Annie O

Book Review

2012-02-10T14:28:00.001-07:00

Hard Time by Sara Paretsky

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Not my favorite VI book but it was an entertaining read in early February when not a lot else is going on. This felt flat and tired. In some places it went on too long and then all wrapped up too neatly too quickly.

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Self-published authors find e-success – USATODAY.com

2012-02-06T12:04:00.000-07:00

Self-published authors find e-success – USATODAY.com

An Army of Authors and Friends!

2012-02-06T11:50:00.001-07:00

An Army of Authors and Friends!

Self-published authors find e-success – USATODAY.com

2012-01-19T14:46:00.000-07:00

Self-published authors find e-success – USATODAY.com

If you're still out there and occasionally checking my blog, bare with me as I make an argument for self-publishing. I want to do some consulting on this idea (and maybe there's a book in my future) and so I'm going to collect my ideas and thoughts here. Please feel free to chime in and give me feedback and advice.

2011-11-28T13:42:00.002-07:00

Birthmarked by Caragh M. O'Brien

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Good, really good. Not Hunger Games good but pretty good. I will certainly read the next book. The female protagonist was believable and sympathetic. On occasion I felt like "that's too much of a coincidence to be believable." But I recommend this to those who enjoy YA novels.

View all my reviews

The Mill River Recluse

2011-11-15T08:48:00.000-07:00

The Mill River Recluse by Darcie Chan

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Probably a 3 1/2 stars. This was a pleasant story. A little predictable and not deep enough character development but a pleasant story.

View all my reviews

Germany October 2011

2011-10-21T16:41:00.000-06:00

My annual trip to the Frankfurt Book Fair included a weekend visit with my favorite German family, the Schlossers. From left to right, Kerstin, Gerhard, Dagmar, and Bettina.

Here we are celebrating Kerstin's birthday with a fabulous torte and chocolate kuchen both made by Dagmar.


Kerstin modeling her birthday hat and sweater

Raspberry torte

We Give Books - News

2011-09-16T09:51:00.000-06:00

We Give Books - News

Windstorm Downs Trees, Kills Idaho Falls Man - Local News Story - KIFI Idaho Falls

2011-08-22T12:49:00.000-06:00

Windstorm Downs Trees, Kills Idaho Falls Man - Local News Story - KIFI Idaho Falls

As a family we spent many Sunday evenings at the Carney home enjoying games and homemade ice cream. Sorry to see Louis go but what a way to go. My heartfelt sympaties go to LuJuanna. Those were great memories.

ksl.com - Utah students accept challenge, help others, earn scholarships

2011-08-09T13:03:00.001-06:00

ksl.com - Utah students accept challenge, help others, earn scholarships

Way to go Daysa! We're proud of you and all your great accomplishments.

Why Are Mormons Rising in Business, Politics?, Christian News

2011-07-27T13:14:00.000-06:00

Why Are Mormons Rising in Business, Politics?, Christian News

Australia Trip 2011

2011-05-06T14:00:00.002-06:00

Day One in Sydney was quite the adventure. My dad and Dave were in a car accident. Their taxi was broadsided by a car that ran a red light.

This is my dad.

Phil and Kent with Dad at the hospital.

Damage to the building they hit.

After the accident, the vacation was more of what a vacation should be. Sun, surf, sand, good food, and great family.

We actually pet these koalas as they napped.

Dolphins surfing in our boat's wake.

Moreton Island Sand Dunes. The red spot at the top is a person.

Aerial view of the wrecks where we snorkeled

Mooloolaba Tide Pools

LOVE The Biggest Loser

2011-04-28T11:18:00.002-06:00

I'd love to know the REAL reason. http://bit.ly/m42aWo

And I'm disappointed that Kaylee didn't go further.

Join One Million Moms and make a difference

2011-03-08T14:23:00.000-07:00

I'm tired of feeling helpless and frustrated. I hope that by joining in the fight and adding my name to the list of other concerned parents my voice might be heard. Click on One Million Moms link below and join.

Have I told you that my children are brilliant?

2011-02-24T13:40:00.000-07:00

From my daughter Laney:

If you couldn't tell, this is Miami, and those are Palm Trees along the beach. And we aren't going just for spring break, I am actually attending a conference there- but we are going to stay a few extra days and make a vacation out of it. Anyway, turns out my committee chair for my masters thesis, submitted my paper to the Institute for Public Relations Research for their annual conference, and it was accepted- and out of all the papers submitted, it won the Top Three Paper Award! Anyway, so I get to go down and present the paper and accept the award. I am a little nervous for that part. The conference is going to have all the top Public Relations Academians from around the country, but I am excited too. What's the worst that can happen? Taylor joked that I should look into some PhD programs while we are there- I laughed and then told him I'd rather die than write a dissertation. I really hated writing that thesis. It was so hard.

My Funny Valentines

2011-02-11T10:50:00.000-07:00

Digital greeting made with Smilebox

Oswald Family Adventures #1

2011-01-04T09:58:00.001-07:00

One of my many new year's resolutions is to chronicle our family adventures beginning Christmas Day 2010. Thanks Leisy for capturing the pix and the story!

Most ridiculous place to go at night when it's below freezing due to wind chill: Niagara Falls.

We decided to go anyway.

It was beyond freezing. Not only was the wind chill bone aching- we also got WET. The falls continue to emit their famous 'mist' even in the dead of winter. The walkways are completely iced over and anything in the vicinity is completely overtaken by a THICK shell of ice. And did I mention that the views were LAME-o?! You can't see a thing because they close the best viewing walkways due to dangerous conditions.
The sum of all those factors made our late night excursion pretty darn fun.

Check out these happy binocs!

If you haven't seen the falls lit up at Christmas time- I don't really recommend it- but if you have to go- you might as well go with a group of fun people :) We really did enjoy the screaming and slipping and freezing. Because who isn't laughing and smiling when they're this miserable?! Our family tends to make the best out of every situation :)

And it was all worth it to the kiddos because we got to go back to the hotel afterwards and grandpa treated the boys to cheetos and hot chocolate.

They were in heaven.

And the little ones just crashed.

Milly in her boy coat.

And Ike on Daysa's lap. Thanks, Days.

New Year's: Look Not behind Thee

2011-01-03T11:15:00.000-07:00

Here's to a spiritually and physically strong 2011!

The Ink-Keeper's Apprentice

2010-11-15T11:51:00.001-07:00

The Ink-Keeper's Apprentice by Allen Say

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

I read this in a day--it's interesting, the writing is good, I liked the protagonist but I never felt strongly connected. I guess my own personal views got in the way of accepting his choices. I went into this book really wanting to know more about Japan right after WWII but the book didn't give me enough.

View all my reviews

Harvest Stew Recipe | Taste of Home Recipes

2010-10-18T10:52:00.003-06:00

Harvest Stew Recipe | Taste of Home Recipes

I made this for a progressive dinner party on Saturday and I got rave reviews. You know they like it when you hear from those not at the dinner that they want the recipe too. I used fresh basil and sage from my garden instead of rosemary and rubbed sage. I also served this with multi grain whole wheat bread and it was perfect for an October evening. (click on the link above the pic for the recipe)

The leftovers we had for Sunday dinner yesterday and it was just as good the next day. I also tried to get my family and friends to guess the secret ingredient (apples)--no one was able to guess. Try offering a reward and see if anybody can get it.

Book Review

2010-10-14T08:58:00.000-06:00

I really really liked this book. I would have given it five starts except I reserve 5 stars for classics and for books I think everyone should read. This book had some REALLY gritty parts which some of you might not like.

The female protagonist is strong and vulnerable and really quirky. The male protagonist is real. The story is woven between the two and comes together nicely. I liked too how they tied up both story lines and didn't leave me hanging on the stories although it does on the character story line.

I will definitely read books two and three. I'm only sorry that Stieg Larsson won't be writing lots more.

Dead Lift ARC

2010-09-29T10:55:00.000-06:00

This is a quick and entertaining detective read. The story actually had a lot less to do with the plastic surgery world which is what pulled me in from the description but I stayed with it because I really liked the story line. I really like the protagonist, Emily--she's real and she's not a seasoned investigative professional which gives her a different spin than all the others out there. I'll look for more novels by this author.

FUNNIEST BLOG POST I'VE EVER READ

2010-09-24T08:31:00.002-06:00

From my daughter Leisy in Toledo OH:

Have I mentioned that I have an unhealthy infatuation with "Groupon"? The first thing I think about when I wake up in the morning is the new day's deal. Sometimes I'll even get up at midnight to see what it is!

A few weeks ago we purchased a family pass to the African Wildlife Safari Park in Port Clinton for a mere ten bucks. It's the best ten bucks we've spent in a long time. I would even venture to say that the craziness we experienced would have been worth FULL price had we paid it. And I rarely think anything is worth full asking price!

I took hundreds of pictures- literally. I've included a small (comparatively) smattering of them. I hope that you they paint a small picture of the joy we experienced.

Of all the pictures I took, this is possibly my favorite. It describes our day perfectly. A mix of terror, amazement, and stupefaction combined with pure amusement (kent and I were amused anyway!).

This one tells the story, too.

As soon as we entered the safari gates (think tall giant reinforced gates like those on Jurassic park!!) we were literally AMBUSHED by the most ridiculous herd of female elk you've ever seen. Holy Smokes. They need to have some warning that informs you to NOT unroll ALL four of your windows at once. We seriously were under attack from every side. The kids were SOBBING.

Kent and I were beside ourselves laughing. We couldn't roll up any windows. We couldn't drive forward or back because we were surrounded and we were all being squished. I'll be honest- I usually laugh really hard when I shouldn't. This was one of those times. I'd be lying if I told you I wasn't quite terrified myself.

Somehow I pushed giant elk heads out of the car while Kent tried his best to inch forward and inch the widows up. After a few minutes of terror- we got passed the 'elk zone'.

Next came the little deer looking critters. They are all from Africa so I'm assuming they aren't deer- but we'll call them that to make things easier. These little guys were really cute and far less combative. They loved nibbling on the free pellets we got to hand out. They waited their turn and didn't try to steal fingers.

Ike definitely enjoyed these guys the most. I think it helped that they were too small to fit entire body segments in our car. Some of them could barely reach the windows.

Next came the llamas and alpacas. Or at least what looked like llamas and alpacas.They were nice- but Zeb was still scared by the elk behavior and didn't want any more animals in the car. He was full of all sorts of requests. "Would you please just put up my window, dad?" "can we please just go to the zoo instead, dad?" "I'm all finished with the African Safari now, dad"

This guy was Kent's favorite.

We quickly entered another danger zone. All sorts of animals with really large horns and really big bodies. Buffaloes/bison, these giant things that looked like texas longhorns, and some unidentified antlered creature.

We were worried that this guy was going to damage the car. I bet his horn span was six feet.

And the buffalo/bison were just humongous. When we went around a second time we made sure to keep our windows closed around these guys. They were just too big and could have literally picked up our car.

They had carrots you could buy to feed the animals- but they were priced like gold. Luckily I'd read reviews ahead of time and we'd come prepared with our own bags of carrots.

I'm really glad we did bring our own carrots- because they saved the best animals (the giraffes) for last and they would ONLY come to your car for carrots. They wouldn't take the pellets.

I could not believe how close we could be to the giraffes. They were AMAZING and SO BIG!! This guy was trying to eat my camera.

Both boys actually really loved the giraffes until this one tried to lick zeb's stomach. He was all smiles until that tongue went crazy.

He was really just trying to get the carrot- but Zeb was too scared to figure out that he just needed to let it go.

here's a shot of the giraffe coming in past me in the front seat to get a carrot from Kent. Check out that tongue!! I was close enough to see the saliva.

and check out the eyelashes. These creatures are really really amazing. And so so big.

Our afternoon was so much fun. I'm pretty sure Zeb will remember it forever. We figure since he's three- and the day was so eventful/traumatic/fun- it will probably be one of his first good memories :)

Our car is now in desperate need of a car wash and vacuum but we all had such a blast. I haven't laughed that hard in a long time!

Posted by Kent and Leisy

For the Sherlock and Anglophile Fans

2010-09-20T12:18:00.000-06:00

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This started out slow (I got the book at BEA back in May and started it then)but a few chapters in it picked up speed. I enjoyed the read and really enjoyed what I learned about Arthur Conan Doyle. The one thing I didn't like was the fact that we never found out WHY the murderer committed the murders. And in some places it was too convenient and in other places it was too predictable.

I feel myself leaning towards 3 1/2 stars but I did enjoy the story and the history.

View all my reviews

Milly and Henry

2010-09-03T08:43:00.001-06:00

This is ADORABLE! I miss Henry and Milly (whoever would have thought?). This is for sure one way to get us to come see you soon or pay to bring them back here. Hello Henry! Hello Milly! Nannie Annie and Grumpa miss you.

Summer Memories

2010-08-31T20:42:00.000-06:00

Ahhhh, the last day of summer: August 31. School started on the 25th for Daysa, we've attended two high school football games already, Taylor and Laney and kids left on the 21, August 28 I taught my first 7H class of the semester, Phil and I celebrated another anniversary, attended a H.S. reunion, and it's dark by 8:30 now.

Anyway, here are a few pics worth sharing.

Deadly Animals (Come to Australia)

2010-08-30T12:29:00.000-06:00

So we're seriously considering visiting Australia next March. This makes me a wee bit nervous.
Should we stay or should we go? Thanks Dave--does this mean you want us to join you down under or you're trying to scare us away?

Read it and loved it.

2010-08-26T11:03:00.001-06:00

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I thoroughly enjoyed the book. There were times in the book I was slightly bored but I loved the ending--it wasn't all neatly tied up and sweet and syrupy which is one of the things I love about the series. I love that Katniss is a real girl with real conflicting emotions. She's not flat and she's not a super hero.

It is a tear jerker in some places.

So all in all, the book lived up to expectation.

Daysa, my 16 year old started it yesterday and she'll probably be done today--she says she loves it.

View all my reviews

Charlotte Figg

2010-08-19T09:28:00.000-06:00

This is a delightful and sweet book and totally a chick book. I felt like I personally got to know Charlotte and her neighbors. I enjoyed watching Charlote "grow up" spiritually and emotionally.
If you're looking for a nice story with nice people and a nice ending with a good message, this is the book.

ARC #4

2010-08-09T10:03:00.000-06:00

Room by Emma Donoghue

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I put off reading this book Room: A Novel since I knew what the premise of it is but finally I needed a book to read and so I dove in and now I'm glad I waited so I could thoroughly savor it.

I wavered back and forth on whether or not to give this 4 or 5 stars and then I realized that this book definitely passes my acid test. I didn't read this all at one sitting--it took me a week to get through this book but it's because it was uncomfortable and awkward and painful and poignant and beautifully written.

I found myself thinking about Jack and Ma at random times throughout the week. I thought about what I would do, what Ma should do, what's going to happen when Jack grows up.

I highly recommend this book. It would be a fabulous book club book because of the discussions it would invoke. And I predict that this book will be made into a movie.

Read it and if you disagree, I'd love to talk about it just because that's the kind of book this is. It will create discussions.

View all my reviews >>

Are you ready for 'Mockingjay'?

2010-08-05T14:29:00.002-06:00

Click on this link to see what is being done to prepare for the big August 24th launch.

Marketing 'Mockingjay'

Jessica's "Daily Affirmation"

2010-08-03T10:02:00.000-06:00

We should all start our day this way--go Jessica! I'd like to see where Jessica is in 20 years. Probably happy and healthy.

My daily affirmation: I like my life.

Children's Book Review--Sneaky Sheep

2010-07-29T13:09:00.000-06:00

I'm always on the lookout for colorful and cheery children's books to give as gifts to Phil's grandchildren and to supply my library when they come to visit. The title of this book really caught my eye. I loved the cover and the title--very catching. The illustrations were fun and colorful and the humor is appealing to both kids and adults but I have to admit I didn't like the message.

It seems to me that we should encourage our children to seek out new things and the Sneaky Sheep wanted to do that but Murphy told them to never leave the meadow. Now I understand you want to explain life's dangers to children so they don't do anything stupid but more importantly I think it's our role to encourage children to look outside their comfort zone and try new things (food, friends, games) and visit new places.
This book is perfect for the child who keeps wandering off but it is not a good message for the nervous and shy child.

Love the pictures, didn't care for the message. I give this two stars our of four.

When the Howells get together...

2010-07-20T22:14:00.001-06:00

Cheesy cousins! This is what makes family so much fun.

I post this because I know Daysa never looks at my blog.

SUMMER is finally here

2010-07-07T11:53:00.011-06:00

With the long cool June, rainy and cold Orem Summerfest, and getting ready for Girls Camp, I feel like I haven't really gotten into summer yet but we have been busy. But now, it's here. And I can relax and enjoy it.

We've already enjoyed a great family get together last Sunday to celebrate Steve and Hailey Leavitt's PhD and getting a real job in Chicago, Jason and Shannon's acceptance to Med School in Denver, and Leisy and Kent's visit to Utah.

We had a big crowd: Nick, Donna, Tanner, Shannon, Jason, Janna, K'Annie, and Penny Mills; Elaine, Mark, Ellen, Evan, Aaron, and Justin Jaynes (and Justin's homing pigeon which he released in honor of Independence Day); Rosemary McKee; Kent, Leisy, Zeb, and Ike Miller; Steve, Hailey, Jack, and Griff Leavitt; and of course, Phil, Daysa, and me. I love that back patio! And we so missed Laney and fam! Hopefully we can get to see them soon.

On June 26th we enjoyed Lehi Roundup Days parade and rodeo.

Here's Daysa with her varsity cheer partners (she's in the center).

Girls Camp in Heber Valley was June 28-July 1 and I am SO glad that's over. We camped in tents, had no electricity, cooked over a propane grill, and had to hike to the bathrooms. Let's NOT do that again.

We had such a great visit with Leisy, Kent, and boys. We went to the rodeo, Leisy spent a day at Girls Camp with me, we went to see How To Train Your Dragon.

And then we just did regular family stuff. The time went by WAY too fast.

We are sorry that our German friend, Lisa, was not able to join us this summer. Our thoughts and prayers go out to her and her mother. Lisa, our home is always open to you whenever you can come.

Phil has another grandbaby!

2010-07-02T10:24:00.000-06:00

These are the details thus far. We'll post more as Laney tells us more. From Laney:

Here I am. I started that post earlier this afternoon, and now it's 9 in the evening. I am sitting here in the hospital with a new baby- actually she is not with me, she is in the nursery. We haven't seen her since 5:30 (it's 9) they have to do some blood work and tests and such because she was born with a knot in her cord. They say it probably happened quite a while ago when she was small enough to swim circles in my belly. I think their concern is that she may have missed out on some nutrients or something. Anyway- she is completely healthy and had an apgar score of 9. Here are some pictures: (she doesn't have a name yet. It's narrowed down to Milly or Scout) We'll see what we feel when we get to spend some time with her. We will post again soon with more details and stories! I want to go to sleep.

Here is the knot in the cord. The doctors and nurses thought it was pretty cool. I guess it isn't all that common.

BEA Book #4

2010-06-22T10:12:00.000-06:00

I picked up this book at BEA and got the author's autograph. This is a very sweet story and a story that you're never too old for changes. I enjoyed the metamorphosis of the bristly old English major. Thoroughly enjoyable read.

WANTED!

2010-06-22T10:00:00.000-06:00

To all my former UVU students, Sunday School and YW students, people I worked with on 7Habits Teens and 6 Decisions:

I'm working on a new book project at FC. I need stories of how you were proactive in high school or college. Send me your stories (short: 1-3 paragraphs) and you'll have a chance to have it published in our 7Habits for College Students textbook--and we'll include your name if you like.

You can send the stories to my email (annie.oswald@franklincovey.com) or post them in the comment line here.

Just for submitting a story we'll send you a thank you gift!

BEA ARC #3

2010-06-14T12:40:00.002-06:00

This is a YA thriller novel. It was mildly entertaining and an easy read. I really like the premise of the book but I felt that it moved too slowly and the "unexpected twist" at the end was not all that unexpected and I felt unsatisfied at the end of this book.

Daysa and I discussed it after she finished it and she said she felt the same way. We've now loaned it to Metta. We'll see what she thinks.

I must say though that I like that this book's message is that there are consequences for going over your limit. That's a message that lots of parents should hear (if it's not too late already!).

ARC #2

2010-06-07T09:33:00.005-06:00

The American Painter Emma Dial: A Novel by Samantha Peale

View all my reviews >>

My rating: 2 of 5 stars
Just didn't love it. I can't (and don't want to) relate to Emma. But I do want to broaden my horizons and understand or see how others live and work and so I finished the book.

I can relate to doing what you're passionate about but I don't understand a life dedicated solely to pursuing only one vision to the exclusion of family and security--but that's what makes an artist an artist and I'm not an artist. I'm a regular people--one of the regular people that make the world go round while artists inspire and help us see the world differently.

I don't think I'll be a fan on the HBO series in consideration.

I'm giving the book away. The first one to respond can have it.

First Finished ARC from BEA

2010-06-03T15:12:00.000-06:00

Let's Take the Long Way Home: A Memoir of Friendship by Gail Caldwell

My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This book will be released in August 2010. It's an ARC I picked up at BEA and I promised that I would write a review.

Gail's style of writing invites you in to her inner circle and wraps you in a visual and sensual cocoon. From the title to the end I was emotionally and visually tied to these best friends. This book passes my acid test.

View all my reviews >>

BEA 2010: Kids Galleys to Grab

2010-05-13T15:25:00.002-06:00

I can't wait! Book Expo America is my favorite book fair of all and it's May 24-27 year in NYC. This year will be even more special since I get to spend the weekend with Henry before I hit NYC.

If you see anything (check out the link: BEA 2010: Kids' Galleys to Grab) you want me to grab then post a comment below.

Posted using ShareThis

I'll post pix and reviews when I return.

I'm not really all that but it's nice to hear

2010-05-11T10:33:00.001-06:00

Happy Mother's Day to Me

I only wish I'd had my mother here on Mother's Day so I could tell her how much I love and appreciate all she did for me.
Thanks Leisy for the sentiments. You and your sisters are my heroes.

Sunday, May 9, 2010
ode to my mum from Leisy Oswald Miller

I've always been surrounded by many wonderful moms. I have the most amazing aunts, the greatest grandmas, the superest sister moms, and the best mother in law. But I have to say that it's my mum- the real deal- Nannie Annie- who is my very very favorite. She is the very very best. She is the most amazing. She is super mom. She's better than all the rest of the moms in the world.

And here's the proof! :) Her four amazing, beautiful, and wonderful daughters. We are who she has made us. We are who she has taught us to be. We are great because of her example, her love, and her leadership.
Thanks, mum for your friendship and your "momness". It is unique and perfect. Just take a look at all you've done!!

Telephone Remake

2010-05-05T09:18:00.000-06:00

Enjoy! This made me laugh out loud. Let's support our troops--look at their good work.

A must-read for every teacher and leader

2010-04-27T12:54:00.002-06:00

For everyone who is a teacher--at work, at home, in your community, you must read this book. It is inspiring and uplifting and teaches through example about how you too can be a great leader as a teacher. And you can help us raise funds for breast cancer research.

The Seven Laws of Learning draws from the examples of Nelson Mandela, Friedrich Fröbel, Confucius, Mahatma Gandhi, Eva Perón, Jesus, William Wilberforce, Winston Churchill and others in history and our own day who were great teachers. It identifies principles of effective teaching these leaders used, and shows how those principles can make us better leaders, teachers, and mentors.

From this book, you will learn:

How teaching and leading with illustrative Stories and Metaphors make learning engaging and interesting, and help the message stick.
Why our Perceptions (the way we see things) and those of the people we lead profoundly influence our actions and determine whether or not the results we get will meet our needs over time.
That there is a Natural Way we all learn, and how the most effective teachers and leaders throughout history have used that natural way in their leadership.

These principles form the basis of The Seven Laws of Learning:

Law One – We Are All Born to Learn. People are genetically wired wants to learn, and effective leaders teach and communicate in ways that bring them into learning experiences.
Law Two – You Never Know When Learning Will Occur. Much learning takes place outside the classroom or training venue. Confucius and other great teachers brought nature, history and everyday life into teaching experiences that produced more effective learning.
Law Three – You Learn by Connecting. The most effective teaching comes when leaders connect with those they lead, and also facilitate connections among the group as well.
Law Four – We All Learn Differently. Your personally preferred learning style may not work for everyone. Effective teaching happens when the different learning styles of all involved are considered.
Law Five – Connections Come Through Storytelling. Stories engage everyone in a learning experience. Knowing how to tell great stories is foundational to your ability to engage those you lead.
Law Six – Learning is Both an Emotional and an Intellectual Experience. The emotional attachment to a leader acts like a door to the mind and increases the flow of information.
Law Seven – Learning Can Change Lives. We retain what we learn through a process known as imprinting. Great teachers aid imprinting through repetition and significant emotional experiences.

A portion of the proceeds of every copy of this book sold in May will be donated to support breast cancer research. Please help us sell 1000 copies before May 31, 2010.

Nutty for Nutella

2010-04-19T13:37:00.002-06:00

I LOVE anything with nuts. No, I mean really. You don't understand but I am nuts about nuts. I can't think of a nut I don't like. And I like chocolate--I don't love American chocolate but I do LOVE European chocolate and nuts together. Thus this post about Nutella.

And some of this may be because I'm supposed to be in Europe right now but am not because of a sky full of volcanic ash. (Whoever would have thought that someday I would be saying that?) But back to chocolate and nuts--when I go to Europe I load up on real chocolate with hazelnuts (my favorites).

And there seems to be a sudden craze about Nutella (of which both my twins seem to be participating in). If you've never tried Nutella you've got to and then join the fan club.

Check out the Nutella site and check back here for my Nutella recipe. I'm going home tonight to experiment.

Favorite Dinner Recipe

2010-04-13T10:45:00.000-06:00

Ingredients

4 boneless skinless chicken breast halves (4 ounces each)
1 tablespoon canola oil
1 tablespoon butter
1 can (15-1/4 ounces) sliced peaches, undrained
1/2 cup packed brown sugar (I used 1/4 cup)
1/2 cup orange juice
1 envelope onion soup mix
Hot cooked rice, optional

Directions

In a large skillet over medium heat, brown chicken in oil and butter; remove and keep warm. Stir in the peaches with juice, brown sugar, orange juice and soup mix to the skillet. Bring to a boil; cook and stir for 2 minutes. Reduce heat; return chicken to the pan.
Simmer, uncovered, for 15-20 minutes or until a thermometer reads 170°. Serve over rice if desired. Yield: 4 servings.

<p>&amp;amp;lt;iframe src="http://rcm.amazon.com/e/cm?t=ann085-20&amp;amp;amp;amp;o=1&amp;amp;amp;amp;p=8&amp;amp;amp;amp;l=bpl&amp;amp;amp;amp;asins=B00006KYZ9&amp;amp;amp;amp;fc1=000000&amp;amp;amp;amp;IS2=1&amp;amp;amp;amp;lt1=_blank&amp;amp;amp;amp;m=amazon&amp;amp;amp;amp;lc1=0000FF&amp;amp;amp;amp;bc1=000000&amp;amp;amp;amp;bg1=FFFFFF&amp;amp;amp;amp;f=ifr" style="padding-top: 5px; width: 131px; height: 245px; padding-right: 10px;" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" align="left" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"&amp;amp;gt;</p>

Peachy Chicken published in Taste of Home April/May 2005, p7

BLATANT PLUG ALERT! FranklinCovey IPhone App

2010-04-12T15:14:00.000-06:00

Here's an opportunity for you to try out a new FranklinCovey tool: the Great Career App.

It's based on Covey's new book, Great Work Great Career. The book changed how I look at my job and my life's mission and how I tie it all together.

On April 13 it's only $2.99.

And don't forget to plug me in as a member of your community. I'd love your feedback on the book and the app!

My friend's new book

2010-03-26T11:20:00.000-06:00

I'm blatantly promoting my friend's new book "My Orange Duffel Bag." If you've got an older teen this is a great book to help them realize their dreams and goals. From a parent's perspective I like this book because it helps my own 15 year old understand that her life (and her parents) is pretty darn good compared to the life Sam had growing up.

I highly recommend this book. It's a great book too for all teens but it's a homerun for the teen who isn't a reader. The book is graphically beautiful. Your teen will want to make this their own--it's almost a journaling experience.

Anyway, check it out

Book Description:
In this graphic mini-memoir combined with transformational self-help, Sam Bracken shares his harrowing story of growing up in a family best described as a whacked-out version of The Brady Bunch.
Despite being abandoned at age 15 and suffering unspeakable abuse, Sam triumphed over the odds and offers a message of hope, love and forgiveness.

See Sam's interview on

Monetizing my blog

2010-03-25T14:31:00.000-06:00

I am no expert but everybody seems to be doing it so here goes. Plug in a product name and you'll be linked directly to Amazon. I am a big time Amazon user and it's almost as indispensable to me as Google. I use Amazon mostly for books and audios but I'm moving my life to the Frugal Zone what with Obama-care looming in our future. (Now you know my politics but I can't help feeling like we're going to hell in a handbasket and we're going there fast.)

Oh and another kick I'm on. I experimented with my Mrs. Fields cookie recipe last night and substitued half of the butter with blueberry and spinach puree, added a scoop of flax, and mix my flour with half whole wheat and half white. I also made only a half recipe.

MRS. FIELDS CHOCOLATE CHIP COOKIES

2 c. butter (half blueberry/spinach puree)
2 c. brown sugar
2 c. white sugar
4 eggs
1 tbsp. vanilla
3 c. oat bran (I used oatmeal)
5 c. flour (less 1 scoop and I added 1 scoop ground flax)
1 tsp. salt
1 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. baking powder
Add last: 2 (12 oz.) pkg. milk chocolate chips

Cream first 5 ingredients until fluffy. Add remaining ingredients. Mix until all ingredients are blended. Bake at 400 degrees for 6-12 minutes. Do not overbake.

Phil and Daysa were gone last night so I tested them on the neighbor kids and I got RAVE reviews. They all said they loved them and I should make more. Try it and tell me what you think.

P.S. The cookies do have a green tint to them.

March 5, 2010 THE GOOD, THE BAD. AND THE UGLY

2010-03-06T06:36:00.006-07:00

The Good: Where I Live

This is looking out my window as I sit at the computer.

The Bad: Yesterday's Weather

Backyard shot

The Ugly: Driving to Work in it

Out the front door

Trip to Asia

2010-02-27T07:53:00.012-07:00

I'm finally getting around to publishing a few pictures from my trip to Taipei, Tokyo, and Seoul. It was a very good business trip and I love the people of Asia.

This is looking out my room window in Taipei. That is the One Oh One building (once the tallest building in the world).

Outside the LDS chapel in Tokyo.

Thank you Martini family for taking me to church with you and going out of your way to show me the Tokyo Temple.

Folowing are a couple of pictures of the historic Korean Palace grounds in the center of Seoul. Sorry, I don't remember the name. It was VERY cold in Seoul and and it was hard to take pictures because my hands were so cold but I think I got a few good ones.

Below: This is where we had our business meeting. This is very typical to sit on the floor (and remember you take your shoes off so don't have holes in your stockings like I did) and there is always tea and cookies.

Here I am in the courtyard of the publishing house Gimm-Young. This is my good friend Youjeong.

It was a wonderful trip. Thank you to my hosts Dr. Ken Gimm and his lovely wife. I definitely want to return (but not in January).

NO! Not mine.

2010-02-20T20:26:00.003-07:00

Phil's fourth grandbaby is on its way. I'm putting bets on a thumb-sucking girl. Laney and Taylor and Henry are expecting an addition to their family in mid-summer. My vote for a name is Ingeborge unless she's born on July 4th then I think she should be named Liberty or Honoria. What do you think?

Speaking of Valentines

2010-02-18T12:18:00.052-07:00

This year it was a little harder to go all out for my Valentine. We had guests all week and Valentines fell on a Sunday so I had to get a bit more creative (a different kind of creative because I've been REALLY creative on Valentines in the past). Anyway, this year I decided to do a 50 Reasons I Love Philip and post them all over the house in strategic places--there are some he still hasn't found. Daysa was mortified, Dave and Michelle and their family smiled and said they thought it was sweet. But for those of you who couldn't be here, I've decided to post my

Reasons Why I Love Philip

I love Philip because he’s hot.

I love Philip because he’s a good provider.

I love Philip because he’s witty and funny and charming.

I love Philip because he is romantic.

I love Philip because he served a mission and still married me
even after three Dear Johns.

I love Philip because he’s patriotic and he votes (and usually the way I want him to).

I love Philip because he goes to church.

I love Philip because he’s smart.

I love Philip because he eats what I cook (and never complains).

I love Philip because he’s good to his parents.

I love Philip because he honors his priesthood.

I love Philip because he’s generous.

I love Philip because he’s a can fix the computer (and the car, and the broken pipes, and…).

I love Philip because he has a hairy chest.

I love Philip because he gives good back rubs.

I love Philip because he’s good with his hands.

I love Philip because he’s never complained about being
surrounded by his girls.

I love Philip because he subscribes to the Sunday paper and Readers Digest for me.

I love Philip because he has adorable grandchildren.

I love Philip because we have fun traveling together.

I love Philip because he worries about me when I travel without him.

I love Philip because he plays games with me (oh, and 5 Crowns too).

I love Philip because he is musically talented.

I love Philip because he makes the bed.

I love Philip because he likes to shop for clothing for me.

I love Philip because he always puts the toilet seat down (and always has).

I love Philip because he lets me put my cold hands and feet on him.

I love Philip because he welcomes in all the people I invite home.

I love Philip because he loves Disney.

I love Philip because he encourages my hobbies.

I love Philip because he takes care of me when I’m sick (and cranky).

I love Philip because he’s a true boy scout—always prepared.

I love Philip because he pays the bills.

I love Philip because he manages the budget.

I love Philip because he helps me manage my discretionary fund.

I love Philip because he does the taxes.

I love Philip because every time I travel overseas he helps me figure out which electrical plugs to use.

I love Philip because he is a good father of girls.

I love Philip because he encourages me to be healthy.

I love Philip because when I’m away in the evening he’ll watch my tv show for me and tell me what happened.

I love Philip because he rarely watches Sunday football.

I love Philip because he roots for BYU (when they’re not playing the Utes).

I love Philip because he takes me to the movies I want to see.

I love Philip because when the kids or I are in a bind, he comes to our rescue.

I love Philip because he goes to all my family’s events. I love Philip because he goes to all his family’s events.

I love Philip because he can help the kids with math and science.

I love Philip because he is a good story teller.

I love Philip because HE LOVES ME. Happy Valentine’s Day.

Valentines Bo-kay

2010-02-16T18:59:00.002-07:00

Because my baby NEVER reads my blog, I thought I'd post this for those of you who do read my blog. Here's a picture of her first Valentines bouquet from a boy. She says
"he's stupid, boys are stupid" but she did have a smile on her face and made us promise we would not tell a single sister (well that's easy--none of her sisters are single).

In addition to this we had a great Valentines Day and weekend--thanks Dave and Michelle and family for coming to visit--we're going to miss Sawyer. Kristen please send pix.

The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly

2010-01-15T14:45:00.004-07:00

I keep looking for ways to keep me engaged with blogging and for ways to entertain or educate the reader. So what do I have to offer?

So here's my new idea. I'm going to blog on The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly.

The Good: my husband's birthday today. He's fabulous (and he's hot) but I think I've told you that before.

The Bad: the Roosevelt Hotel in NYC. It's a lovely older hotel (with very reasonable prices for NYC). But I was on the street side of the hotel on the 14th floor and you would have thought that I was on the ground floor right next to the uber-trash-masher. I am certain there was NO sealing around the windows. I was awake ALL night long. There's nothing worse than knowing you have to be up in a few minutes and you have to be fresh and alert for your meetings with key players at publishing companies.

Have you ever had an experience like this?

The Ugly:

The earthquake in Haiti. What a horrific experience for them. I don't know anyone there but when I see images and news reports I can only imagine that they must feel like they're in a nightmare and can't wake up. Please find a way to help--I'll donate clothing and shoes to DI.

Attitude of Gratitude--I'm grateful for good health

2009-12-11T09:17:00.002-07:00

This is a blog post from my daughter. If you'd like to help, send me your email address (annie.oswald@gmail.com) and I'll pass along the address to you too. Merry Christmas.

From Leisy:

I couldn't think of a better way to reach more people to ask this favor. We have some friends here in Toledo whose eight year old son was diagnosed this week with an extremely rare form of cancer. The prognosis is not good and the family just wants to enjoy the last bit of time they have together. The little boy LOVES mail and Christmas. His grandmother is also a close friend and when I asked her what we could do- she said we could send he and his brother mail of any sort. I know he'd love to get mail from places besides Toledo so I thought I'd ask friends to send him some. Christmas cards or letters or anything would be wonderful. He loves spongebob, cooking, and all other normal eight year old stuff.

I don't want to post their names and addresses on my blog- so if you'd send me an e-mail (leisyoswald@hotmail.com), or comment with your e-mail address, I can send you one with the information! Thanks so much!

Attitude of Gratitude: I'm grateful for the Christmas Season

2009-12-10T08:56:00.001-07:00

Amazing Grace Techno - Computer Controlled Christmas Lights from Richard Holdman on Vimeo.

Attitude of Gratitude Day ?

2009-12-03T19:01:00.006-07:00

I'm behind---again. But today I am grateful for extended family. I feel truly blessed to belong to a loving and supportive family.

We (Phil, Daysa, Rosemary and I) went to Boise, Idaho for Thanksgiving. David and Michelle hosted the event (meaning they found the location and provided the turkey and potatoes--along with lots of other stuff).

It was fun to see Ben and Chantal and new baby Jet and Kristen and Matt and new baby Sawyer.

In addition Howells, Michelle's parents and sister and husband and son were there too.

Here we are lining up for the yummy yummy food. I especially liked the moist turkey, Linda's yams, and my stuffing (made with cornbread, pecans, apples, and craisins).

I'm pretty sure Bryson ate too much. I don't know how many desserts there were (pumpkin, pecan, chocolate, peanut butter, two kinds of apple, oatmeal cake, ice cream) but it was ALL gone when we left.

And lastly, I'm really grateful that I am part of a family of game players. Thanks everybody for humoring me (Matt, Bobby, Ben, Bridger, and Chele)!

I thought you might be interested...

2009-12-03T12:21:00.002-07:00

By Diane Roback -- Publishers Weekly, 12/3/2009 11:40:00 AM

Hunger Games fans have just eight more months to wait: the as yet untitled third and final book in Suzanne Collins’s dystopian fantasy trilogy will be released in English worldwide on August 24, 2010.

Attitude of Gratitude Day 6

2009-11-25T09:09:00.008-07:00

I love the mountains and deserts of Utah.

Mt. Timp from our neighborhood (Daysa photo)

Mt. Timpanogos taken from a helicopter ride.

Phil at Delicate Arch

Sunset from my back porch.

Attitude of Gratitude Day 5

2009-11-23T13:37:00.003-07:00

Today I'm grateful for my dream job. I love what I do. I love the people I work with. I love the travel. I love the people I meet and the places I go. I love the books. I love our corporate mission.

I know you think I'm nuts but it took me a long time to get here. And yes, there are days I hate the job, the problems, the politics, etc. etc. but mostly it's worth all the hassle.

So, since you're reading this, I've been part of the team that is creating, writing, reviewing, marketing and now-releasing a brand new book called Great Work, Great Career. The book comes out in December and I really really like it. I haven't loved every book we release but this one I do. This book reminded me of why I do what I do and how I can do it better.

Triple gratitude today

2009-11-21T17:35:00.008-07:00

Today I'm thankful for my husband's daughters' children: Zeb, Henry, and Friedrick (Ike)---OK, OK, they're my grandchildren too.

But they are A-dorable! They are healthy and happy and smart. Their parents are so much better at this than I was. I'm so proud of them. I miss these boys lots but I must admit I love that they live far away. It makes the stories more fun, the adventures more adventuresome, and absence does make the heart grow fonder.

Attitude of Gratitude Day 2

2009-11-19T16:07:00.005-07:00

Today I'm thankful for an incredibly intelligent, talented, good looking, and occasionally obsessive husband. I'm REALLY glad that we still have that zing in our relationship--he still knows how to get my blood racing.

Recently someone commented to me that they were amazed at how we kept our relationship alive. I am too but it's working. He's the best thing that ever happened to me.
As Phil would say "Yeah, baby, that's what I'm talking about."

The Attitude of Gratitude

2009-11-18T09:13:00.002-07:00

I'm back and recommitted to keeping up on my blog. It's November and time to think about all that I'm grateful. I'm going to post something here every day through the end of the year.

I'm thankful for my four beautiful, intelligent, and kind daughters--they are my heroes.

What are you thankful for?

And still more bridals...

2009-07-26T07:22:00.005-06:00

Metta's bridal pix

2009-07-25T11:01:00.006-06:00

These are just a few of Metta's bridal photos. I'd be interested in which one you like the best.

These pictures were taken at Thanksgiving Point in Lehi. It was a very hot evening and we were worried that it wouldn't be a good photo shoot. As you can see these pictures are stunning.

The big day is August 29.

More Trip Pix!

2009-07-03T11:23:00.014-06:00

View from the Coliseum in Rome.

Ahh, Florence! It was beautiful. Here we are at the Duomo and then at Ponte Vecchio. It was all beautiful. I would love to go back and spend more time in Firenza!

A most pleasant surpise was the Field of Miraces and the Leaning Tower or Pisa. Pisa was between the port and Florence. We decided we would see Pisa only if we had time--we did, and it was well worth the extra taxi fare.

Gargoyles (one of my favorite things about Europe are gargoyles) on the Leaning Tower of Pisa.

Arch d'Triomphe and Notre Dame Cathedral in the rain.

Last day of holiday was a rainy afternoon and evening in Paris. When we got to the Eiffel Tower the sun came out and it was stunning. We ate at a little Parisian restaurant down this street and sat by the window and watched the people.

I have TONS more pix. You only have to ask.

Mediterranean Cruise

2009-06-20T08:36:00.010-06:00

For all of you who have asked, and even if you haven't asked, here are some pix of our cruise

We boarded the ship in Barcelona on May 31, June 1 we were at sea all day.

June 2, we arrived in Malta in the morning and went ashore.

We took a boat tour of the harbors of Malta.

That night we cruised to Naples and the next day we did a tour of Pompeii. That is Mt. Vesuvius you can see through the doorway.

Archaeologists continue to excavate and uncover bodies preserved in ash.

We returned to the ship and cruised that night and awoke to a new day in Rome. This was our marathon day! We took a 90 minute train into Rome and hurried to the Vatican Museum before the lines got too large (sorry but we couldn't take pictures of the famous Sistine Chapel!). Then over to a line to get into St. Peter's Basilica, the largest cathedral in the world.

Outdoors to the taxi stand and we took a cab to the Pantheon, over to Trevi Fountain (on Daysa's list of must sees),

a slice of pizza on a side street in a local eatery, walked to Capital Hill, the Forum,

and lastly to the Coliseum. Whew! What a day! The pictures are in order of the day.

It was on a train to Rome where we ran into some missionaries. It was like seeing someone from home.

And I'll post more later with the rest of the trip. I've spent enough time on this today. I've GOTTA get my house cleaned after a week at Girls Camp.

Birthday Boys

2009-06-11T06:36:00.004-06:00

June 1 was Zebby's 2nd birthday and June 6 was Henry P's 1st birthday.

I missed both but I wanted to give a shout out to my two favorite little boys. Love you both and love your parents.

A Week in Toledo

2009-02-09T20:33:00.007-07:00

So last Tuesday, February 3, Phil and I flew off to balmy (ha ha) Toledo, OH to help Leisy with baby #2. We returned on Sunday, February 8. We hated to leave Zeb, Ike, Leisy, Kent, Henry, Taylor and Laney but poor Daysa needed her parents.

Go to Leisy's blog (kentandleisy.blogspot.com)to read the whole gory story including pictures of the placenta (gross!).

Rock on Henry P!

2009-01-22T15:23:00.003-07:00

HUNGER GAMES 2

2009-01-22T15:15:00.003-07:00

From Publishers Weekly's Children's Bookshelf:

When readers of the bestselling fantasy novel The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins read the last page, many of them will be eager to know, “But what happens next??” Unfortunately, we can’t tell you yet, but we can show you, for the very first time anywhere, the cover for the sequel, Catching Fire. Scholastic is publishing the book on September 8 with a 250,000-copy first printing (Scholastic Audio Books will release a simultaneous audio edition).

The Hunger Games came out last September, after much pre-pub buzz; it has 225,000 copies in print, with 26 foreign editions to date. Collins is currently at work writing the third and final volume in the trilogy, tentatively scheduled for 2010.
David Levithan, executive editorial director at Scholastic, says that the manuscript for Catching Fire is available in-house on a “need to read” basis only. “It’s the most secrecy I’ve had about any project I’ve ever worked on.”

Fans in the book industry can have their first chance to find out those surprises at the end of May—Scholastic will be giving out ARCs of Catching Fire at BEA in New York City.

The end of life as we know it....

2008-11-02T06:44:00.002-07:00

The ending was abrupt: Workers for the company, which shifted its baking and distribution operations to plants in Ohio and Canada in 2006, told workers Friday that operations would cease and cookies would no longer be made as of Monday.

The company cited rising prices for raw materials and fuel, and on Monday filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the District of Delaware.

The company that made Mother's cookies at the end was the Archway & Mother's Cake and Cookie Co. of Battle Creek, Mich. It was owned by Catterton Partners, a private-equity firm in Greenwich, Conn., which in 2005 purchased it from an Italian firm, Parmalat Finanziaria, which was plagued by scandals at home.

In 2006, Mother's Cake & Cookie Co. was uprooted from its plant on 81st Avenue in Oakland and relocated. About 230 employees lost their jobs.

According to industry lore, the company was founded in 1914 by a newspaper vendor, N.M. Wheatley, as a one-person shop. It expanded and moved to the 81st Avenue location in 1949.

Mother's later had a series of corporate owners: a Belgian company, Artal B.V., bought it in 1991; it was owned by Specialty Foods Corp. of Illinois in the late 1990s; in 2000, Specialty sold Mother's and Archway Cookies to Parmalat, which in turn sold the combined business to Catterton for an undisclosed sum.

Catterton said in a statement it "took a number of actions to remedy" the company's financial crisis, "but these actions were not sufficient to overcome the losses and return Mother's Cake & Cookie Co. and Archway Cookies LLC to profitability."

One of those efforts was to seek financing. "But, as you know, the credit environment is very difficult now," said Meaghan Repko, a spokeswoman for the owners, in New York.

"The owners came in to get rid of us, to chew us up and spit us out," he said, alleging their intent was to gain a profit by selling assets and neglecting service of trucks and other expenses.

"This is part of the economic crunch, with the CEOs taking the money out and not putting more money into the company," said Makely. "I'm too old to get a driving job. Who would hire me?"

Quirky Things

2008-10-02T15:04:00.003-06:00

Oh good grief. My daughter Leisy tagged me on this. I'm supposed to tell you a few quirky things about me. And honestly, I don't think any of these are quirky but some people do tell me they're odd. So, you're welcome to add your own two cents worth about me (as long as you're nice).
1. I don't like to eat my own cooking. My family complains that they worry I am poisoning them. We sit down for dinner and they're eating my casseroles or homemade soups or whatever and I'm eating salad or cereal.
2. I don't like babies. Never have, never will. I enjoy teenagers lots more than babies. I never felt baby hungry or felt that my arms needed to hold and rock a baby. My own were fine but they were lots more fun when they grew up.
3. I can't sit still. My family does accuse me of being obsessive compulsive about it. I polish the countertops while we're around the island in the kitchen, I pull the neighbor's weeds if we're out side visiting, I'll pick up at other people's homes (just ask my sisters--they hate it), or I'll keep moving to exercise.
4. Speaking of exercise, I'm addicted to walking. I love walking. I do at least 3 miles a day but often 6+ miles. I love to walk early in the morning when it's still dark.
5. Lastly, I love even numbers and hate odd numbers. I can't stand the volume on the tv or radio to be on an odd number. If I can, I'll change a hotel room to an even number if it's odd. I'll finish reading on an even page number. I love the ease of even numbers. They're more friendly.

So, maybe I'm missing something but those aren't really quirky and I can't think of anything else. Can you?

Welcome to Fall!

2008-10-01T14:02:00.003-06:00

Zeb and the giant pumpkin patch! Wouldn't that make a darling children's book?

Welcome to fall--my favorite time of year. This weekend the weather is supposed to become cooler and crisper. I'm looking forward to it! Enjoy.

Liberec, Czech Republic

2008-09-30T11:20:00.007-06:00

This is an old church in the hills above Liberec in a community called Jested. I met the sweetest old man at the top of the tram line who told me in his broken English about the history of Liberec.

I wandered around the church and dicovered this beautiful leaded glass window. It's hard to see but if you enlarge the photo you can see it. This church was surrounded by apple trees and hanging laundry.

And lastly, the main town square had this McDonalds in a beautiful old building. None of the McDonalds employees spoke English so I just pointed at the pictures and smiled.

2008-09-28T21:13:00.013-06:00

Off the balcony off our hotel room and this was THE nicest Best Western we have ever seen!

This is St. Vitus Cathedral in Prague. The sun was at a perfect angle. Isn't this stunning? It was late afternoon, on a perfect day. I just wandered around with my mouth gaping.

St Vitus Cathedral

From our hotel room window, this is the art museum in the background. I love the red tile roofs.

St. Vitus Cathedral from the outside.

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7 Habits of Happy Kids

2008-09-24T13:59:00.007-06:00

This is what I've been working on for the past year. Check it out and go buy the book--you can get it on Amazon.com. Also, go check out www.seancovey.com and see the other cool stuff we're doing. There's a short video clip of the author promoting the book. I set this event up and Metta was there to help me. I was in NYC last week for the launch of this book and it was great fun!

I would love your feedback--good and bad--and any new story ideas.

2008-08-25T11:55:00.000-06:00

My son-in-law's Medical Mission to Nicaragua

On one of the days in Nicaragua we visited the landfill... the dump. People live there. It was disgusting really; the smell was nauseating, the flies were suffocating, and the vultures were circling. Driving in, we were all unprepared for what we saw. Cattle were grazing in the heaps of garbage and people were following to pick up anything of value.

We began handing out packets of food that we assembled. Rice and beans and other essentials. We then handed out plates of food. It was amazing to see how grateful these people were for a single plate of food. It was also terrible to see how desperate they became when the food began to run out. We had to place a number of big guys at the front of the line to prevent people from storming the tables of food. The hardest thing was telling the kids that they couldn't have more food because we wouldn't have enough for everyone.

Right now my life is wonderful, but if there comes a day when I'm feeling down or feel like my life is pretty tough, I'll think back to this experience. I could be living in a landfill eating garbage everyday - I am so lucky and totally take my perfect life for granted.

My First 5K!

2008-06-30T11:14:00.003-06:00

Lehi Roundup 5K Run/Walk.

June 28, 2008.

TEAM OSWALD

(Back row: me, Metta, Debbie. Front row: Taylor, Laney, Leisy, Kent

Watch for this one!

2008-06-18T12:05:00.004-06:00

Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins. Futuristic mortal combat reality show based on 24 teens chosen via lottery to represent their districts.

I loved it and Daysa loved it. This is one of those books that I read and I said "OK, this will be big." Both Daysa and I are upset that we have to wait years now for the second one. This is a Young Adult book --watch for it to be released October 2008.

Henry Philip Hawes

2008-06-09T11:53:00.002-06:00

Laney and Taylor had little Henry on Friday the 6th. Here's the story from Laney:

He came a little earlier than I had hoped, I missed two weddings this weekend (sorry Whitney and Bethany!) but I imagine it was all worth it. I woke up friday morning and headed off to the gym for kickboxing, i felt wonderful and class was going just fine until about six fifteen when I round house kicked to the left, and as I came down, I felt a warm wet sensation in my shorts. My first thought was, "o my goodness, I just peed my pants." I then realized that the liquid kept coming, so I tore off to the bathroom (all along the way, the water just kept coming) and realized I was soaking wet. Once in the bathroom, I concluded that I had probably not in fact peed my pants, but my water had broken, seeing as how it wasn't yellow and it just kept coming and coming!

I waited a bit and headed back to class to get my keys, jacket, and waterbottle where it was obvious to all (by my soaking wet shorts, and the puddle I had made) that I wasn't going to be finishing class. My teacher got excited and the class all cheered me off as a friend of mine (liliana, who is also nine months pregnant) walked me to the parking lot and wished me luck. It was all kind of exciting and scary- mostly because I realized I was going to have a baby and there was nothing I could do about it.

I put my sweathshirt on the car seat so I wouldn't leak too much in the car and I called Leisy to ask her what to do- she just laughed and said, I guess you should go to the hospital. I drove home and woke Taylor up and we showered, Taylor did our dishes from the night before and packed a hospital bag (of course we hadn't packed one yet) while I got ready to go (I figured since I wasn't having any contractions or anything, I might as well take the time to do my make-up and hair for the day). We then went to breakfast, ran a few errands, and set off for the hospital.

When we arrived at the hospital, I don't think they believed that I was ready to have a baby, but they did the tests and realized I was in fact ready to have a baby. They started pitocin a few hours later and voila, by six thirty pm, we had a baby boy. All I have to say about the whole labor and contraction thing is, thank heavens for the epidural! I thought maybe I could do it without (and I am sure I could have) but after feeling those contractions and all that pain, I don't know why I would ever want to! Everything was so much easier and better with the epidural. Unfortunately, the epidural didn't quite take as well as it should have, and a few times I thought I was going to die (really, I couldn't believe how badly it hurt), but the Anesthesiologist was always nearby, and he was kind enough to return and give me more medicine. Thank heaven for pain killers! Labor is so much better when you can't feel anything, and you can just chat with the doctor and nurses between pushes.

Anyway, here is our little bugaboo, he doesn't really fit in his car seat, and he is still a little squishy, but we quite like him and we have decided to keep him. We will post more pictures of the little guy soon. Thanks for all your well wishes!

The Magic of Ordinary Days

2008-05-23T10:11:00.003-06:00

This is a very tender and sweet novel which takes place during WWII. Livvy is shipped off to marry a Colorado plains farmer, a man she has never met. Which in turn leads to her friendship of two Japanese girls and what she learns about life, herself, and trust.

I thoroughly enjoyed the history, the emotion, the sweetness of this book. I give it 3 3/4 stars. This is a pleasant read. And i just discovered that it has been made into a Hallmark movie. So if you don't want to read it, go check out the dvd.

Happy Mother's Day to My Mother-In-Law

2008-05-15T17:08:00.003-06:00

Forget all those bad mother-in-law jokes. I have a great mother-in-law! Happy Mother's Day (a bit belated) to Grandma Carol. Thanks for all you do for us. And thanks for passing along great genes--see adorable and brilliant grandchildren (l to r Metta, Laney, Daysa).

Michael Connelly books

2008-05-15T16:47:00.002-06:00

I've discovered a new author I really like. This guy ranks up there with Robert Parker. I don't know how I missed this author because he's been writing for a long time. Anyway I got The Brass Verdict as an ARC (advance reading copy) from the publisher. Sorry fellow readers, this won't be released until October 2008 but you can email me for my copy---first come first serve.

After I read The Brass Verdict I went looking for Connelly at the library and found Echo Park. I highly recommend both books. I give them both 3 2/3 stars!

Enjoy and let me know what you think.

4 Stars out of 4

2008-05-01T10:22:00.002-06:00

This is such a cool book. I LOVE it. I've convinced everyone at work to go out and buy this and then carry it with them. I refer to it often! And I'm trying hard to get the 8 Foods You Should Eat Every Day in to my diet.

I got my copy at Costco for $11.00. Definitely four stars for valuable information, great pictures, well laid out format, and easy to carry.

2008-04-24T10:56:00.003-06:00

I told you I love Robert Parker and I finished this one last night. This is one of his Spenser stories--he's my favorite of the Parker's three protagonists: Spenser, Jesse Stone, and Sunny Randall.

This book was only moderately OK. Definitely not one of his better stories. If you love Parker you have to read it so you can say you've read them all, but if you've never read Parker, don't start with this one.

I just got three new ARC (advance reading copies) from a publisher yesterday. Hopefully I can review one of them by Monday! Happy reading this weekend.

Books--Glorious Books!

2008-04-21T15:09:00.003-06:00

So, I’m going to blog about what I love (besides my family). I love books. I love to read. I love to talk about books. I love it when you strike up a conversation with a stranger and the talk turns to books. What have you read lately? What's your absolute favorite? Sometimes I’ll be sitting on a plane and crying over a book and you’ll know another true book lover by the knowing look in their eye or the nod of understanding.

Some of my favorite childhood memories have to do with books. In the summer I would bike ride several miles to the library. Not many people my age, including my own brothers and sisters, wanted to be at the library in the summer. In the dim and cool bowels of the library I could feel the books. They would quiver as I walked up and down the aisles running my fingers along the spines and I could hear them calling "read me, read me." There is something about a library that has such a comforting feel and smell. I feel nostalgic now when I visit our little local library and I’m thrilled that my daughter takes her young son to the library.

So, jump in. Offer your comments, tell me what you love and don’t love. And especially tell me if you disagree with my reviews.

MESSAGE FROM LEISY

2008-03-19T19:21:00.002-06:00

goodbye and farewell

We bid Laney and Taylor farewell this evening as they boarded the "megabus" to Chicago! They were only here for the weekend, but it was splendid. Today church was quite a riot. One girl in the ward told me that she saw me (actually Laney) and leaned over to her husband exclaiming, "Leisy is pregnant and really pregnant at that! how did we not notice it before?!". I thought it was hystercial! It didn't help that we wore similar outfits.
My primary kids LOVED it. One told her mom that it was "creepy"! Kids are so dang funny.
Besides the art museum and Pasta Fina, we just kinda hung out. I am posting this picture and laney will probably KILL me, but I just can't help it. We had quite a few giggle fits today. Laney told her Latvia appendectomy story at dinner (the sister missionaries were over and had requested it) and it just never gets old or unfunny. The worst of the giggle fits was in the car while we were waiting for the Megabus to arrive. This is where the picture comes in. We started giggling about giggle fits and then really got out of control when Laney started losing bladder control. She is almost 7 months pregnant and is somewhat excused, but it was insanely funny. We were all crying. The people in the car next to us must have had quite the show watching us all make fools of ourselves. Sisters are good for that (laughing and making you look foolish).
The week has been stellar, but we are ready to have our house back to ourselves! Zeb experienced EXTREME sensory overload and is completely off the semi-schedule he had. Let's hope he can make a speedy and full recovery so that Kent and I can get back to sleeping :)

It's no secret!

2008-03-09T08:40:00.004-06:00

It's no secret and I would love to tell you more. If you have any questions, about anything, please feel free to ask me.

Check out this site:

Mormon.org
Basic Doctrines

Weekend in Idaho

2008-02-21T20:25:00.005-07:00

I desperately needed to get out of town so we called Dave and asked if we could invite ourselves up to Boise.

The food was great despite the look on Daysa's face.

We headed up to Idaho City above Boise to go
sledding and tubing. In the picture:Penny, Sarah, Bob,
K'annie, Bridger, me on the tube, Daysa, Dave,
and Michelle. (Phil is taking the picture.)

This was so much fun.

Hiking in the deep snow. Michelle and David bringing up the rear, Phil taking pictures.

2008-02-21T20:16:00.004-07:00

My baby Daysa on the day of the big haircut! Isn't that hair gorgeous? But it was such a hassle. It is still in a baggie in my office. I WILL send it to locks of love if I can just part with it.

Do you think she looks more like Goldilocks or Rapunzel?

2008-02-20T19:32:00.004-07:00

OK already! I know I've been terribly remiss in keeping up with the blog but I'm back! Here is my cute Zebber and his Valentine love bug which his mummy reports he loves (but I'm sure he only loves it because it's from Nannie Annie).

Phil and Daysa are off to their Wednesday night church activities and I have the house to myself---ahhhh peace and quiet and now I can catch up on this blog, bake some cookies for my neighbor who taught my lesson on Sunday while we were out of town, go to the gym, work on my next lesson, send thank you notes to the Boise family who put us up and entertained us over the weekend, send a check to Bryson to pay for the Wii we bought from him, finish the laundry, go outside and see if I can see the lunar eclipse, and then maybe I'll watch some tv. Ha! Ha! And so goes the life of a fulltime working mom and wife.

When I get the weekend pictures posted I'll tell you about our weekend get-away to Boise. For now I do need to finish the laundry, bake cookies, and write thank you notes.

Add your comments please. I'd love to hear from you.

2007-12-18T05:29:00.001-07:00

It's Nannie Annie Day!

Thanks Zeb, Leisy, and Kent. See you in a few hours! Merry Christmas everyone and remember the reason for the season.

The illumination!!!!!

2007-10-30T20:50:00.001-06:00

So this is part of our annual Halloween tradition. Carve jack-o-lanterns on the Monday night before Halloween and then take them out on the porch to show them off. These are all pumpkins from my garden this year! I am proud of myself. Next year I'm going to work on giant pumpkins--Daysa tells me I'm a geek but wait until she sees the size of pumpkins I'm going to grow.

We love Halloween! And we really get into it. Sunday I did the Sunday before Halloween dinner--stew in a pumpkin and everything else Halloween and Harvest related. I really outdid myself this year. I tried a new stew recipe and Phil says it was the best ever "BY A LONG WAYS!"Just what exactly does that mean? I'll post the recipe later but it was stew cooked in apple cider.

The rest of the menu included orange colored lemonade, eyeballs, chunks of giant's earwax, cornbread baked with baby toes, and curdled apple pudding cake--yum yum. Laney, Taylor, Ashley Christly, and Hailey Oswald all joined us.

gotta go answer the door--TRICK OR TREATERS ARE HERE

I can't help myself

2007-10-15T19:29:00.001-06:00

He's just so darn cute!

Sounds Familiar

2007-10-07T18:44:00.001-06:00

I do belive that I have said all this before...and continue to say it over and over again.

So, my daughter and Dick Cheney....

2007-10-06T21:28:00.001-06:00

I finally found the time to sit down and blog! Hooray. Last friday was the big day with Vice President Cheney, and it was an incredible experience. I learned that when people think you work for the whitehouse and you have the secret service pin, and the radio in your ear, with that little thing you hold in your hand and talk into, people will do almost anything you want. We got the event ready, i did everything from setting up the flags behind the stage, and making sure the hotel staff set up the chairs and stage correctly to buying the vice president his sprite zero (he only drinks sprite zero and decaff coffee). So Ibought the vice president's soda, i promised leisy i would post a picture of it, so here it is, in my car!

After buying the soda, we got ready for the Vice President's arrival,we worked a lot with the secret service, and my job was to get all the people ready who were greeting the vice president, and they were some heavy hitters, one of them was the reverend Billy Graham's Daughter, another woman was the mother of the ceo of Blackwater security (the company all over the news right now) and some other fancy schmancy people. Anyway, I lined them all up and gave them instructions, then the vice president came in with his motorcade and I took the Lt. Governor and his wife to their alotted seats. I worked on their campaign, so needless to say they were surprised to see me working for the vice president. Anyway, after that the meeting started and i worked with the people hosting the conference in the question and answer session of the Vice President's speech and afterewards I met the President of the Czech Republic and his entourage, my job was to escort them around the event and to meet the VP. It was incredible, there i was chatting with the president of the Czech Republic, and in Russian. He wasn't quite as friendly as his assistants, but i guess the president of a small former soviet nation, can't be all that friendly. Anyway after it was all over i had to take the Vice President's advisor on International Affairs to the airport, he had been in the private meeting with the vp and the czech president and he talked to me about it and answered my questions. I guess it was a friendly diplomatic meeting and they just chatted about the missile defense system the US is putting in Poland and the Czech Republic. Anyway, overall it was a really fantastic experience. And it was really quite fun.

I scored 100%--How about you?

2007-09-19T19:01:00.000-06:00

http://www.blogthings.com/theitsitstheretheirtheyrequiz/