Merry Christmas!

I thought it would be kinda fun to look at the year 2015 in review, as this is the last year we will remain a family a 3! (If I'm lucky, baby sister will arrive in just over 3-4 weeks tops! If I'm not lucky, well, let's not go there yet...)

*********************************************************************************

The Peterson's started off the year 2015 with a bang as they prepared to embark on a great move across time and space to the place of East Mesa, where they enjoy quick access to the freeways and a lovely view of the mountains. Danet insisted on finding a house with a pool, and since Danny and Joshua loved the water, they couldn't really complain when the dream house made itself known last Christmastime. After a month and a half of grueling packing and workouts daily (if you don't know Danet is a beach body coach), the old house was cleaned, and the 2 week stay with the grandparents commenced. Joshua enjoyed his time to play with aunts and uncles and Danet and Danny are thrilled to report their sleeping schedules were not too drastically interrupted by the growing and excited toddler.

When the time for the move arrived in February, the Peterson's were all too ready for their next adventure, and were pleased to begin enjoying the pool from a viewing perspective as the water was much too cold. They are happy to report that since that February of moving in, there will never be another cold water season as a pool heater was installed in October of this year to make it so swimming is possible even when ICE is coating the grass.

But onto other updates.

Danny has made some drastic improvements in his work situation as an electrical engineer and is currently on target to become the next head of the Electrical Group, where his title will continue to be "Great Efficient One." He has a knack for completing work in an incredibly fast period of time and his co-workers never cease to remind him of his continued success. His path to greatness only further advanced when we received word in June that he would become the father of not just ONE crazy red head, but potentially two! That's right, if you missed the memo, the Peterson's are growing by one more and becoming a family of FOUR in January or early February at the very latest in 2016. (Danet never fails to continually remind everyone of this fact on facebook and instagram, so if you've missed it, you've REALLY missed it.) Danny is thrilled to be a father of almost 2 and can't wait to get chased around by two little nutters in the near future, as well as being the primary care taker of two now declawed cats, Charlie and Niza (nee-sa).

Charlie and Niza, for those who know them, have enjoyed a year of relative peace and quiet since moving to the new house. Unless you count all the times the toddler boy of the house chases them up and down the stairs. They are fed and groom themselves all too well. There was a period of the cone of shame in October of this year as they were declawed so that Danet stopped wanting to kill them both for clawing up the carpets and rugs around the house. Their favorite past times are sleeping, eating, and sleeping. (often with one eye open since Joshua tends to attack when they least expect it.) They are not exactly sure of how to behave with a new baby arriving, but are trusted to remain calm and uncaring when the situation arrives.

Danet has spent the last year developing her online marketing business as a beach body coach. She posts about 20 times per day on facebook and instagram and is known to annoy her family members horrendously with constant workout selfies, videos, food pictures, and the occasional family updates. She taught swim lessons from May-June of this year in the once freezing pool. She also conquered the art of traveling with a toddler from AZ to upstate New York this summer on her own. For those who have never attempted traveling with a toddler (while in the first trimester of your second pregnancy), feel free to try it sometime. It's no small feat. Some of her classic moments this year include announcing a second baby this year (many many times), spending two months straight nesting and cleaning and decorating the heck out of their house before company arrived for the wedding of her oldest younger brother, and continuing in the position of super mom to Joshua. That position comes with the duty of horrendous diaper changes, chasing him down the street as he runs after neighborhood children with his dinosaur tail swinging, and of course, cutting shapes in all his food to entice the little bugger to eat well throughout the day. Lunch and dinner are the most difficult meals. She has continued singing in the small choir group and is happy to report she'll be singing again next year, along with her newborn girl, starting in January 2016. She continues to enjoy playing the piano and writing blog and facebook posts. A lot of posts.

Joshua, for those who have met him, is now a bouncing off the walls crazy two year old. His latest talents include refusing to go to sleep for nap time, meowing like a cat, and interpreting what the cats are saying. He is also fluent in fish and bubble talk, having learned from his swim teacher coach Jon how best to speak these languages. Academics wise, Joshua can count to 24, starting with 3, 4, and so on, and he can also sing the ABC's with absolutely no help at all. His parents continue to be amazed at the talents of their Little Einstein child who makes an instrument out of anything he picks up and plays flute, violin, bass, cello, piano, harp (the list could keep going), all the while, swinging his baton to direct the music. His favorite times of the week include nursery at church where he thoroughly intimidates his leaders and fellow children with how gigantic he has grown (36 inches according to the giant ruler on the wall in the house), as well as weekends when he gets to play more with his daddy and have more help to create elaborate and complicated train tracks that Thomas and his friends can drive around. His favorite books are Chugga Chugga Choo Choo and Goodnight Train, and yes, these books must be read every night or he will not fall asleep. This year, he has learned to sing happy birthday and will gladly sing it to you if you ask (over and over and over, and then he'll blow out your candles with an excessive amount of spit and air). He can also say "trick or treat" and throw a classic two year old tantrum on the floor (the kicking and screaming and flailing is no myth) if he doesn't get candy out of it. This Christmas he is hoping Mommy will let him trick or treat all the ornaments off the tree so he can save them for later. He's also hoping that his baby sister stays in mommy's tummy as he has know clear idea of what having a baby in the house will really mean for him.

As you can see, the Petersons have had a busy year and next year is just going to get busier! We're thrilled to be adding to our family and cannot wait for you all to meet our newest little princess!

Merry Christmas everyone! And Happy New Year as well!

Love,

The Petersons

PS:

If you love Christmas caramels, but didn't receive any from me this year, check out my recipe below:

I promise, they're not healthy. ;)

Christmas Caramels

1 cup butter (2 cubes)
1 cup light Karo syrup
1 14 oz can sweetened condensed milk
1 cup white sugar
1 cup brown sugar
a dash of salt (about 1/4-1/2 teaspoon depending on how salty you like them)

optional toppings: nuts, chocolate chips, candy canes, etc. to be added on top after caramel has cooked fully. 

Directions:

Combine all ingredients in a heavy pan on medium heat ( I suggest starting with the butter and stirring until it's melted BEFORE adding all the rest of the ingredients.) Using a wooden spoon, stir the caramel over medium heat until all ingredients are combined. Continue stirring frequently for 15-20 minutes, or until caramel has reached the firm ball stage on a candy thermometer. You may also test the caramel in a glass of ice water. It's done cooking when it is cooled to room temperature (ice then take it out) and is the consistency and chewiness you would like. My favorite consistency is chewy, but not TOO chewy and it's usually a darker caramel looking color.

When caramel has finished cooking, pour into a buttered 9x13 in pan (glass ones are great) and allow to cool completely before cutting and serving, or wrapping in wax paper squares. Makes about 75 pieces depending on the size of the caramels you cut.

Tips: Get an electric stirrer to stir the pot for you and avoid burning the caramel. DO NOT DOUBLE THE BATCH! Make one at a time. It'll take just as long.

Chugga Chugga TWO TWO!

Sept 20th, 2015

Dear baby boy,

2 years ago tonight, we were enjoying your company and sweet baby smiles for the first time ever as your parents.

2 years ago today, we loved you for our first little moment and for every moment after that.

2 years ago today, we became your parents. 

Happy birthday to the sweetest, kindest, most curious and loving little boy in our lives! We love you so much and can hardly believe you're REALLY our little BOY now, not just our little BABY.

You've learned so much in the last year, the last 6 months, even in just the last two weeks! We can hardly believe it when every day you seem to say or remember something completely new.

Just this last week, we found out we're going to have a little sister for you in February! We are so thrilled! You've told us from the moment we told you mommy had a "baby in her tummy" that you wanted a girl baby, so that little spirit of yours must be so close to her already.

A favorite moment we had in the last week was the time we showed you the ultrasound picture of baby sister for what was probably only the second or third time ever. We just asked you if you knew who it was. With a smile on your face, you pointed at her little tummy and told us, "baby seesta!" You have hardly stopped talking about her since!

(Except for the times this whole last week you were busy talking about your choochoo train birthday party we had over the weekend!)

The last few days have been bittersweet days for Mommy. I'm so happy you're growing and learning, but it feels all too sudden that you're a little boy instead of a baby now.


You have SO much independence that it's a little bit frightening and frustrating at times! I'm so thrilled to hear you talk and speak in sentences, but boy you sure know how to say "NO!" when you really don't want to do something!

One of my favorite moments as your mommy was the other night when you said your very first prayer with us. Usually I ask you if you want to say the prayer. That night, we were in a rush to get you into bed, so mommy just started to say the prayer.

"Heavenly father, thank you for this day, thank you----"

I stopped talking. Your little voice continued to echo mine, "thank you this day, thank you daddy, thank you mommy..."

I slowed down and we took time to help you say a nice little prayer and to say thank you for all your blessings.

What a wonderful little reminder that was to us as your parents to slow down and recognize the teaching moments we have with you at such a young age! We're so glad you're learning from our example to you, in small and simple ways.

At your birthday party, you had so many friends and family here to celebrate with you! We all love you so much and it was amazing to see you interact with so many little friends and play so nicely even though you had to share your toys with them. The cutest part of the whole day was that you kept singing "happy birthday to me" all day after the party.

I love you so much little man. It makes me so sad that you won't be this little for long, and that I'll blink and you'll be off to kindergarten in just a few more short  years--off to conquer the world with your happy hello and a smile on your face.

Sleep well little one. Mommy loves you. So so much.

10K Froyo Race and a few refreshing snacks!

Hi all! 

Today I "ran" my first 10K. I am not much of a runner, but my family all wanted to participate, so I jumped on the bandwagon. I did happily run portions of my race, but I'm pretty good with my 14.5 min mile. ;) It was so fun to participate with my sisters in law Trina, Susie, Barb, and Sarah, as well as my brother in law Stephen. 

It was definitely a neat experience, and it was made more special because my race partner was my incredible sister in law Sarah Peterson who has made some incredible changes in her life and has stuck to it for a good 9 months. She has lost a significant amount of weight in her journey and is becoming so much more confident in her active lifestyle. I'm so glad I got to run along side her and cheer her on as we finished this fun race! (pictured top far right)

This week, a few of my favorite concoctions have been chips and fresh salsa (all the ingredients minus the avocado are from Costco-I LOVE their multigrain chips)

My next favorite (really top favorite of the week) was this delicious Summer Berry "Soup" from my Blendec Recipes:

Ingredients (serves 6)
 4 cups fresh strawberries

2 cups plain yogurt (or vanilla)
1 TBSP vanilla extract

1 C almond milk, divided

1/3 c orange juice

6-8 TBSP honey or agave nector (depends on how tart/sweet you like it)

1 tsp fresh lemon juice

2 c fresh raspberries

Directions: 

Add strawberries, yogurt, 2/3 c milk, orange juice, and 4-5 TBSP honey to blender jar and secure lid. Blend for 30 seconds or push batters on Blendtec. Pour 1 cup soup into each bowl. Add remaining milk, honey, lemon juice, and raspberries to jar and blend fully. Drizzle and swirl 1/4 c raspberry blend over soup base and serve.

**try adding a lemon or orange zest to the blend for an extra citrus flavor

This is an incredible soup and the memories behind it are so much more so. On our anniversary cruise, Danny and I loved getting this as the appetizer. It was so refreshing and delicious and light. Now we can make it whenever berries are in season! I love it!

Have a wonderful weekend everyone! 

Mexican and Italian--who says they don't mesh well?

Happy Memorial Day! (A little late sorry)

I wanted to share a quick post with a couple yummy recipes I loved having this week. 

First up, Confetti Bean Salad!

This is my adapted recipe from http://www.twintough.com/2013/09/confetti-bean-salad-recipe.html

Confetti Bean Salad

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 15 minutes

Yield: a TON!

Ingredients

• 1-2 cans garbanzo beans/chickpeas
• 1 can kidney beans
• 1-2 cans black beans
• 1 package (10 oz) frozen corn, or 1 can corn 
• 1 medium red onion, sliced (I used zucchini cuz we don't like onion over here)
• 2 bell peppers, diced (any color, any combination)
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon sugar/honey
• salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Combine first seven ingredients in a large bowl.
2. Whisk remaining ingredients in a small bowl and pour over bean mixture. (I have also put the liquid ingredients in a lidded container and shaken to combine.)
3. Serve at room temperature or chilled.
4. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
   
   
   This is SO amazing over salads to give them a mexican "kick!"
   

Just another fun recipe for this week: Chicken and Spinach Lasagne! (21 day fix approved)

Ingredients: 

8oz carton of lasagna noodles (no pre-cooking of pasta)

1lb. ground beef (or shredded chicken)

1 32oz. jar of spaghetti sauce/homemade sauce at this link: http://varietybyvashti.org/2014/05/13/free-seasonings/

1/2 cup of water

1tsp salt

1 egg

2 cups of wilted spinach/kale

1 16oz. small curd cottage cheese

3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Directions:
Cook and prepare meat of choice and combine with sauce. Preheat oven to 375*. Reserve 1/2 c mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Combine remaining cheeses, spinach, egg, salt, and salt and pepper in a large bowl. Layer noodles, sauce and cheese in baking dish. Pour in 1/2 c water. Bake covered at 375 for 45-55 min, or until noodles are fully cooked. **note if frozen, then thaw and bake for 45 min.**

*Carb free garlic bread: 

2 whole zucchini

all purpose seasoning

2 TBSP Parmesan cheese

Slice squash length wise twice (to create bread stick appearance). spritz with olive oil spray and sprinkle with seasonings and Parmesan cheese. Bake uncovered in oven at 375* with lasagne for the last 15-20 min baking time on lower rack.

Serve 1 green container of lasagne with 4 slices (1 whole zucchini) of "bread."
Counts as 2 G, 2 Y, 1 R, 1 B as shown in pic above for the 21 day fix program.


I absolutely love making food and finding great recipes! Look for a post later this week for some strawberry soup! It's amazing! :) 

Cinco De Mayo (not just for May 5th)

There are some recipes that you just keep making. Not just because they taste good, but because they are fun to make, and you can do new things with the flavor. I recently started drizzling honey over my carnitas to make a mild, clean version of the Cafe Rio Sweet Pork. I like mine a lot. And so does Joshua.

He tasted this meat today and immediately asked for more. ;) Toddler tested, mother approved. 

Pork Carnitas (Peterson Style)

3 lbs pork loin

1 bay leaf

1.5 cups water

Make a spice rub...

1 tbsp cumin

1/2 tsp cloves

1 tsp onion powder

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp sea salt

2 tsp oregano

drizzle: 2 TBSP honey

Mix all spices together to make a rub. Rub entire pork loin down and place in crock pot. Add bay leaf and water, then drizzle with honey. Cook on low 6-8 hours and shred it up in your mixing bowl.

Serve with: 

2 corn tortillas or 1 flour tortilla

black or pinto beans

Green leaf lettucce

fresh salsa

mashed avocado with lime juice

shredded cheese

Cilantro Lime Dressing

1 medium avocado, cut into chunks

1 1/2 cups plain Greek Yogurt (nonfat)

4 Tbsp finely chopped herbs (ex: tarragon, parsley, mint, or cilantro)

3 Tbsp fresh lime juice

1/4 tsp sea salt

1 dash ground white pepper

1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil

I LOVE LOVE LOVE this recipe and use it every other week when I throw in the mexican food for the meal planning. Enjoy!

Fish, Pancakes and Chicken!

Okay, so I'm not that big of a fan of fish. Unless it's flavored JUST right, and then I'll eat it.

lately, my go to meal for at least one night a week for the family (cuz they love it too), is oven roasted tilapia with roasted brocolli and a side of rice and beans.

Simple. Easy, Fast. Little to no prep. My favorite for a busy day and a headache.

White Fish Recipe:
4 Tilapia Fillets
2 tsp olive oil (or spray pan and fish liberally)
2 TBSP lemon juice
1-2 tsp all purpose seasoning per fillet (see recipe below for seasoning mix)
dash of salt and pepper per fish fillet

Preheat oven to 400*. Drizzle or spray fish with olive oil and lemon juice, the sprinkle seasoning mix liberally over the fish. If desired, top with 1 TBSP fresh Parmesan cheese. Bake in oven for 18-20 min or until fish flakes easily.


21 Day Fix All-Purpose Seasoning

• 4 tsp onion powder
• 2 tsp garlic powder
• 2 tsp. mustard powder
• 1/4 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp sea salt

Mix together and use on meats or grains!


Sweet Potato Protein Pancakes(1 Y 1/3 R) (servings=6)
2 eggs + 8 egg whites
1 c mashed sweet potato
1/2 cup old fashioned oatmeal
1/2 cup whole wheat flour
1 tsp baking powder
2 tsp cinnamon
1 TBSP coconut oil

Combine all ingredients in a blender. Makes about 6 DVD sized pancakes. Serve with fresh fruit and 1/2 Greek yogurt. My favorite brand is Fage` from Costco. Mmmm good!


Basil Tomato Chicken "parm"

1 TBSP dried parsley
1 TBSP dried basil
4 cloves of garlic
1/2 tsp salt
4-5 tsp olive oil
8 slices tomato
1/4-1/3 c Parmesan and mozzarella cheese
4 boneless skinless chicken breast

Preheat oven to 375*. Combine spices, garlic, salt, and olive oil to create a "pesto." spread evenly over all four chicken breasts. top with 2-3 slices tomato per chicken breast, and sprinkle with parmesan and mozzarella cheeses. Bake for 25-30 min covered with tinfoil and then 5-10 min more without. Enjoy! Delicious served with oven roasted broccoli and a whole wheat pasta side, or some homemade french bread.

Recipes of the week complete! I love these ones and I hope you enjoy them as well!

Happy Mother's Day!

Apple Pie Breakfast PaZookie! (Recipe per request)

I posted this delicious breakfast on my instagram this morning and it got such a great response that I wanted to share the recipe with each of you!

This is a recipe that is actually a part of my 5 day free clean eating group on Facebook from April 29th-May 3rd, so if you're interested in being a part of that, then check it out at this link and request to join!

https://www.facebook.com/groups/1591420627767207/

This was simple, delicious, and filling.

Breakfast: Oatmeal PizOOkie! {4 servings}

■Preheat oven to 375 degrees f

2 cup dry oatmeal

8 tablespoons almond flour/coconut flour (you may substitute whole wheat flour if needed

8 tablespoons mashed banana (2 medium ripe bananas)

1 egg to help hold it together well

1-2 TBSP water to moisten if needed

Sweetener is optional: pinch stevia, 2 tsp raw honey, or 2 tsp agave.
2-3 tsp cinnamon

½ tsp salt

 OPTIONAL add ins:

1 Tbs flaxseeds,

1 Tbs cacao powder (for chocolate cookie),

1 Tbs cacao chips, OR,

1 Tbs almond/peanut butter.

Directions:

Mix oats, almond flour and mashed banana in a medium bowl.

Mix in your optional Add-Ins of choice. Combine well.

Place the mixture on a parchment lined baking sheet, form into a round 6-8 inch cookie and flatten about 1/4-1/2 inch thickness.

Bake at 375 degrees f for 8-10 min.

Flip carefully with large spatula and then bake for an additional 5-8 min. Keep an eye on it.

You want the edges to just brown. Cool.

Mix a few tablespoons Greek yogurt, quark, or whipped coconut cream, with a drop of vanilla and a pinch of your favorite sweetener.

Spread the yogurt/cream the cookie. Top with your favorite fruit, berries or nuts.

To serve this as an "apple pie" then top with 1/2 of one medium granny smith apple, 3/4 c plain yogurt (for your protein), and sprinkle with cinnamon. I didn't need any other sweetener, but honey or pure maple syrup is an option to drizzle a little over the top.

I hope you all enjoy this! Don't forget to follow my blog! 

Just Giving A Talk today....

April 19^th, 2015 Sacrament Meeting Talk: Continuous Revelation

Good morning!

My name is Danet Peterson. My husband, Danny, my son Joshua and I moved into this ward about two months ago—it really doesn’t feel like it’s even been that long! We are so grateful to be a part of this ward and look forward to getting to know more of you. Since I’m speaking first, I’ll give you a little background on the two of us: we met in an ASU single’s ward in the fall of 2010. We knew each other, and associated on social media and through church activities, but didn’t begin dating until November that year. We actually began our love story as we waited for tithing settlement appointments.

 I was prompted to sit by him and talk to him, and being the out-going and social butterfly I was, I quickly and without too much question heeded that prompting. I’m so glad I did!  After essentially inviting myself to his apartment, where I cooked dinner for us (out of craving to cook something after being in the dorms without a kitchen for so long—those of you who know me well now know that I LOVE food)—but after that, he asked me on a date. I was busy, and couldn’t go on a date with him until the following week after finals, choir concerts, etc. had concluded.

The next Sunday, a week after we had officially “met” at tithing settlement, I needed a ride out to my family’s home in Gilbert. Danny volunteered to drive me, since it was on the way to his family get together that Sunday evening in Queen Creek. As he waited in the car to pick me up, he has since told me that he felt impressed to ask if I would like to join them for family dinner that evening. I felt like it would be a little unorthodox to meet his parents before we’d even been on a real date, but decided to go with it. It felt like the right thing to do.

How grateful we BOTH are that we heeded the promptings we could have easily dismissed as trivial and silly thoughts that didn’t merit being acted upon. That Sunday night’s CRAZY family dinner was the first evening I began to fall in love with the man sitting behind me, and I haven’t stopped falling for him ever since.

We will have been married 4 years this coming May, and have an adorable little boy, Joshua Timothy, who is currently in the “adjustment phase” of nursery time. For those who have or have had nursery age children, this is the period of time when your child cries, A LOT, but is perfectly fine as soon as you are in room with them. Joshua has been a light in our lives every day and we each look forward to the new things he is learning to do on a daily basis.

My husband and I have been asked to speak on the topic of continuing revelation, as it was addressed in a talk given last October by President Henry B Eyring in General Conference.  I tend to be the more talkative one in our relationship, so I’ll do my best to leave him some time. If you hear a toddler randomly crying “momma!” in the halls or chapel, then that would be Joshua. Separation anxiety is a real thing in our house.

I would like to focus specifically on how revelation can and should be continuous for each of us on an individual basis, in relation to our personal choices in life and our roles in our families.  

In his talk last October, Elder Eyring said the following early on in his address,

“Human judgment and logical thinking will NOT be enough to get answers to the questions that matter most in life. We need revelation from God.”

I will be the first to admit that I usually look for a logical and concrete solution to the problems I’ve had in life. But the times I have been more fully blessed and inspired have been the times when, though perhaps grudgingly, I heeded the promptings which were given to me. I would like to talk on two points: first, being continuously prepared to receive personal revelation and second, acting regularly on the revelation we receive.

In order to receive continuous revelation in our lives, we must constantly be ready and willing to receive it. Doctrine and Covenants Section 8, vs 2-6 reads,

“2 Yea, behold, I will tell you in your mind and in your heart, by the Holy Ghost, which shall come upon you and which shall dwell in your heart.

 3 Now, behold, this is the spirit of revelation; behold, this is the spirit by which Moses brought the children of Israel through the Red Sea on dry ground.

 4 Therefore this is thy gift; apply unto it, and blessed art thou, for it shall deliver you out of the hands of your enemies, when, if it were not so, they would slay you and bring your soul to destruction.

 5 Oh, remember these words, and keep my commandments. Remember, this is your gift.”

In these 5 verses, the word, “gift” is used twice. In the whole section, it is actually used 7 times. I feel like this is an important point because a gift implies both something that is equally available to all of us from our heavenly father, but that must be both given and received in correct circumstances.

Each baptized member of the church has been given the gift of the Holy Ghost. It is a gift we may ALWAYS have to be with us, if we fulfill our part in the baptismal covenant—to keep his commandments, to take his name upon us, and to endure to the end. The Holy Ghost knows the truth of all things and will communicate with us constantly if we are worthy.

In regards to personal revelation, I feel it’s important to point out that in physically and spiritually dangerous circumstances, the Spirit will ALWAYS make an attempt to prompt us. Whether we listen in the moment is up to us. However, I believe that the volume of his whispers will be more apparent in our lives, no matter the situation or decision we face, if we are striving to be in tune with gospel teachings, following the commandments, and seeking to individually invite the spirit into our lives.

We can ensure the presence of the Spirit in our lives by doing the things we know and hear as the primary answers. Having been a primary teacher for a few years recently, I can testify to you that those answers—pray, read our scriptures, church and temple attendance—are all we need to be more receptive to the promptings of the spirit.

I’ve been reading in the book of Nephi for the last month or so, and one of the chapters that comes to mind in light of this talk is the time Nephi recounts his experience with striving to know the meaning of his father, Lehi’s dream about the tree of life. In the multiple chapters, the angel asks Nephi, “Behold, what desirest thou?”

Nephi’s account then describes how he asked the angel of the Lord to show him the meaning of all the things which were a part of the dream of the tree of life. Before this vision occurred, however, Nephi states that he “sat pondering.”

This is a difficult state for me and for many of us in today’s busy world. To ponder means to be engaged in quiet reflection, purposefully seeking and listening for the whisperings of the Spirit.

Pondering is how we can, as President Packer has stated, “See, hear, and feel to [receive]…revelation.” He also explains that “our spirits learn in a different way than” our minds. The easiest way to bridge the gap between how our minds learn and how our spirits learn is by utilizing prayer in our everyday lives.

President Packer also said in his talk on personal revelation, “Prayer is so essential a part of revelation that without it the veil may remain closed to you. Learn to pray. Pray often. Pray in your mind, in your heart. Pray on your knees…Prayer is your personal key to heaven. The lock is on your side of the veil.” This brings to my mind the image of the Savior knocking on the door, only there is no door knob on the outside. It’s up to us to invite the Spirit and by extension, the Savior into our lives and homes.

One place that it is particularly important that we spend time is right here in our church meetings, where we can regularly participate in the ordinance of the sacrament and renew our covenants with the Father. But equally important is attendance in the temple. The temple is where prophets of old and prophets today go to receive the guidance of the Lord. Inside the holy walls of the temple, or as in olden days, on top of a high mountain, is where the Spirit of the Lord is most free to instruct us and guide us.

Throughout our dating experience, Danny and I strove to attend the temple together and do baptisms for the dead on a regular basis. That habit was something that enabled both of us to receive personal confirmation by the witness of the Spirit that we were making a righteous decision in choosing to get married. During our sealing ceremony, we were counseled, as many of us are, to return often to the temple, both on a regular basis and as need permitted.

I have struggled immensely with depression in the last year or so, but have come to learn it’s something I’ve struggled with most of my adult life so far. The biggest shield I have against the dark whisperings of the adversary is personal revelation received in the temple during some of my darkest moments. The interesting thing about personal revelation is that it’s always changing based on our circumstances. A verse of scripture that stuck with me one day during a particular moment may not be the same verse I need to see on a different difficult day. And some days are not difficult-on the easier days; I have to remind myself to continue to work on my faith, so that it is stronger than it was before.

As we pray and study the gospel on a daily basis, we will build up a wall molded and shaped by faith and our testimony of the basic truths in the scriptures. President Packer said this of revelation as it pertains to faith, “The flow of revelation depends on your faith…Be believing and your faith will be constantly replenished, your knowledge of the truth increased, and your testimony of the Redeemer, of the Resurrection, of the Restoration will be as “a well of living water, springing up unto everlasting life.”  You may then receive guidance on practical decisions in everyday life.”  

When I attended EFY as a youth, one of the songs on the EFY Music CD that we were sent home with was titled, “Live Like You Believe.” Not Live and Believe, or Simply, Believe, but to Life LIKE you believe, even if it doesn’t feel like you can.

I tend to doubt the promptings that are given to me—I always wonder if logically they are really promptings, or just simply the desires of my heart being made into thoughts by my brain. We are not THAT intelligent brothers and sisters, nor should we doubt the Spirit of the Lord who speaks only TRUTH.  One of my goals in life is to learn to simply accept the guidance of the Spirit, especially when I have sought and struggled to find an answer before said guidance comes.

One final thought: In the scriptures we hear it said many times that “faith without works is dead.” I would alter this statement: “Personal revelation without works is dead.” The Spirit can only speak to us if we are worthy. If we are worthy and hear the prompting of the spirit, but choose to ignore it, as agency allows us to do, the consequence is that the Spirit will withdraw. In order to always have the Spirit with us, we must both heed and act upon the promptings we receive. The more regularly that we act on the promptings we are given and act quickly, the more often we will come to recognize instances of personal revelation in our lives and the more blessed we will become.

I testify to you that the simple act of striving to believe, to do the simple primary answers-- pray, read the scriptures, attend church meetings and the temple regularly—will then lead you to being worthy of having the spirit with you always.

As President Packer said in his talk years ago, “We must face life “led by the Spirit, not knowing beforehand the things which [we] should do,” 38 just as Nephi did.”

I know that my Redeemer lives. I know he loves each and every one of us. I know that the gospel was restored by the prophet Joseph Smith and that the ordinances of the gospel enable us to live with our families forever. I have a testimony of the power of prayer and the power of priesthood blessings. I know that I have room for improvement in accepting and acting fully on the personal revelation I receive in my life, but I am trying to improve and that is the best any of us can do. I love my husband and my son and I am so grateful for his steadfast testimony and faith in the power of prayer and revelation. I say these things in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.
 

Sweet Potato Pancakes! Delish!

I made these delicious pancakes for breakfast this morning. I made a few modifications to the recipe at this link to make it 21 day fix approved. :)

Pancakes are a favorite at my house. I love how they make the air smell like fresh bread and cookies all mixed together in wonderful aromas.

Here's what my serving looked like today, served as described in the recipe below.

**Tip of the day: A serving of pancakes should be about the same size of a CD. This is a single serving of grains, 1 yellow container on the 21 day fix, and very filling, nutritious, and all natural in one go! Plus, the kids will love them!

Sweet Potato Pancakes
(serves 8)-1 pancake each, or 2 small if you make 16 hot cakes

On 21 day fix: 1Y, ¼ R, 1 tsp. serve with 1P of fresh fruit, and ¾ r plain yogurt with cinnamon

Ingredients:

1 c mashed sweet potato

1.5 c whole wheat flour

2/3 c almond milk

3 whole eggs

4 egg whites

4 TBSP melted coconut oil

½ c plain greek yogurt

1 TBSP baking powder

1 tsp baking soda

½ tsp salt

2 TBSP pure maple syrup (honey/stevia substitute allowed)

1 ½ tsp cinnamon

1 tsp pumpkin pie spice

Directions:

Combine dry ingredients, and then blend all ingredients in blender or mixing bowl. Cook on skillet at medium-high heat for 2-3 min per side, or until fully cooked through.  Enjoy! Serve with fresh fruit and your choice of protein.

Happy Saturday! Enjoy your weekend!

Dinner Recipe of the week!

I am always on the look out for new recipes to add to my arsenal, cuz let's face it, you have to be armed with delicious healthy food to combat all the junk that's available and much more convenient to grab and go.

I try to make a new recipe 1x per week, maybe every 2 weeks. I'm not always successful. Sometimes I get stuck in my current weeks of dinners, then a month goes by and we've eaten the same thing all month and it's no wonder I'm completely sick of the food I'm eating!

These yummy friends were awesome, and fairly simple to make with a little prep.

I used this site as my inspiration, but my recipe has a few personal twists to it: http://www.danielle-may.com/#!21-day-fix-ideas/c1laa

Twice Baked Chipotle Chicken Sweet Potato Skins

Servings (3 as main dish, 6 as side)
Main dish for 21 day fix= 1Y, 1 R, 1 G, 1/2-1B, 1 tsp
Prep: 30 min
Cook: 30 min

Ingredients

• 3 medium sweet potatoes
• 1 pound (about 3-4 small) grilled chicken breast (enough to fill 3 red containers on 21 day fix)
• 1/4 cups olive oil
• 2 tablespoon fresh lime juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced or grated
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/4-1/2 tsp chipotle chili pepper
• 2-3 tsp honey (optional to offset the spicy flavor)
• salt and pepper
• 3 cups spinach, raw
• 1 c sharp white cheddar cheese, grated (I used about 1/3 c for 2 halves of potatoes, 1 B for 21 day fix)
• chopped cilantro, for garnish
• greek yogurt, for serving

Instructions

**I had grilled chicken on hand from the night before. Instead of doing this step, I chose to simply microwave my 3 sweet potatoes for 15 min or so. While they were microwaving I did steps 2-3. So I skipped pretty much the whole of step one. It's great to grill up lots of chicken to use for the whole week!***1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees. Wash your sweet potatoes and prick all over with a fork. Place in the oven and bake for 50-60 minutes or until fork tender. Place your chicken in a baking dish and rub with a tablespoon of olive oil, salt and peper. Place in the oven with the potatoes and bake for 25 minutes. Allow to cool and shred the chicken with a fork or your hands. When the sweet potatoes are done cut in half and allow to cool for 5-10 minutes.

2. In a medium size bowl combine the olive oil, lime juice, garlic, chipotle spices, oregano, cumin, salt and pepper. Set aside.

3. Heat a small skillet over medium heat and wilt the spinach (this can also be done in the microwave). Toss the spinach and shredded chicken together, set aside and keep warm.

4. Turn the oven up to 400 degrees. Scrape the sweet potato out of the peel, leaving a medium size layer of flesh inside with the peel so that it can stand up on its own (I reserved the remaining flesh, for another use, so this leaves 1 y container of flesh for every 2 medium potatoes) and place in a baking dish. Brush the skins with with a little of the chipotle sauce and bake for 5-10 muntes until nice and crisp. While the skins bake mix the spinach, chicken and chipotle sauce together. Remove skins from the oven and stuff with the chicken mixture, top with shredded cheese and bake for 10 minutes or until the cheese has melted and the skins are hot and crisp. Serve with fresh chopped cilantro and greek yogurt if desired.

This recipe was SO yummy! If you want to try it, be sure to share the link for my blog with your friends and family!

I hope you enjoy trying it out this weekend! :)