrong with the acorns. It turned out her acorns were really frozen deer droppings.

Well, you can imagine her horror. She'd had them in her pockets! And she'd touched them! Mom cleaned up the sink, washed my sister's coat and tried to assuage her embarrassment. I, however, found the incident hilarious and teased her mercilessly about her "acorns". It became one of those "precious" family stories, you know the kind, the ones that only serve to continually embarrass someone? To this day, all I have to do is mention acorns to my sister and the fun starts all over again.

I hope you all have a very Merry Christmas!
Share one of your favorite Christmas memories with us!

Apple and Carrot Christmas Pudding

2011-12-12T10:33:00.000-07:00

This is an old Welsh favorite and made by steaming, also a traditional method of cooking.

Ingredients
4 carrots, peeled and grated
2 apples - peeled, cored, and grated
1 cup raisins (optional)
1 cup fine bread crumbs
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 teaspoon ground allspice
2/3 cup butter
1/2 cup white sugar
4 eggs

1. Combine the carrots, apples, raisins, and bread crumbs in a bowl. Sift together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, baking soda, salt, nutmeg, and allspice in a separate small bowl. Cream together the butter, sugar, and eggs in a separate large bowl; stir in the flour mixture. Add the carrot mixture and mix well. Transfer mixture to a lightly-greased, 2-quart mold.

2. Place a steamer rack in the bottom of a large, deep pot. Set the filled mold on top of the steamer rack. Pour enough water into the bottom of the pot to cover the bottom 2/3 of the mold. Bring to a boil over medium heat. Reduce heat to low; cover. Simmer for 2 hours and 45 minutes, adding water occasionally to maintain the water level. Remove from water and allow to cool 10 minutes before turning out of mold onto a plate.

Christmas Traditions - Teach the Children

2011-12-04T13:33:00.000-07:00

Ever wonder where some of the Christmas traditions came from? Why do we have lights on the Christmas tree, hang wreaths on the door, and munch on candy canes? Years ago I came across a story I'd like to share. Using this story I created small toy bags with the items inside that I purchased from local craft stores around Christmas time. I made the bag from a piece of felt and used a ribbon to lace through the top to close it. I bought in miniature a star, a bell, a candle, a wreath, a fir tree, a bow, a red Christmas ornament, and a candy cane.
Here is the story:

Just a week before Christmas, I had a visitor. This is how it happened. I had just finished the household chores for the night and was preparing to go to bed when I heard a noise in the front of the hosue. I opened the door of the front room, and to my surprise, Santa Claus himself stepped out from behind the Christmas tree. He placed his fingers over his mouth so I would not cry out.

"What are you doing..." I started to ask, but the words choked up in my throat as I saw he had tears in his eyes. His usual jolly manner was gone--gone was the eager, boistrous soul we all know.

He then answered me with a simple statement of "teach the children." I was puzzled. What did he mean? He anticipated my question and with one quick movement brought forth a miniature toy bag from behind the tree. As I stood there bewildered, Santa said again, "Teach the children. Teach them the old meaning of Christmas--the meanings that Christmas nowadays has forgotten."

I started to say, "how can I..." when Santa reached into the toy bag and pulled out a brilliant shiny star. "Teach the children the star was the heavenly sign of promise long ages ago. God promised a savior for the world and the star was a sign of the fulfillment of that promise. The countless shining stars at night - one for each man--now show the burning hope of all mankind." Santa gently laid the star upon the fireplace mantle and drew forth from the bag a glittering red Christmas tree ornament.

"Teach the children red is the first color of Christmas. It was first used by the faithful people to remind them of the blood which was shed for all the people by the Savior. Christ gave His life and shed His blood that every man might have God's gift of Eternal Life. Red is deep, intense, vivid--it is the greatest color of all. It is the symbol of the gift of God."

"Teach the children," he said as he dislodged a small Christmas tree from the depths of the toy bag. He placed it before the mantle and gently hung the red ornament on it. The deep green of the fir tree was a perfect background for the ornament. Here was the second color of Christmas.

"The pure green color of the stately fir tree remains green all year round," he said. "This depicts the everlasting hope of mankind. Green is the youthful, hopeful, abundant color of nature. All the needles point heavenward--symbols of Man's returning thoughts toward heaven. The great green tree has been man's best friend. It has sheltered him, warmed him, made beauty for him." Suddenly, I heard a sort of tinkling sound.

"Teach the children that as the lost sheep are found by the sound of the bell, it should ring for man to return to the fold - it means guidance and return. It further signifies that all are precious in the eyes of the Lord. As the soft sound of the bell faded into the night, Santa drew forth a candle. He placed it on the mantle and the soft glow from its tiny flame cast a glow about the darkened room. Odd shapes in shadows slowly danced and weaved upon the walls.

"Teach the children," whispered Santa, "that the candle shows man's thanks for the star of long ago. Its small light is the mirror of starlight. At first, candles were placed on the trees--they were like many glowing stars shining against the dark green. The colored lights have now taken over in remembrance."

Santa turned the small Christmas tree lights on and picked up a gift from under the tree. He pointed to the large bow and said, "A bow is palced on a present to remind us of the spirit of the brotherhood of man. We should remember that the bow is tied as man should be tied, all of us together, with the bonds of good-will towards each other. Good-will forever is the message of the bow."

Santa slung his bag over his shoulder and began to reach for the candy cane placed high on the tree. He unfastened it and reached out toward me with it.

"Teach the children that the candy cane represents the shepherd's crook. The crook on the staff helps bring back the strayed sheep to the flock. The candy cane represents the helping hand we should show at Christmas time. The candy cane is the symbol that we are our brothers' keepers."

As Santa looked about the room, a feeling of satisfaction shone in his face. He read wonderment in my eyes, and I am sure he sensed admiration for this night.

He reached into his bag and brought forth a large holly wreath. He placed it on the door and said, "Please teach the children the wreath symbolizes the eternal nature of love; it never ceases, stops, or ends. It is one contiuous round of affection. The wreath does double duty. It is made of many things and in many colors. It should remind us of all the things of Christmas. Please, teach the children."

I had such fun making these little bags and handing them out to family and friends. I hope you do, too!

SERENITY

2011-11-28T11:07:00.000-07:00

Boredom is the feeling that everything is a waste of time; serenity, that nothing is.
Thomas Szasz

Serenity is something often elusive to me this time of year. I get so geared up for all of the doings and goings-on that I miss the simple joy of the Christmas Season. I have to stop and remind myself what is most important and ease back on the things that aren't so important.

I have always loved the Serenity Prayer and find wisdom in its powerfel simplicity, especially as we launch into the season full steam ahead.

God grant me the serentiy to accept
The things I cannot change,
The courage to change the things I can,
And the wisdom to know the difference.

I hope you'll take a moment during this busy time of year to find some serenity and peace in your life. (But, please don't wait until December 26th!)

Happy Thanksgiving

2011-11-21T09:30:00.000-07:00

No matter our circumstances we can always find something to be thankful for. This Thanksgiving, as you sit around the table, ask each person to share one thing he or she is thankful for. There's only one rule, you can't duplicate someone else's answer! Make a mental note of all the things you're thankful for and recall them throughout the year. Giving thanks for our many blessings should be done each and every day!

Here is a wonderful recipe for those who may not like sweet potatoes or yams for Thanksgiving, or to just change things up a bit. I hope you enjoy it!

ACORN SQUASH AND APPLES

1 acorn squash
2 apples, cored and sliced
1 tablespoon butter
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon finely chopped walnuts
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1. To easily peel the acron squash without losing a lot of vegetable, gently drop the squash in a large pot of boiling water, and boil for 15 minutes. Pour off the boiling water and fill with cold water and let sit 5 minutes to cool. When cool enough to handle, use a knife to slice off the peel on the ridges and use a teaspoon to dig out the peel in the valleys. Slice the squash in half and remove the seeds and stem. Then slice the halves into sections and finally cut into 1 inch chunks.

2. Place the squash chunks into a large microwave-safe bowl along with the apples. Dot with pieces of butter. Sprinkle the brown sugar, walnuts, salt and cinnamon over the top. Cover with plastic wrap, and poke a few holes in it for ventilation.

3. Cook in the microwae for 7 1/2 minutes on full power. Remove, uncover, and stir. Return to the microwave, and cook for another 7 1/2 minutes on full power, until tender. Serve hot.

May the Lord's choicest blessings be yours this Thanksgiving Day and every day!

Joy In The Simple Things

2011-11-14T10:37:00.000-07:00

We are shaped by our thoughts; we become what we think. When the mind is pure, joy follows like a shadow that never leaves.
Buddha

Joy is a net of love by which you can catch souls.
Mother Teresa

There is joy all around us, in every facet of life. Joy comes in moments, fleeting and often unrecognized. We become too busy to notice, too tuned to the hum of our everyday life to appreciate the moments of joy passing us by. Yet it's so easy to pause and take in the simple joys of life. There is joy in early spring tulips pushing up through Winter's sleep, the way a droplet of rain water hangs suspended on the tip of a leaf. There is joy in a dew covered spider's web, the gleeful laugh of a child, the smell of freshly baked cookies. There is joy in whispered truths of the Spirit, the way a cat curls into a ball of fluff, a snow-laden sky, the embrace of a loved one. Joy is whatever makes your heart sing, but so often those moments are drowned out by the noises of life. If we take time to pause, just for a moment to hear our heart singing, we might be amazed at what we have been missing all this time.
What brings you joy?

SNOW

2011-11-07T11:13:00.000-07:00

milky skies, cold dampness rends me still
to watch flakes fall with graceful ease
to hear the muted tones of softened white
that fills me with delight to see them
gather at my feet and powder branches full
serene now lays the quiet field
blanketed with silent snow

These thoughts came to me Saturday morning as I watched the first flakes fall this year. I love to watch it snow. I love the way the sky looks, the way the earth seems to still. Share some of your thoughts about snow, or your favorite poem about snow. I'd love to hear from you!

Celtic Pork and Apple Stew

2011-10-31T10:39:00.000-06:00

Now that fall is in the air, I thought I'd share a yummy recipe just right for apple season. This is an ancient-inspired stew I think you'll enjoy.

Ingredients:

2 1/2 pounds of pork meat (pork roast or loin)
2 tbsp oil
2 leeks, chopped (be sure to separate the leaves first and wash well)
1 lb greens (turnip tops, collard greens, kale are best) chopped
1 lb mushrooms, sliced
3 turnips, peeled, and chopped
3 apples, peeled, cored, and quartered
1 cup of apple cider
1/2 tsp dried thyme
1 tbsp chives
1 tsp dried sage
1 tbsp mustard seed, ground
salt, to taste

Add the oil to a large casserole or pot and use to fry the pork and leeks until the meat is nicely browned (about 8 minutes). Add the mushrooms and turnips and cook for 2 minutes then add the herbs, spices and cider along with 3 cups water. Bring the mixture to a boil then add the apples.

Reduce to simmer, cover and cook for about 90 minutes, or until the pork is truly tender. Season to taste, then served ladled into bowls and accompany with chunks of warm crusty bread.

The acid from the cider tenderizes the pork until it melts in your mouth! I love this served on a cool fall evening. Enjoy!

Interview and Book Giveaway

2011-10-28T09:28:00.000-06:00

My interview is on Kathy's blog along with a book giveaway!

http://iamareadernotawriter.blogspot.com/2011/10/book-giveaway-author-interview-all-that.html

Enter to win a copy of All That Was Promised.

Happy Halloween

2011-10-24T08:17:00.000-06:00

My mom died almost two years ago and my sister and I were going through boxes of her things. I came across a story I wrote when I was about 10 years old and thought I'd share it with you. I sure got a chuckle out of it and hope you do too. I've copied the story exactly as written.

THE WEBBED FOOTED MONSTER

There were three royal brothers who wanted to go on a hunting trip for a few weeks. They hired a giude named Pierre. The brothers names wer Jack, Peter and Jim. Peter got everything they needed and set out on there jouny. They went by boat and then by plane. They decided to keep the plane incase they needed anything else. They rented a cabin in Montana and stayed there. They heard there were bears up there so every night night they were going to guard the cabin, by taking turns. Pierre said he would do it the first time. The brothers decided to turn in. And Pierre gaurded the cabin. Soon they heard noises and Peter got out of bed and looked outside. And Pierre was GONE! Peter got dressed and went out to look for him. He walked a little ways and he saw a giant WEBBED FOOT PRINT! Peter went on a little ways more and he saw another. Soon he was lost. He was calling his brothers but no answer. All he could hear was this scratching and yelling and sceaming. He could hear it coming closer and closer. The to other brothers were beginning to worry about there brother. Jack said, "If he doesn't come back by morning will go and hunt for him". Well he didn't come back and so they set out to look for him. They to saw the foot prints and were wondering what was going to happen. After awhile they saw one of Peter's boots and then his hat and blood with bones and flesh all over. They were so scared but they kept on calling and looking. It was geting very dark and they decided to go back to their cabin. They got there and, all of a sudden they heard the sceaming and yelling and scatching. They ate and then went to bed. It was about midnight and Jim woke up soundly and he heard something calling him Jim, Jim. Jim got dressed and went out without a sound hipnotized by this strange voice. Jack woke up and saw his brother he got dressed and went out to find Jim. The giant webbed foot prints were still there only more of them. He saw his brothers coat torn to sheds. And more skin and bones and blood. He to heard the sceaming and yelling and scatching. And he saw the webbed foot moster! He was running, running, and running and he ran and got in the plane but the plane wouldn't start, finely he got the plane started and the sun came up and he looked back he saw that monster turned into Pierre. He flw to the nearest city and some people found him and took him to the hospital. Now this very day he is in the sychiatric ward in Idaho. Everyone there can hear him talking and all he says is no, no, no, and that's all he ever does. I heard on the radio an 8 year old boy was lost a night at Yellowstone Park. And they haven't found him yet. So if you happen to visit Yellowstone Park be carful.

I'm so glad my mom kept this little story. I love it, and her.

Success

2011-10-18T09:28:00.000-06:00

Don't aim for succes if you want it; just do what you love and believe in , and it wil come naturally.
David Frost

I don't know the key to success, but the key to failure is trying to please everybody.
Bill Cosby

Success is to be measured not so much by the position that one has reached in life as by the obstacles which he has overcome.
Booker T. Washington

We were placed on this earth to be a success. We're meant to have a secure and abundant life. Society defines succes as having material wealth, status, or recognition. By this standard I would say that all accomplishments are not success.

Choosing the right goal, not just any goal, is the key to achieving success. The right goal feeds ambition, incentive, determination and purpose. Each of us must decide what the right goal is, but it must be a worthy one in order to achieve success.

Prepare to achieve the right goal. We must learn, study and educate ourselves and be prepared for what we propose to do. Nothing comes without preparation. Success if doing. Without energy, drive, constant propulsion, we can never expect to become truly successful.

Success requires us to be resourceful. We will constantly encounter hazards, obstacles, unexpected problems or setbacks. Being resourceful allows us to remove those roadblocks. Perseverance is essential to success, as well. It's easy to quit and become discouraged. Remembering that our goal is worthy and worthwhile can help us forge ahead.

True success comes with divine guidance. When we allow God to help us choose the right goal He will help us prepare for it, propel us forward, teach us to be resourceful and lift us as we presevere. With His help our worthy goals will become successes.

Humility

2011-10-11T11:03:00.000-06:00

The dictionary defines humility as the act of being humble. Humble is defined as not proud or arrogant; modest. Many years ago I learned a different definitino of humility: To be humble is to be teachable. To be teachable we must be able to admit we don't know everything. When we approach life with a spirit of humility we often experience greater serenity and understanding.
Humility often allows us to handle challenges with a greater sense of peace. We often tend to react to life's challenges rather than respond to them.
We we serve in humilty the focus on ourselves, our problems, our weaknesses is replace with compassion and greater understanding of others.
When we exhibit genuine humility we gain value as a trustworthy person. People can count on us because we are not distracted with a self-serving attitude.
Because humility requires us to be teachable it also requires us to get on our knees and ask for help to remove pride, insecurity and selfishness from our lives. Humility is a virtue and one we can learn to embrace. It is a sign of strength and purpose. We can strive to be humble so long as we are teachable.

Faith

2011-10-03T12:19:00.000-06:00

Amidst the confusion of the times, the conflicts of conscience, and the turmoil of daily living, an abiding faith becomes an anchor to our lives.
Thomas S. Monson

Faith in something greater than ourselves enables us to do what we have said we'll do, to press forward when we are tired or hurt or afraid, to keep going when the challenge seems overwhelming and the course is entirely uncertain. Gordon B. Hinckley

I don't have a complete knowledge of how electricity works, but I know that when I flip a switch I'll have light. I don't have to know how to make the electricity or how to wire the house to accomplish this. I make sure I have a working lamp, a good light bulb and faith that when I flip the switch something will happen. Only then can I receive the light.

In faith I plant a seed, cultivate it, water it, tend it and soon I see the miracle of the blossoming. But the blossoming doesn't occur until I have first done all I can. I bring my abilities, my talents, my intelligence to the issues at hand first, then after all I can do, I place my faith in God to help me finish the task.

It wasn't raining when Noah built the ark. The miracle of the ark followed the faith manifested in building it. So it is in exercising our faith, for faith is a willingness to accept without total regular proof. We are encouraged firt to perceive with the eye of faith and then, through effort, to express that faith to a higher, nobler life.

Selsig Morgannwg (Glamorgan Sausages)

2011-09-26T13:02:00.000-06:00

This is a taditional Welsh recipe that I have come to love. There's no meat in the "sausages" as you'll see. Cheddar cheese and mustard powder were mainstays in the early Welsh diet, and still are today.
Try these cheese and breadcrumb sausages with a salad, or even as a snack!
I hope you enjoy them as much as I do.

4 oz. strong cheddar cheese, grated
4 oz. white bread crumbs
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 tsp mustard powder
1 tbl chopped parsley
pinch of thyme
salt and pepper
3 eggs
dried breadcrumbs for coating
oil for frying

In a bowl, beat two of the eggs and add the mustard, parsley, thyme, and seasoning. In a separate bowl, mix together the cheese, breadcrumbs and the onion. Now combine the egg mixture with the bread mixture. With floured hands, form the mixture into approximately 10 sausage-shaped rolls. Beat the remianing egg in a bowl, dip the sausages, coat them with dry breadcrumbs and fry in hot oil until golden brown. Drain well.

Fried, cheesy, and yummy. All wrong, but so right!

Balance

2011-09-19T12:55:00.000-06:00

The best and safest thing is to keep a balance in your life, acknowledge the great powers around us an din us. If you can do that, and live that way, you are really a wise man. Euripides

Fortunate, indeed, is the man who takes exactly the right measure of himself and holds a just balance between what he can acquire and what he can use. Peter Latham

We come into this world head first and go out feet first; in between, it is all a matter of balance. Paul Boese

Who hasn't wished at some point that there were more hours in a day? It sometimes seems that we spend so much time rushing from place to place or task to task that we don't actually accomplish anything except feeling more frustrated.

Too many of us are stretched too thin because we've bought into the myth that everyone can (and should) do it all. We should be able to juggle full-time work, church callings, spend quality time with our children and spouses and pets, spend time with our friends, do volunteer and committee work, get involved in causes, work at staying fit and healthy, and spend time relaxing and rejuvenating ourselves. With that much on your plate, it seems you're setting yourself up for failure. Wouldn't it be better to pare down your list of must-dos so that a few things can be accomplished each day, instead of trying to do everything everyday? A few well-earned successes are much better than feeling overwhelmed and imperfect.

Decide what roles and activities are important to you and live your life accordingly. And remember, there are seasons to your life, each one tailored to certain aspects that help accomplish balance. For instance, a young mother's focus is probably different than an empty-nester's. Find balance with the things that are most important and learn to let go of the rest. You're not on a runaway train, no matter how much is feels like it some days. You are the one in charge of your "train". You are the engineer and conductor. You decide when to stop and go, when to slow down and when to refuel.

Another modern myth that you have to disregard if you want to manage balance in your life effectively is the idiotic idea that we all have to be reachable and 'connected' all the time. We don't, and in fact, there are times when it's important or useful to be unreachable to everyone or everything except the person or task immediately in front of us. So recognize this and 'unplug' yourself when appropriate. And make yourself the manager of your technology rather than being managed by it.

One of the greatest helps for balance in life is prayer. Pray for guidance to know what tasks are truyly important for that day; sift away the unnecessary so that you can accomplish the most important things.

And now, the most important thing is this: practice saying to yourself over and over, "I don't have to do it all!"

Alaska Vacation

2011-09-12T14:37:00.000-06:00

What comes to mind when you think of Alaska? Snow? Bitter Cold? Igloos? Well I just got home from a 7 day cruise to Alaska and let me tell you, it blew me away! The thick lush forests were incredible and the mountain peaks exquisite. The glaciers were amazing and the weather was mild and mostly sunny. I was told, more than once, by the tour guides that the sun was an unusual sight, so I felt blessed to have seen Alaska at its best. I witnessed soaring eagles and breaching Orca whales, learned about the tenacity of early settlers, the dignity of the indigenous peoples, and gained an admiration for the breath taking beauty that is Alaska.

Of course I had to catalog my experiences for a future book possiblity. My great-grandfather on my mother's side went to the Klondike in search of gold. He returned a rich man but was spurned by my great-grandmother for leaving her alone with a child for several years. Anyway, thoughts about the possibilities poured through my mind as I learned about this magnificent state.

If you get the chance to visit Alaska you won't regret it! It's a truly marvelous place to see.

Honesty

2011-08-30T20:14:00.000-06:00

It is discouraging how many people are shocked by honesty and how few by deceit. - Noel Coward

No legacy is so rich as honesty. - William Shakespeare

The trite saying that honesty is the best policy has met with the just criticism that honesty is not a policy. The real honest man is honest from conviction of what is right, not from policy. - Robert E.Lee

It seems that in today's world honesty has become a dirty word. We see more evidence, as reported in the media, of dishonest behavior receiving greater attention, and even reward than honest behavior. It's a shame that our society has lowered its standards to such a point, encouraging and sustaining dishonesty as an acceptable characteristic of human kind. But what the news anchors or media outlets will never report are the countless honest things people do every day. I believe most people are honest in their dealings with others, honest in their actions, honest in their relationships, and honest in their deeds. Teaching our children that honesty is not an option, but a requirement toward a righteous life is a paramount lesson none of us can afford to exclude. I would rather suffer punishment for being honest than receive rewards for being dishonest.
Honesty is one attribute by which we judge each other most harshly, becuase it is the foundation of so much more.

Great Summer Recipe - Welsh Cucumber Spread

2011-08-15T15:59:00.000-06:00

What to do with the cucumbers we planted this year? Here's a quick and yummy recipe that will help out a bit. This makes a great spread/dip for a summer party or family reunion.

Welsh Cucumber, Cheese, and Chive Sandwich Spread

8 ounces cream cheese

½ medium cucumber, finely diced

1 spring onion, finely diced

1 tablespoon fresh mint, chopped or 1 teaspoon dried mint

Salt and black pepper

Allow the cream cheese to come to room temperature for about 10 to 15 minutes, to soften it slightly.

Add all the ingredients, EXCEPT the cucumber, and mix thoroughly.

Season to taste with salt and pepper, then add the diced cucumber and gently fold through the mixture. Check the seasoning once more.

Serve as a sandwich spread or as a dip for crudités; also wonderful with crackers and scones. This spread is delicious when served with smoked salmon.

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

A Beautiful World

2011-08-09T15:09:00.000-06:00

I had the joy of camping with my family last week. We went up into the Utah mountains and took a spot in a lovely campground. Surrounded by shadey trees and a flowing river I was struck by the serenity of the place as I sat during a lazy afternoon. I surveyed my vista with a healthy respect for the beauty of all God's creations. I marveled at how each creature, each plant, each insect intertwine in an intricate pattern of handiwork, interdependent upon one another for survival, each filling its own sphere of existence. This was testimony to me of God's amazing creation and how impossible it is for my finite human mind to comprehend His vast abilities. The peace of my campsite allowed me a moment to reflect on Nature in all her splendors and I was overwhelmed with gratitude for this beautful planet we call home.

Adversity

2011-08-01T12:07:00.000-06:00

When it is dark enough, you can see the stars. ~Ralph Waldo Emerson

I ask not for a lighter burden, but for broader shoulders. ~Jewish Proverb

I know God will not give me anything I can't handle. I just wish that He didn't trust me so much. ~Mother Teresa

We have no right to ask when sorrow comes, "Why did this happen to me?" unless we ask the same question for every moment of happiness that comes our way. ~Author Unknown

God brings men into deep waters, not to drown them, but to cleanse them. ~John Aughey

One thing is certain – no one escapes adversity. It does not generally come in the form of punishment, vengeance or retribution. Instead we face adversity not so that God can test us, but so that we can test ourselves, for He already knows the outcome.

The tests come for our experience and growth, to cause us to dig deep into the recesses of our souls and discover what we’re made of, what we believe, how we will respond. The lessons we learn can be endless, but are ultimately for our good if we will approach our life lessons with faith and humility.

Sometimes, as we are testing our resources to cope with adversity, we must bear in mind we are given nothing greater than we can handle. The Lord knows our limits, knows our threshold, if you will, and so, will provide us with the capacity to endure.

No matter how difficult, or even tragic our adversity may be, we must seek to understand what it is we are to learn from the experience. These lessons don’t always come immediately, and may not be realized for weeks, months, or even years. It doesn’t matter how long it takes to absorb the lesson, so long as we do.

With adversity also comes a need to trust in God. Since He is shaping and molding our lives, we must learn to trust in His will and believe that He knows what is best for us. Embracing this fact can free us from despair, feelings of failure, remorse, or sorrow. Understanding brings acceptance, acceptance brings resolution, and resolution brings us to the successful conclusion of our test.

Share some of your experiences with adversity. How has it shaped your life? How has if made you stronger? How do you cope with adversity?

Welsh Toffee Cyflaith

2011-07-26T10:02:00.000-06:00

This is a delicious receipe and a fun family activity!

8 cups dark brown sugar

2/3 cup boiling water

3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, pulp strained out

16 tablespoons salted butter, softened (1/2 pound)

Using an enameled or stainless steel saucepan over low heat, gradually dissolve the sugar in the boiling water. Stir it continuously with a wooden spoon until the sugar is thoroughly dissolved. This usually takes from 20 to 30 minutes.

Remove the saucepan from the heat, add the lemon juice and the softened butter, and stir them into the sugar. Boil this mixture fairly briskly, WITHOUT STIRRING it, for 15 minutes.

Gently drop a teaspoonful of the mixture into a cupful of cold water; if it hardens at once, it has reached the required consistency (soft-crack stage).

Pour the mixture slowly onto a buttered marble slab or large flat dish. Do not scrape the saucepan clean as the scraping might turn the toffee back into sugar.

Use extra butter to butter your hands. Pull the taffy into long golden strands while it is still hot. Cut the taffy in smaller pieces. Makes about 3 pounds.

The Journals of James and Ann Ellis

2011-07-18T09:37:00.000-06:00

Since some of the inspiration for writing All That Was Promised came from the journals of my great-great grandparents, I’ve been asked what parts of the book are factual, or based on the journals, and what is fiction. So here goes.

The characters Richard and Leah Kenyon are loosely based on my ancestors. My great-great grandfather, James Ellis converted to the LDS church in Wales in 1851. His wife, Ann, was hesitant about the new religion and didn’t join as quickly as he did. But once fully converted, she was devoted her entire life.

James became the Cardiff Branch President (as does Richard) and was instrumental in growing the Cardiff Branch. He met and hosted many of the Church authorities, including Dan Jones (mentioned in the book) John Taylor, and Orson Pratt.

James carved a love spoon for Ann as a sign of his affection. This is included in the book as well. Leah’s beloved Blue Willow china was taken from Grandmother Ann who treasured the dishes so much she brought them with her to Zion.

Both grandparents had a great love of singing which I carried throughout the book. (The Mormon Tabernacle Choir was founded by a Welsh convert and originally consisted of many Welsh Saints. Singing is an integral part of the Welsh culture.)

The journals talk about the missionaries who walked miles and miles until their feet were bloodied from the cobblestone streets. Grandmother Ann cared for these men with great compassion and this became Leah’s legacy as well.

The journals recount episodes of persecution from various ministers in the area, the publishing of anti-Mormon pamphlets and vigorous preaching against the new religion. Members were spat upon, beaten, and harassed, all of which are depicted in the book.

In reality, James and Ann had two children, Hyrum and Annie while living in Wales. Ann was pregnant after they arrived in New Orleans and lost the baby after falling into the Mississippi River.

The Ellis family settled in Farmington, UT, in the area where Lagoon Amusement Park resides today. They later were asked by Brigham Young to go to Cache Valley. The Ellis family was one of five families to settle Logan. Many years later my grandfather became superintendent of the school district. The Ellis School, named after him, is still standing in Logan today.

In the sequel to All That Was Promised, the Kenyon family endures continued hardships in establishing the funds to immigrate to Zion. After great sacrifice and setbacks, they sail from Liverpool, England and arrive in New Orleans. From there they take a riverboat up the Mississippi River where it joins with the Missouri. They take a second riverboat to Council Bluffs where they winter before setting off for Zion. Many other details from the journals are included in the sequel.

I am so grateful for the legacy my ancestors have left me and the ability I have been given to voice their stories. It has truly been a privilege and an honor.

Happiness

2011-07-10T18:13:00.001-06:00

"We tend to forget that happiness doesn't come as a result of getting something we don't have, but rather of recogizing and appreciating what we do have." Frederick Keonig

Several years ago I had a friend who complained of her unhappiness. She told me that once married she was sure she’d be happy. She got married, convinced her happiness had arrived. But soon she found she wasn’t happy after all. She then believed that once she had a baby she would be happy. She had three babies and still did not find her happiness.

Nothing or no one can create your happiness. That we must do for ourselves. Those who search outside themselves for happiness are sure to be disappointed, just as believing happiness will only come when our lives are perfect. For happiness to develop it means we’ve decided to look beyond the imperfections in our lives and embrace what we have. Happiness is not the absence of problems but the ability to deal with them.

If only my friend of years ago had recognized what she had; a loving husband, three healthy children and a life filled with possibilities. Instead she was waiting for someone to unlock her happiness when all along she possessed the key.

Review from Deseret News/Mormon Times 6-30-2011

2011-07-04T16:20:00.001-06:00

ALL THAT WAS PROMISED - Bonneville Books
Set in Cardiff, Glamorganshire, Wales, between 1847 and 1848, this piece of historical fiction gives us a glimpse into what early Welsh converts to the LDS faith might have experienced.
In a well-spun tale, Vickie Hall takes us into the lives of Richard Kenyon, a Methodist minister, and his family. When Kenyon joins the LDS faith, converted by American missionary Ben Lochlan, his wife, along with most of his congregation, thinks he has taken leave of his senses, and the rocky relationship with his only brother, Robert, becomes even more strained.
Personal challenges in the Kenyon family, partly the result of Richard's conversion, stretch family members to the limit.
Persecution against the members of the fledgling branch in Cardiff is severe. Another local minister, a barmaid and Richard's own brother contribute to the anti-Mormon sentiment and opposition, which takes the form of bullying, beatings and the destruction of property and lives.
Through it all, faith in the Lord and miracles large and small, keep the fledgling branch in Cardiff alive and growing.
The author has done enough research to incorporate Welsh phrases, folklore, customs and descriptions of the Welsh countryside that sketch a picture of Cardiff and the surrounding area during this time period.
Although there is a historical base for the book, it is definitely a romance novel, and one that would appeal mostly to women - older teens and adults.
- Rosemarie Howard

Welsh Rice Pudding (Whipod)

2011-06-27T08:54:00.003-06:00

As I wrote All That Was Promised, I wanted to incorporate an authentic texture of Welsh life in the 19^th century including authentic foods, dialects, history, and traditions. Mentioned in the journals of my Welsh ancestors, rice pudding, or whipod, was a perennial favorite. Staying true to this Welsh tradition I discovered a time-honored recipe for this delicious desert and offer it to you here. I have made it several times and can tell you it is rich and creamy, wonderfully flavorful, and guaranteed to satisfy! Enjoy!

Whipod (Welsh Rice Pudding)

4 cups half and half (or heavy cream)

6 egg yolks

2 egg whites

1/2 cup white sugar

1/4 cup raw sugar (turbinado)

1/2 heaping cup of rice (arborio or other short grain rice)

1/2 teaspoon sea salt

1 heaping teaspoon cinnamon

1 cup water

1 cup currants (raisins may be substituted if necessary)

1. In a heavy bottomed saucepan combine the 1/2 and 1/2, water, rice and cinnamon. Bring to a low boil over medium-low heat, and then cover the pan and reduce to a simmer for 20 minutes, stirring often. Transfer the ingredients to a large bowl, and allow to cool for 30 minutes.

2. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.

3. In a large mixing bowl whisk the egg yolks and egg whites together, then beat in the sugar until creamy. When the rice and cream mixture has cooled, slowly whisk in the egg/sugar mixture into the rice. (Make sure that the rice mixture isn't too hot, to prevent the eggs from scrambling)Finally stir in the currants.

4. Pour this creamy/rice/currant mixture into a heat-proof bowl or pot and put into the oven to bake 20 minutes at 350 degrees. After the first twenty minutes, remove from the oven and stir the mixture fully to make sure the rice and currants are not sticking to the base of the bowl. And again, after 20 additional minutes, remove the pudding from the oven and stir everything, add a little more milk if the mixture is getting a little too dry. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 20 minutes to develop a golden crust on top. (The pudding will bake for a total of 60 minutes.)

5. Serve warm or cold. Refrigerate leftovers if there are any.

Welsh Love Spoons

2011-06-22T08:55:00.000-06:00

My book, All That Was Promised, takes place in 1847 Wales. I make mention of “Love Spoons”, one of which was carved and given to a central character, Leah, by Richard Kenyon.

The carving of love spoons originated in Wales hundreds of years ago. The oldest known example is dated at 1667, but the tradition goes back much farther than that.

The young man would spend hours carving his love spoon with his own hands with the hope that the girl would accept it. If she did they began a courtship. This is where the term “spooning” originates.

The spoons were symbolic of the young man’s love and devotion. Spoons also suggested food on the table, and a cozy home life, which would impress the girl with his ability to care for her.

Many of the symbols carved into the spoons conveyed a variety of meanings. A chain would mean a wish to be together forever, a diamond wealth or good fortune, a cross conveyed faith, a flower indicated affection, or a dragon could imply protection.

If the young man succeeded in capturing the girl’s heart, his love spoon would become a treasured possession and was often displayed on the wall of the home.

Even today, the love spoon is a tradition kept among the Welsh. They are given for birthdays, holidays, weddings, births, christenings, anniversaries, and other special occasions.

My Welsh great-great grandparents, James and Ann Ellis, wrote in their journals of a love spoon carved by James and given to Ann prior to their marriage. Their journals became a great resource to me in writing All That Was Promised and provided me with a real sense of life in 19^th century Wales.

Laughter

2011-06-18T20:26:00.000-06:00

“With the fearful strain that is upon me night and day, if I did not laugh I would die.”

Abraham Lincoln

“The most wasted of all days is one without laughter.” e.e. cummings

“I am thankful for laughter, except when milk comes out of my nose.” Woody Allen

Laughter is your birthright. Infants begin smiling during the first weeks of life and laugh out loud within months of being born. A child laughs 400 times a day. An adult laughs about 15 times a day. What happened to the other 385 times? It is said that laughter is the best medicine, and research supports the old adage. It has been proven that laughter strengthens the immune system, boosts energy, diminishes pain, and protects against the damaging effects of stress.

Laughter is like a magnet. We’re drawn to the sound of it. If someone is laughing we want to know what made them laugh so we can laugh, too. I know of nothing else on earth that holds such a contagious character.

Laughter makes us happy. Shared laughter strengthens relationships. Laughter helps us cope with difficult situations and helps us keep an optimistic outlook on life. Even in the most difficult of times, a laugh, or even a simple smile can ease our pain.

So smile. Chuckle. Laugh. Look for the humor in every situation. And remember, it is bad to suppress laughter. It goes back down to your hips.

Vickie

Welcome To My Blog!

2011-06-15T19:52:00.000-06:00

I have a passion for writing and a passion for life. I hope to combine a little bit of both here. There is so much to be grateful for and so much we can share to make our journey a little easier. That's what I hope to do...make our journey a little easier.

Individuality

2011-06-15T09:58:00.001-06:00

We live in a society that constantly dictates who and what we should be. We are sold a bill of goods we can never measure up to. We are told we are never thin enough, never rich enough, never pretty enough, never smart enough. In fact, we are told we will never be as good as “them”. Our media preys upon our feelings of inadequacy, feeds us role models of celebrity that focus only on the worldly aspects of life and who measure their own self-esteem by what they can afford to buy. When we then hold our standards to such a level we fail in our attempts to measure up, to be like “them”, as if being ourselves is not an option.

To wish we were someone else is to waste who we are. There is no one individual like you, no one. You are a one-of-a-kind unique creation that should be celebrated for being just who you are. We tend to focus on our inadequacies, our faults, our shortcomings, and certainly we can always improve ourselves. But first, we must believe in ourselves. We must embrace who we are as a matchless human being and take pleasure in our individuality.

Psalms 139:14 “I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made; marvelous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well.”

In other words, God don’t make no junk. Celebrate your uniqueness, your own voice, your own contributions to life. Billie Holliday said it best when she said, “If I’m going to sing like someone else, then I don’t need to sing at all.”

Raise your voice and sing on!

Vickie

Positive Attitude

2011-06-13T20:05:00.000-06:00

One of the most important factors of life is the attitude with which we approach it. It colors every aspect, every decision and every relationship we encounter. Whether we choose to be positive or negative generates a ripple effect that can have lasting repurcusions. Attitude is indeed a choice. Some believe we are helpless in this realm, that we simply are what we are, either a positive thinker or a negative thinker. I contend it truly is a choice, and one that takes exercising to become a habit. My grandmother, bless her heart, was one of the most negative people I ever encountered. To hear her speak you would think she had lived the most agonizing life ever lived on earth. Her opinions of others were focused on their faults, her daily experiences were centered on finding misery in everything, including making others as miserable as she was. Now, I will admit she didn't exactly have an easy life, but then who does? The fact is, despite her early years of difficulty she never overcame her negativity and failed to appreciate her wonderful accomplishments as a wife, mother, and member of the Church. Everything was lessened by her attitude. What a shame she couldn't more fully appreciate the great and wonderful gifts she had been given.
Coming to understand that attitude is a choice is the first step to making real inroads to a happier, more productive life. Choose to be positive. Choose to find the good in every situation, even when you are tempted to throw your hands in the air and call it quits. There is power in a positive attitude. There is success in a positive attitude. Make your choice and watch your life change.
Vickie