Canned Pumpkin

ABQ friends: Sams Club is closing out their canned pumpkin (3 pack) for $0.91. Yep! That's less than $1 for 3 large cans of pumpkin!! Better go grab you some!!

Annual Burns Halloween Party

Hello Friends!

It is that time of year again. I love it! Look forward to it every year. Leaves changing, weather changing, love it all!!! With Fall comes our annual Halloween Carnival.

It is going to be Sat. October 20 from 4:30-6:30ish. We are going to do it at the park just north of Walgreen's this year. It's an awesome park with lots of tables and room.

Here's how it works. Everyone is invited. The more the merrier.

We have dinner...I provide hot dogs, buns and homemade root beer. You provide the sides and the desserts. They can be Halloween related or not. We aren't picky.

Every family needs to bring some sort of game/activity/booth to share as well. It is always so fun to see fun games people bring. We have had photo booth, face painting, pumpkin bowling, a cake walk, bobbing for doughnuts, bean bag toss, etc. The possibilities are endless.

 So in order to avoid have duplicate games, it has worked well to have everyone email me and let me know what game you are planning. Also to let me know what you are bringing for potluck (like side, dessert, condiments, main dish, etc) so that we don't have too many of one thing.

It's FUN. It's FREE. It's for the FAMILY! It doesn't get any better than this.  Please email me if you are interested (stef.burns at gmail.com) so we can get this thing started.

Hi Sisters!

If anyone has any used Ensign, New Era, or Friend magazines that you would like to donate to the Bishop's Storehouse, please contact Marlene.  We put these on a display table and let our patrons take them for free.  We can use Friend magazines from ANY year and Ensign and New Eras from the year 2005 and up.  Also if you have any used church books that you don't want anymore we will gladly take those also.  Give me a call and I will come pick them up, or you can bring them to church.  899-8138.

A new family will be moving into our ward in Oct. and is looking to rent a 3-bedroom (or larger) house for six months. If anyone knows of one that is available, please let Terri B. know.

Free Formula

Hi Ladies,
I have 2 trial cans of Similac formula that was given to me from a friend.  She got them in the mail and didn't need/want them.  They are new and not expired.

Call Kellie W.  from VC Ward
(801) three six zero- 9356 or  kelliejh (at) yahoo (dot) com

Double/triple stroller for sale

I'm ready to down-size my stroller and thought I'd post this for any of you moms who have a few little ones...

For sale:  very nice double/triple stroller. There is an extra slide out seat in the back with a platform for your older child to sit or stand for the ride. Great condition, comes with 2 trays, 2 universal carseat carrier cradles and straps and an extra wheel that was sent to us when the 1st one had a small crack upon shipping arrival. If you're handy you can strip it for parts later on if necessary...

Big Caboose by Joovy-- click on website below for more specs and information.
http://www.joovy.com/p-13-appletree-big-caboose-stand-on-triple-stroller.aspx

Paid $350 for it on Amazon and my kids have outgrown it. Asking $225 OBO. call eight nine nine zero five nine three and ask for Melissa.

Recipe Group: Apples, Apples!!

I love Fall!! And it is almost here. Whoot!

This month for recipe group we are using apples.

It can be a new recipe. Something old. A technique you have never used or one you are an expert at. Appliscious is the name, eating it is our game.

This month it will be next Tues, Sept 11 at 12:00pm at Kellie H.'s house...the new one.

Let's try something new, shall we. One of the reasons we have this group is to share recipes...that way you know what the recipe tastes like and can decide if you want to add it to your favorites or quietly hope you never have to taste that again.

If possible, can you send me (stef.burns at gmail.com) your recipe before hand that way I can have it to put on the blog. You can take a picture of the recipe, type it out, send me the link. I am not picky. Just want to be able to share all the yumminess that you have to offer. If you forget to send it before hand, just bring a copy of it to the recipe group. And if you still forget, just send me an email.

Let's share our apple recipes! See ya there!!!

how to easily separate an egg

Did you know you can easily separate an egg from it's white?  The video below (in Chinese, strangely enough) demonstrates it as such:
1) crack your egg and empty everything onto a dish
2) hold an empty plastic water bottle above it, one with a narrow neck.
3) squeeze the bottle gently (like you're crushing it) and then put the lip of the bottle over the yolk
4) release your hand's pressure on the bottle and the air pressure within the bottle will suck up ONLY the yolk.
5) squeeze the bottle over your desired drop location (another dish, the sink, etc.) and the yolk will pop back out of the bottle.  How simple and amazing is that?

This will be my new method of separating eggs.  I'm very impressed!

 http://bbs.wenxuecity.com/cooking/1160651.html

Sunshine Generation

Does your child like to perform! We sing, dance, act, and build confidence!

SUNSHINE GENERATION TIME IS COMING SOON...FIRST CLASS STARTS TUESDAY, SEPT. 4TH

It's going to be an exciting year! Tuition is the same great price as last year, $36 a month. This week, flyers will be distributed through the Ventana Ranch Schools, so call or email today to hold a spot for your child. Limited class size.

Classes are Tuesdays: First class starts Tuesday, Sept. 4th 4:15-4:55
Sunbeams ages 3-5 5:00-5:50
Sundance ages 6-8 6:00-6:50
Sound Station ages 9-13


Hope to hear from all of you soon! Andrea Rogers (member of Ventana ward)
Director of Sunshine Generation of Albuquerque 505-715-2841

Food on a stik, anyone??

Time to start cookin' again. Okay, so maybe none of you stopped doing that...ahem.

No matter...it's time to start sharing some of your recipes again. If you have never been, come! If you have been, come! KNow someone who would like to come, great. The more the merrier.

August's theme is Food on a Stick. Anything....be creative. Cook it up, bring it and one copy of the recipe to share.

Let's do it Tuesday, Aug 21 at 12pm.

I, Stef, will host it at my new place. Not sure I want to post my address here...and it isn't listed in the ward directory. Email me (stef.burns at gmail.com) and I can send you my address, or call me 898- three two three five.

See ya there!!

ASL Cllasses...again.

Yep, it's that time again. Well, at least that time is approaching.

If you don't already know, Brian and/or I have been teaching ASL classes out of our home. We do it for a few reasons. Talking to a deaf person when you don't know how to talk to a deaf person is a little intimidating. So the more people we teach, the more people Brian has to talk to. Granted, most of them are women...but I haven't heard him complain too much about that.

It also provides a time for me to chat with and make new friends. For an hour. Every week. Not bad, right?

In the past we have just done the classes during the week, during the day. Usually Thursday mornings. We are still going to be doing that. But we are also considering teaching a class on Saturday mornings if there is enough interest.

The classes are free. They are usually in our home. We are hoping to get things going again in September.

If you are interested or know of people who are interested, please let me know. My email address is stef dot burns@ gmail dot com. You can also call me 816 eight zero seven four.

Oh, I'm Stef Burns, btw.

need a sitter

Patti Goodson from the Volcano Cliffs ward needs help finding a sitter during the day this week Wednesday, Thursday and Friday for her kids while her current nanny is out of town. If you'd like to make a little extra money this week and watch her 2 kids ages 4 and 6 please email her at phgoodson AT gmail DOT com for details.

CANNING JARS

I would love to pick up about 2-3 dozen quart size jars.  If you have extra you no longer use I would love to purchase them from you!

Contact Kellie W.
kelliejh (at) yahoo (dot) com

THANKS!!

CANNING JARS

I would love to pick up about 2-3 dozen quart size jars.  If you have extra you no longer use I would love to purchase them from you!

Contact Kellie W.
kelliejh (at) yahoo (dot) com

THANKS!!

I am interested in information about what dance classes and what soccer classes are offered here on the West Side.  Please email me anita@byu.net if you know something about them.  Thanks

Music Class for Kids

I am posting this for a friend...She lives in Rio Ranch and is a great lady!!

I am starting an intro to music class for kids ages 4-6.  We'll learn and explore rhythms, sounds, music and piano. It will be in the day time while older siblings are at school.   It will be like a play group once a week for an hour, full of music and fun activities.   There will be 3 sessions lasting 10 weeks each. (Levels 1, 2 & 3)  At the end of the 30 weeks of lesson, each child will be ready to begin private piano instruction.  It will be a small group of children (no more than 4-5) in a classroom atmosphere.  The cost will be $15 each class ($60/month).  The first 10 week session will begin when school begins.

If you would please pass this along to anyone you know who might be interested in something like this I'd really appreciate it!

Thanks!!  Kristine
five- 0- five -five- 5- four -9 -nine-5 -eight

Hi, Im holding a piano camp next week, monday july 16- thursday july 19 from 10:30-11:30. We will be leaning about notes, rhythm and touch briefly on a few composers. I plan to have one of my older piano students helping me out so that each child will get some one on one piano time with me.Your child does not need to have any musical experiance. I will be accepting the first 7 poeple to sign up. cost is $40. please contact me(Becca P.) asap at 400-7298.

accepting new preschoolers

We've got 2 (maybe 3) openings for preschoolers in our co-op next year if any of you moms out there are willing to teach for 2 days once every 6-7 weeks. Your child MUST be turning 5 by September 1st, 2013, no exceptions.  We have 2 girls and 2 boys already in our group that fit this criteria.  Email me and let me know if you're interested in discussing what we're planning.
melissa dot lee dot spencer at gmail dot com

Free Calico Cat

Macy is a 4 year old spayed female long haired calico cat.

She is current on all her vaccinations, rabies and she is micro chipped.

Contact Heidi C. VC Ward

morsyd at gmail dot com

Doterra Essential Oils

If you have ever wanted to try Doterra Oils, but did not want to spend a bundle on the family kit, read on.

This handy little keychain holds a 2 mL sample of eight different oils. Because I am putting it together, you get my eight favorites.

What is the catch? I need seven people to do it, or else I would have a ton of oils left over. The cheapest on ebay is $50. I priced it out, and I can do it for $38, if I get seven people to go in on the oils. What a bargain!

Included in this "offer":

a black or purple key chain

Modern Essentials booklet (how to use the oils)

2 ml samples of my favorite eight oils:

1.lemon

2.lavendar

3.melaleuca

4.peppermint

5.DigestZen (digestive issues like heartburn, gas, tummy aches)

6.Breathe (Vicks on steroids! Love this one)

7.OnGuard (all around immune booster)

8.Past Tense (headache/migraine relief)

By the way, I am not making any money off of this. I am not looking for a "down-line" or anything like that. I feel like the oils have helped me and my family and I wanted a more economical way to introduce people to them other than the $150 family kit! The good news is, you get an intro without costing and arm and a leg, and then, if you like them, you have the nifty little key chain that you can throw into your diaper bag or camping gear.

Another thing, Leah Acton is able to teach classes, she just can't do them out of her home because she has little ones under foot. She said if someone wanted to host a class in July at their house, she would throw in another key chain with 8 different oils--giving you a larger exposure. Apparently, if you buy a family kit in July, you get $100 towards more oils. My thinking is, if we do the key chains now, then you can see if you like them and then you can buy the kit end of July and get the extra oils.

Again, I am not making any money off of this. I am just trying to be helpful in my own little way. Let me know if you are interested in a key chain and I will see if we have enough interest to get them ordered. E-mail me at girlpowerjedi (at) hotmail (dot) com if you would like to order one.

Job Opportunity

For anyone interested in full-time job tending a newborn child, please contact Lori Mortley @379-6375.

Help a Sister!

Stefanie B. is cleaning her house tomorrow since they are moving to a different home in the neighborhood.  She is starting at 10 AM.  Any help you can provide I know she would appreciate so much.  Thanks! 

PS if anyone would like to drop their kids off here from 10-12 to help out, let me know.  We will probably do water games in the backyard, so bring swimsuits!

-Kristie L.

Jeans available

I am FINALLY finished with my jean quilt that has been 5 years in the making!!!  I still have a HUGE assortment of jeans left (some that are seam/zipper free and ready to be cut into squares, others that are just holey and you'll have to start demolishing them).  Do you want them?  Email me at melissa dot lee dot spencer at gmail dot com before next Saturday or they're going to Savers.

Parenting notes from last week's party

Thanks to all who came to the parenting party/potluck from last week. It was amazing and I know I'm already seeing good results from the great advice you ladies voiced.

*** A nice wooden spoon, a pink/green sippy cup with handles and some spiderman sunglasses were left at my house. Are they yours?***** melissa dot lee dot spencer at gmail dot com

 To re-cap on the highlights, I'm putting a little bullet list below of some suggested ideas that were discussed (sorry this is a novel!);
1. In addition to "self maintenance chores" (making your bed, brushing your teeth, keeping your room clean, taking your dishes to the sink), assign each child one additional chore that helps out the entire family (dusting, mopping, vacuuming, etc.) See the very bottom of this email for my chore rotation list.

 2. Little ones can help sort laundry, dust, unload the dishwasher, make their beds, etc. Do it with them and train them until they're good at it themselves.

3. Having "training" sessions where you're teaching your kids a new chore. You'll have to revisit these steps every so often. Perfection comes with practice and time. Praise their work ethic more than their skills at first.

4. For allowances, suggest that the kids set a goal for what they're wanting to save and then help them remember this goal at trips to the store. Some families give $1 per year of age/month (ex. a 9 year old earns $9/month) starting around age 4 or 5... Or you could try $0.50 per year of age per week (a 9 year old would earn $18 a month). You'll have to play with the numbers to see what works with your kids. Some families do more and require that birthday gifts for friends come out of their own money ($10 minimum gift with a $20 reserve in their savings as a minimum.) Some families reward kids for saving by an "interest" payment quarterly, some "loan" money to their kids at ridiculous interest rates to teach the pitfalls of credit. You can require that a set amount be put towards long term savings, short term spending and tithing to teach money management.

 5. Offer "money chores" to supplement the allowance. Again, each family's numbers will be different. The principle is that you want to teach your kids to work and if they have ample amounts of money then they'll be less inclined to want to work hard to save up for things. Here's a example of some "money chores" I make available at my house (along with their very modest rates...) Fold & put away laundry: $4, Scrub the barstools down: $1/chair, weeding: $1/set area (based on skill level), Scrub down the refrigerator (outside and in): $8, Organize drawers: varies based on the size of the drawer and it's disaster status. The sky is really the limit in what I'll offer to my kids for money chores. If they come to me saying they want some more money I'll generally give them a list of 4 or 5 things on my own to-do list at the moment.

6. Creative parenting; see Sacha B's spot on Pintrest for ideas- for kids who stick their tongues out at others, they must sit in the corner and keep their tongue stuck out for X minutes, for arms that hit, that arm must go in time out (belt or tape it to their body for X minutes)

 7. Self confidence comes from being able to do things for yourself (not necessarily from sports, instruments or school work)

 8. Emphasize the words "I'm so proud of how hard you worked" rather than "You're so smart or talented". A study found that telling your kids you were proud of them inspired greater success than just telling them you thought they were good.

 9. Another good motivating phrase is "I love seeing you....(read), (dance), (Play the piano), (work hard), (Keep your room clean.)

10. Find your child's motivation (or something they're passionate about) and use that as their "currency" to motivate them in chores and other areas. 11. Christine G. suggested a great idea that has been working wonders at my own house this week- restrict breakfast until their room is tidy and they're dressed. Genius!

12. Have a weekly meeting on Sunday with each child (mom or dad) and have it be an opportunity for candid discussion. Ask specific questions about areas of morality with your kids too.

13. Have a monthly "date" for each child with either Mom or Dad- builds love, trust and good memories. They do not have to be expensive.

14. Have a birds/bees talk with your child by the time they're 8 years old. Continue to keep it an open channel of communication by discussing it frequently- revisit the idea as your kids grow each year.

 I'm copying below my kid's chore chart rotation that a few of you asked for. Don't judge- it's not perfect and areas of our house do get missed every so often... If you want to do something similar I suggest you make a list of the chores that you want done at your house each week and then divvy them out based on skill level. Amy H's idea was cool too- write all these chores down on their own popsicle stick and then pull out several at a time and set them on the table. Then everyone can pick one, do the chore, then come back and grab another one. This is awesome because it encourages quick working so you're not left with the undesirable chores....

 January, April, July, October
 Lily
M- clean kids bathtub with ajax
T- kids bathroom toilet, sink, mirror
W- sweep kitchen
Th- sanitize door knobs & light switches
F- dust, wipe moldings in dining room, piano room & TV room
S- vacuum upstairs & stairs

Corinne
M- clean back door glass, dust
T- clean downstairs bathroom toilet, sink & mirror
W- sweep under the kitchen table
Th- wipe moldings in all bedrooms
F- clean parent’s shower with ajax
S- wipe moldings in upstairs & downstairs halls

Henry
M- clean parent’s bathroom toilet, sink & mirror
T- sweep under the Island, wipe moldings in 3 bathrooms
W- dust, clean big bathtub OR downstairs shower as needed with ajax
Th- take out trashes & recycling
F- bring in trash & recycling bin, clean back door glass
S- clean downstairs toilet, sink & mirror

February, May, August, November
Lily
M- clean back door glass
T- sweep front step, clean front door glass
W- Sweep ALL tile in house
Th- wipe moldings down in 3 rooms or halls, different from the week before
F- clean downstairs bathroom toilet, sink & mirror
S- vacuum upstairs & downstairs

 Corinne
M- clean downstairs bathroom toilet, sink & mirror
T- Dust
W- mop ALL tile in house
Th- take out trashes & recycling
F- bring in trash & recycling bin, clean parent’s toilet, sink & mirror
S- sweep front doorstep of leaves, clean front door glass

Henry
M- wipe moldings in all bedrooms
T- clean kids’ bathroom toilet, sink & mirror
W- sanitize door knobs & light switches
Th-clean backdoor glass
F- Dust
S- sweep under the island 

March, June, September & December
Lily
M- clean parents toilet & sink
T- sweep under table, mop kitchen & dining rooms
W- dust, clean parents mirror
Th- collect all trashes & recycling, take out to bin
F- Bring in big trash can & recycling bin
S- Vacuum downstairs, sweep under table

Corinne
M- clean kids toilet &sink
T- sweep kitchen & bathrooms, mop bathrooms entryway & laundryroom
W- clean kids mirror, sanitize doorknobs & lightswitches
Th- clean back door glass
F- clean kids sink
S- dust, vacuum stairs, sweep kitchen

Henry
M- sweep front doorstep, clean back door glass
T- Sweep laundry room & entryway
W- Clean downstairs toilet, sink & mirror
Th- sweep under the island
F- clean front door glass
S- clean downstairs toilet & sink

Incredible Art Classes!

Just a friendly reminder ...June 4th is the last day to register for my summer art classes I am excited to announce my lineup of art classes for this summer. I am holding 3 classes. Here are the details:

To register, send me an email to confirm that your child will be attending. (Rachael Boyle - rachaelboyle(at)gmail(dot)com) Please include their name and age and which class they will attend. A $30 NONREFUNDABLE deposit (per child per camp) will need to be mailed to me (please email me if you need my home address) OR delivered to my house within a WEEK after registering. The $30 will be applied to the total cost of the class, the remainder of the total cost will be due on the first day of class.

The deadline to register for ALL classes is June 4th! Don't miss out, register early!

There needs to be a minimum of 6 children registered per class otherwise I will likely cancel that particular class. So invite your friends!

On the other hand, if a camp becomes too full, I will split it and create a second group.

If your child would like to participate in one of these camps but your schedule does not allow it, please let me know. If I have enough interested children I will hold another camp at a different date.

As a side note, I will begin teaching semi-private art classes in the fall. If you are interested, please let me know.

And here's the summer camp lineup ...!

Skillful Drawing and Painting - Training The Artist's Eye I am going to tell you a secret. Shhhh. To more easily paint/draw a beautiful masterpiece of something, you need to break it up and look at it in terms of colors, shapes, and lines! Wa la! Instant success, and that's what I want to teach you in this class. What "really" makes a picture? Training the artist's eye! Acrylic paints on canvass, watercolors on cold pressed paper, and black and white charcoal/chalk on black and white drawing paper will be our tools to create our 3 masterpieces. If you attended last year, our approach will be similar to the approach we used when we painted the picture of the boat docked on the beach with the shimmering sunset. (It won't be the same photo again, but it was very helpful for the children to reference a photo.) I taught the group what to look for, then I walked around and helped each child individually. It was very successful and each child was VERY proud of their work. This class is appropriate for children 7 years of age and older. June 11, 13, and 15th, 3 days 10am - 12am each day Cost is $75 per child. Includes all materials. Child is responsible for bringing their own cover-up.

Window Splashes: Promotional Signs and Holiday Art on Home and Business Windows You know those cute holiday pictures or those neon promotional signs you see on business windows? Well I am going to show you how they're done. Window painting is super fun! But it is also takes planning and can be technical. In this class, you will use acrylic paints at first, BUT once you've practiced, you'll learn how to transfer your design to big windows and use very high quality paints (that are special ordered), expensive brushes, and very smelly chemicals like turpentine and other oil solvents. Here's the best part, we will paint Dairy Queen's windows, located on Southern Blvd., for the Fourth of July Rio Rancho parade! Everyone will see it from the road! That's right, you'll be famous! Plus, after our hard work, Dairy Queen is going to treat all of the hot and tired artist to ice-cream! This class is appropriate for children ages 8 and older and who want to be a part of something BIG! June 18-22 Time: 5pm-6:30 pm Cost is $100 per child. Includes all materials. Child is responsible for bringing their own cover-up and bottled water. More details will be emailed to those who register for this class.

Splatter, Stick, and Stain This is your get messy, make messy, messy here, messy there, messy EVERYWHERE type of camp for children who like to have fun and create. But before we start, I will read a different book at the beginning of each day that will go along with our project for that day. Your child will enjoy listening to the book and thinking outside of the box while incorporating real art skills and learning about famous artists. Everyday we will create a new piece of artwork for your child to take home and proudly display! This class is appropriate for children entering kindergarten in the fall to 8 years old. Come get your mess on with us! June 25-28 2pm-3pm Cost is $60 per child. Includes all materials. Child is responsible for bringing their own cover-up.

I can't wait! We are going to have super fun and I am looking forward to seeing all of my returning artists and new ones! Here's to splattered paint, black charcoal smudges on our faces, fingers stuck together, colored soaked cover-ups, and messy floors!

Free Summer Movies

COTTONWOOD STADIUM 16

10000 NW Coors Blvd.Albuquerque NM505-897-5919  

SEE DATES AND MOVIES

6/5-6/6 (10am)

JOURNEY 2

KIT KITTREDGE: AMER GIRL

6/12-6/13 (10am)

DOLPHIN TALE

HAPPY FEET TWO

6/19-6/20 (10am)

LEGEND OF THE GUARDIANS

YOGI BEAR

6/26-6/27 (10am)

CATS & DOGS: REVENGE

HUGO

7/3-7/4 (10am)

ADVENTURES OF TIN TIN

PUSS IN BOOTS

7/10-7/11 (10am)

KUNG FU PANDA 2

RANGO

7/17-7/18 (10am)

RIO

SPY KIDS: ALL THE TIME

7/24-7/25 (10am)

CHIMPANZEE

HOODWINKED TOO

7/31-8/1 (10am)

ARTHUR CHRISTMAS

SMURFS

Essential Oils Class

If you are interested in learning how to use essential oils, please join me for a workshop at my home. Children are welcome (in fact, the class will be based on treating childhood bumps, bruises and so forth!) The first 10 people to R.S.V.P and come will receive a 5mL bottle of Wild Orange oil. A light luncheon will be served. Let me know if you can attend.

June 15

10:30-12:30

6927 Hawkwatch Rd NW

girlpowerjedi at hotmail dot com

lunch and chatting about parenting

Mark your calendars for next Thursday, May 31st from 11:30-1:30 for a fun day at my house. We're going to have a lunch party potluck style and then chat about parenting ideas such as; teaching your kids to work (I have specific ideas for ages 2+), keeping your house clean, allowances, chores, disciplining, etc. Some people asked me some of my tricks and I'd like to hear the same from the rest of you. (I also picked Michelle English's brain many a conversation to see how that amazing woman worked and will happily spill her secrets as well.) Kids are welcome. Hope you can come! Melissa melissa dot lee dot spencer at gmail dot com

Praying in Sign Language

Yes, it's true. I wasn't gonna, but decided I am. Or at least I might.

I am considering having a week long (5 days, one hour each) crash course on praying (both signing and interpreting) in ASL. This class would be taught by me. It would be free. And it would be for anyone 12 years and older.

We would learn:
Praying Etiquette
ABC's
The words of prayer
Gospel related words
People we pray for
Other needed words
How to interpret all of these things.
Plus more....

Why prayer? I know when I went into the MTC, the first thing that we learned was to pray in sign language. It doesn't require another person to practice...well, I guess you are speaking to God so he counts, but he doesn't sign back to you. Praying is something we do everyday...multiple times. I think it is this repetition that helps us remember things. Plus it is prayer. There is some amazing power in that, right?

I am pretty sure this class can help with some Personal Progress or Duty to God/Scouting requirements. I am not quite sure why I keep feeling to do this class...my life is pretty crazy right now, but I am. So I am just going to put this out there...in case there are people interested.

So, is there anyone interested in a class like this? Would any of your kids?

Email me: stef.burns -at- gmail.com or call me 816-eight zero seven four

Piano For Sale

Jessica Sessions is moving soon and has a piano that she won't be able to take with her.  She is asking $375 OBO for it.  It has a bench and some piano books that come with it as well.  If you are interested, contact Jessica at jessica-sessions (at) hotmail (dot) com.  Or by phone at four one seven-six nine one four.

Sunshine Generation Summer Camp

Hi Friends, This is Andrea Rogers from the Ventana Ranch Ward. I'm so excited to be the director of Sunshine Generation Summer Camp. This is my 8th summer camp, and we will have a blast. When you call to reserve your spot, mention this flyer for $10 off.

Book club meeting Thursday

The weather is gorgeous and I've redone my patio furniture and strung up the gazebo lights in preparation for book club this Thursday. Didn't read the book?- no problem! Come anyway to hear more about a good book and then talk and gab with everyone as well. Bring a potluck snack to share. Book: The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks by Rebecca Skloot Time: 7:30 -11ish PM Place: Melissa S's Backyard questions? melissa dot lee dot spencer at gmail dot com See you there!

Manti Pageant Hotel Room

If anyone is planning on going to Utah this summer to see the Manti Pageant, Judy Tye has a motel reservation that she will no longer be using.  The motel is called the Manti Motel, it is one block from the pageant, and it is reserved for one night (June 21st).  The cost of the room is $99.19.  Staying in a motel this close to the Pageant is the way to go avoid all the traffic afterwards! If you are interested, please contact Judy Tye for more information (her phone number is in the ward directory).  She needs to know by May 30th since she will have to cancel the room by then for a full refund.  Thanks!

Youth Nights at the Santa Fe Opera

The Santa Fe opera is doing their youth nights again this summer. I went last year because I've ALWAYS wanted to go the Santa Fe Opera and this is an affordable way to do it, plus expose your kids to great music. (I was so impressed, by the way. This opera is world famous and worth going to at least once in your life-time.) Here's the deal- they have two nights that are available for the shows. They're doing "Tosca" Monday June 25th and "The Pearl Fishers" on Tuesday June 26th. (These are dress rehearsals but I couldn't tell that it was one last time- they ran straight through perfectly). The cost is $16 for adults and $8 for kids. Here's a catch- you have to buy tickets in packages (1 adult, 2 kids or 2 adults, 3 kids with extra kid tickets available..... you must bring the kids ages 6+.)You have to buy your tickets over the phone by calling 1-800-280-4654. Plus they offer a free chartered bus ride to and from the ABQ Lowe's on 1-25 at Paseo. (Space is limited and you have to reserve your seats by speaking with the people at the ABQ opera guild at 792-6869 x. 104) The bus I believe leaves ABQ around 5 PM and brings you back around midnight. There are picnic tables up there and we brought a dinner to eat alfresco. There is also a great pre-show talk that is kid friendly that helps them know what the show is about. Also, there are little screens by each seat that translate what they're singing into English. The opera is an open air theater and the shows start at sundown, around 9 PM. There are more details here at http://www.santafeopera.org/communityactivities/youthprograms/youthnights.aspx Advice- read the opera synopses on their website before you choose which one you want to see. My girls LOVED going last year and we're planning on doing the Tuesday show this year if anyone else wants to tag along. Questions? email me at melissa dot lee dot spencer at gmail dot com

Eagle Project!!!

Jarod's Eagle Project is tomorrow.  We are meeting at the church at 8:30 or at Galloping Grace Youth Ranch at 9:00.  For Jarod's Eagle project, we desperately need cordless drills that have hexagon tips for screws. The sizes needed are 1/4 and 5/16. Anyone who has these, please contact Jarod at 899-2736

Summer Art Classes

Hi! My name is Rachael B. and I'm in the Ventana Ward. I have offered art classes in the past and am excited to announce my new lineup of art classes for this summer. I am holding 3 classes. Here are the details:

To register, send me an email to confirm that your child will be attending. (Rachael Boyle - rachaelboyle(at)gmail(dot)com) Please include their name and age and which camp they will attend. A $30 NONREFUNDABLE deposit (per child per camp) will need to be mailed to me (please email me if you need my home address) OR delivered to my house within a WEEK after registering. The $30 will be applied to the total cost of the class, the remainder of the total cost will be due on the first day of class.

The deadline to register for ALL classes is June 4th! Don't miss out, register early!

There needs to be a minimum of 6 children per class otherwise I will likely cancel that particular class. So invite your friends!

On the other hand, if a camp becomes too full, I will split it and create a second group.

If your child would like to participate in one of these camps but your schedule does not allow it, please let me know. If I have enough interested children I will hold another camp at a different date.

As a side note, I will begin teaching semi-private art classes in the fall. If you are interested, please let me know.

And here's the summer camp lineup ...!


Skillful Drawing and Painting - Training The Artist's Eye

I am going to tell you a secret. Shhhh. To more easily paint/draw a beautiful masterpiece of something, you need to break it up and look at it in terms of colors, shapes, and lines! Wa la! Instant success, and that's what I want to teach you in this class. What "really" makes a picture? Training the artist's eye!

This class is appropriate for children 7 years of age and older. Acrylic paints on canvass, watercolors on cold pressed paper, and black and white charcoal/chalk on black and white drawing paper will be our tools to create our 3 masterpieces. (We will create a new piece each day.)

If you attended last year, our approach will be similar to the approach we used when we painted the picture of the boat docked on the beach with the shimmering sunset. (It won't be the same photo again, but it was very helpful for the children to reference a photo.) I taught the group what to look for, then I walked around and helped each child individually. It was very successful and each child was VERY proud of their work.

Referencing photos does not take away any art skills. You will still learn special art techniques and skills of drawing and painting.

June 11, 13, and 15th, 3 days

10am - 12am each day

Cost is $75 per child. Includes all materials. Child is responsible for bringing their own cover-up.


Window Splashes: Promotional Signs and Holiday Art on Home and Business Windows

This is the first time that I will be holding a camp like this, I am really excited! I have pulled a few strings and your kids should have a great experience. This class is appropriate for children ages 8 and older and who want to be a part of something BIG!

Window painting can be fun! But it is also hard, takes planning, can be technical, and as the painter, you're either freezing in the winter months or frying in front of the windows when the temperatures start to rise, even slightly!

Results: your super cool mural size work is seen by everyone and you feel very proud!

I will teach you how to create a window design that is appealing to customers (or great for your home). You will use acrylic paints at first, BUT once you've practiced, you'll learn how to transfer your design to big windows. Then we'll use very high quality paints (that I special order), expensive brushes, and very smelly chemicals like turpentine and other oil solvents.

Here's the best part, we will paint Dairy Queen's windows, located on Southern Blvd., for the Fourth of July Rio Rancho parade! Everyone will see it from the road! That's right, you'll be famous! After our hard work, Dairy Queen is going to treat all of the hot and tired artist to ice-cream!

Check out www.windowpaintingpro.blogspot.com to get a feel for what we will be doing.

If I have a lot of children sign up for this camp, we will split into groups and have different painting times at Dairy Queen. (There are lots of windows to paint - no one will get shorted!)

June 18-22

Time: 5pm-6:30 pm
Painting on windows in the summer is ridiculously hot! I am doing this as an evening class so that we won't fry like grasshoppers under a magnifying glass (not that I did that as a kid). The hours will stay in the evening, but I may tweak them a bit here and there.

Cost is $100 per child. Includes all materials. Child is responsible for bringing their own cover-up and bottled water.


More details will be emailed to those who register for this class.


Splatter, Stick, and Stain

This is your get messy, make messy, messy here, messy there, messy EVERYWHERE type of camp for children who like to have fun and create. But before we start, I will read a different book at the beginning of each day that will go along with our project for that day. Your child will enjoy listening to the book and thinking outside of the box while incorporating real art skills and learning about famous artists. Everyday we will create a new piece of artwork for your child to take home and proudly display!

This class is appropriate for children ages 4-8 years old. Come get your mess on with us!

June 25-28

2pm-3pm

Cost is $60 per child. Includes all materials. Child is responsible for bringing their own cover-up.


I can't wait! We are going to have super fun and I am looking forward to seeing all of my returning artists and new ones! Here's to splattered paint, black charcoal smudges on our faces, fingers stuck together, colored soaked cover-ups, and messy floors!

book club location

Darbie W. has graciously offered her home (and her services as discussion leader) for the book club meeting on Thursday starting at 7:30. Come ready to discuss "The Forgotten Garden".

need a host/discussion leader for Book Club Thursday

There is a Stake Auxillary training meeting this Thursday night and Emily H. has to be there for it (as do I for music....)
Is anyone willing to host the book club meeting at their home on Thursday and/or lead the discussion? The book is The Forgotten Garden.
Email me back ASAP if so.
melissa dot lee dot spencer at gmail dot com
Thanks,
Melissa

Eagle Scout Needs Help!

I’m Jarod Huckabay and I’m working on my Eagle Scout Project.

I’m making a petting zoo and shelters for rescue animals at Galloping Grace Youth Ranch in Rio Rancho. They have ducks, goats, and chickens. The kids that go there will be able to see the animals and interact with them. The pens that the animals are in do not have a roof. These animals need to be protected from the elements as well from other wild animals.

In order to protect the ducks, chickens, and goats I will need 280 square feet of metal roofing. I also need 20 six foot poles for fencing to make a larger safer area for the goats and protect the trees that are in the petting zoo area from the goats. I need to raise the money to purchase the materials I need to do this project. I am willing to do yard work, baby sitting, or other things to raise the money. Could you please help me? Please call me at 899-2736.

Lost Gospel Art Kit

The Thielemier's have lost our gospel art picture kit. We think we might have left it in the nursery room across the hall from the mother's room by the relief society room a few weeks ago. It's the whole kit in the blue box with the flap that folds over and velcros. If anyone has found it you can reach us at shay(underscore)bee(at)

hotmail(dot)com or our number is in the directory. Thank you!

Pass of all Passes

I know there are a lot of us that travel to Utah to visit family.  Today on citydeals.com there is a voucher for only $10 a person that gets you into Seven Peaks, Trafalga and many other places for unlimited visits for 1 year.  If you only took your family to one of them, it would totally pay for itself.  I don't know how long this deal will last, so hurry fast!

http://www.citydeals.com/seven-peaks-slc-poap-9-99-deal.html?location=5816

Thinking outside the box...actually just thinking about the box

Hello friends!

I am in need of boxes. Packing boxes. Actually they can be any kind of box, I will just call them packing boxes. No, not to store my children in when they are bad...although.... ahem. Nope. Not for that. Never for that.

We are going to be moving in a few months and I thought that I would get a little head start. Ha, who amd I kidding. It is really going to take me 2 months to get all our stuff in boxes...not including kids. Never that. Nope, never.

So if you have some boxes you are not stuffing your own children into wanting to give up, let me know. Brian would be happy to pick them up. (See how I did that...conveniently sluffed off that responsibility to him. I can teach you how to do that without any guilt. Just saying.)

stef.burns at gmail.com.  Or you can call me...if you have my number.

Sweet! Thanks!!

Books and Cheese

Barbara Kingsolver inspired me and I got all the supplies to make our own mozzarella cheese at the next book club meeting. I am not promising anything but we'll see how easy it really is. Thanks to Frances C. of the Ventana Ward for offering up her home and kitchen as the location of our book club meeting this Thursday starting at 7:30 PM. We're discussing "Animal Vegetable Miracle" by Kingsolver. Come if you'd like to see how to make Mozzarella as well as discuss your own personal food and eating guidelines. This should be a VERY interesting discussion that you won't want to miss.
See you there,
Melissa
melissa dot lee dot spencer at gmail dot com

home for rent in Ventana Ranch

*available April 15th

3 Bedrooms

2 Bathrooms

2 Car Garage

Corner Lot (only one neighbor)

Fireplace (wood and gas burning)

Stainless Steel Appliances (dishwasher, stove and microwave included)

Covered Patio and Landscaped Backyard

Including Fruit tress, large grass area and raised garden beds

Call Chelsie 505-301-7673 for more information.

Pottery Classes

(click image)

St. Patricks Day Potluck!

Where: Ventana Ranch park (NEW park by Walgreens!)

When: March 17th 5:00

Please bring: potluck dish, drinks for your family

For those that will be in town this weekend, I thought it would be fun to have a green potluck!  Bring something green or St. Patrick's themed (IE rainbow, clover-shaped) to share.  Get creative!  It doesn't have to be green!  Since I don't have much time to organize this, please e-mail me ASAP if you would like to come and what dish (or ask me what we still need) so I can make sure we have some variety and so I know how many plates/forks we need!  Thanks and hope to see you there!

foreverfamilee at gmail dot com
-Kristie L.

Book club for March

Quick reminder- book club will meet 1 week later than usual this month due to Spring Break. You've still got time to go and grab a copy of "Animal, Vegetable, Miracle" by Barbara Kingsolver for our meeting on Thursday, March 22nd at 7:30 PM.
Location to be confirmed.
Thanks,
Melissa

Swap Anyone??

Spring is here and it's time for that Spring Cleaning! A few sister's in the ward have mentioned that they have several bags of stuff ready to take to Goodwill, but would much rather just give it to someone for free if they wanted it. So we got thinking...why not bring it to the Relief Society Activity on Saturday and have it free for the taking after the Brunch is over? If you are interested, bring any gently used clothing (babies to adults, boys, girls, whatever!) and/or small household items and we will set up a couple tables in the gym when the activity is over for all of the treasures and anyone is welcome to browse and take whatever they want or need. If you have any questions, you can call Marjorie Sprague or email me at crescentmarchant (at) gmail (dot) com.

Summer Art Classes for Children and Teenagers

We have taken classes from Rachel the past two summers and they are amazing! Here is a message she asked me to post for her.

I'm in the Ventana Ward but wanted to spread the word to your ward as well that I will be teaching art classes again this summer. First, I want to get a feel for who is interested, what your summer schedules will be like (as far as traveling), and what type of classes you are interested in. The past few summers I have taught several classes but I don't think I am going to hold that many again this summer. Therefore, I want to create classes that will appeal to the majority. Hopefully I can accommodate most; unfortunately, it is impossible to accommodate everyone.

Please email me at rachaelboyle(at)gmail(dot)com

Thanks, Rachael Boyle

My niece Brooke Acton from the Taylor Ranch ward is working on collecting modest prom dresses that other young women in Albuquerque can wear to dances.  A young woman did this in another state see lds.org "A winning prom dress."  If you have dresses to donate you can call her or me (Leah Acton).

Friday night meeting in Rio Rancho

For those who don't know...  it is the Stake Center out by Rio Rancho High School (Loma Colorado area)

( For the full details, read Melissa'a post below)

Friday night meeting in Rio Rancho

Friday night meeting in Rio Rancho
A little birdie told me that the meeting on Friday Night at 7 PM at San Victorio building will be broadcast to the Rio Rancho Stake Center.... which is a much shorter drive and has more parking...
The birdie shall remain anonymous and you didn't hear it from me....
Just thought I'd pass it along in case the drive and distance were hindering your desire/ability to go hear these general authorities.

American Fork - Lehi Area

I am looking for anyone going through this area that might be able to pick up some Lehi Roller Mill White Wheat for me.  We really like this brand of wheat, but we are almost out.  They sell it both at Lehi Roller Mill and at some Costcos.  I could also have my Sister in law pick some up that lives in AF and you could get it from her.  Let me know if you are going that direction.  Thanks!

March Recipe group

Mark your calendars.  TUES MARCH 6th is our next recipe group. The theme is Italian. Bring your best meatballs, pizza, lasagna, pasta dish, or gelato recipe. If you want, you can even experiment with a new one. It will be held at my house (Jenny Ch. ) at 12:30pm.

Right after recipe group, we will be holding our book club. We are combining again due to spring break in March. The book is Crash by Jerry Spinelli

Come at 12:30 for some yummy food and stay for book club or come late if you just want to discuss. Either way, I hope to see you you there.

Eagle Project

Request for Help

            Hi, my name is Brendan Rossiter and I am in the Volcano Cliffs ward, I am 17 about to turn 18 and working on my eagle project. I am fixing up a backyard of a Women's Housing Coalition for the children who reside with their moms there. I am asking for some donations, whether it is backyard toys for the children or a lightly used playground or even parts of playgrounds such as swings to help refurbish an old one already located at the housing coalition. Any donations or help would be much appreciated.

            If you would like to help or can donate something, please contact me at (505) 301-0581 or by email at rossiterbcr@yahoo.com   or   gehreh@sbcglobal.net

 Thank You

free rose pruning class

My roses are starting to bud, which means NOW is the perfect time to trim them back so they'll grow effectively and bloom beautifully this summer. I love roses and have spent some time learning how to prune them.
If you'd like to know more about how to care better for your rose bushes please come to my free rose pruning class.
When: this Friday, February 10th from 11-12:30 at my house. You're welcome to bring your kids and let them play in the yards while we have our class. If you'd like, pack a picnic lunch and we'll schmooze after the class.
What to bring: THICK garden gloves (leather is best) if you have them, pruning shears and large pruning clippers if you'd like to practice hands on (I have A LOT of rose bushes to practice on.)
Send me an email at melissa dot lee dot spencer at gmail dot com if you need directions or have questions.
Happy flowering!
Melissa
PS This would be a easy way to invite your neighbors to come learn and fellowship with us!

American Mothers Inc.

American Mothers Inc. is wanting to start a chapter out here in Albuquerque.

What is American Mothers Inc. ?

American Mothers is an inter-faith, non-political, non-profit organization that continues to recognize the invaluable contribution mothers make to the future success and happiness of children and society. It is an organization comprised of women and men who are interested in the preservation of families and in strengthening the moral and spiritual foundations of the family and home.

Check out their web site if this interest you. Americanmothersinc.org

My mother is the "Mother of the Year" from Texas and I have been at my sisters home a couple of times when they have had their monthly meeting, which is about a hour long. They share stories, recipes, parenting ideas and have fun work shops for moms. It was really a fun time to get together with other mothers.

If this is something you would be interested in please contact me at gehreh@gmail(dot)com and I will get you involved with the area coordinator Mary Compton she is looking for some moms out here who might be interested in starting a chapter.

Rebecca H.

Fan the Flame Activity

Hey everyone! We are looking forward to this up coming activity...Fan the Flame. It will be held at the Sprague home (5405 Arabian Dr.) on Feb. 3rd @ 6:30pm. This will be a fun, no pressure, hands on activity where you get to visit with each other and brainstorm ideas if want. (and yes there will be light refreshments!) There are lots of items that we will be talking about and several that we will actually be making! These are inexpensive, fun ideas you can make for yourself or give as gifts (all are around $3). Come join us and enjoy an evening together. Whether you sign up to make something or not, whether you bring a friend or not, it doesn't matter...we would love to have you there!!

The Ward Welfare Committee

CLOTHES & CAR SEAT

My mother-in-law recently gave me a huge bin of clothes that are like new.  She has lost a bunch of weight and can't wear them anymore.  These clothes are sizes 2X and 3X and some are women's petite.  If you are interested or know anyone who might be interested in these really nice clothes please let me know as I am giving them away.  I will keep them 2 more weeks before giving them to Goodwill.

I also have a nice used car seat that faces frontwards and backwards to give away. 

Call Marlene.

Girl Scout Cookies!

Cookie time, cookie time! If you are interested in purchasing girl scout cookies, please let us know. Halayna O. would love to sell you some. Cookies ordered now will be delivered the second week of March. Payment is due at the time of delivery. Cookies are $3.75 a box. Thanks!

Books for reading through May

Thanks for the excellent meeting on Thursday. It was a great discussion and get together. Thanks also to Darbie who hosted and led the discussion.
As discussed, below are the next books we'll be reading. Reminder; book club is set for the 3rd Thursday of the month at 7:30 (unless specified)
February 16th- Pope Joan; a novel by Donna Woolfolk Cross at Chelsey J's house
March 22nd (will be the 4th Thursday this month due to APS spring break); Animal, Vegetable, Miracle: a year of food life by Barbara Kingsolver at Frances C's house
April 19th- The Forgotten Garden by Kate Morton at Emily H's house
May 17th- The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks by Rebecca Skloot in Melissa S's backyard

Here's to happy reading.
Melissa

Little Women discussion Thursday PM

We're meeting this Thursday night at 7:30 at Darbie W's home to discuss "Little Women". FYI Next month's book is "Pope Joan" by Donna Cross.
Hope to see you then.
Need directions? email at melissa dot lee dot spencer at gmail dot com

composting

Judy Tye wants to know if anyone in our ward does compostoing and can teach her how to use her new composter. Her number is 898-9224

Project 365?

Is anyone else in the ward doing the Project 365 (or Project life)? This is a movement to take 1 picture and journal once a day about your life. I'm just curious...
melissa dot lee dot spencer at gmail dot com

participants for HealthMiles for Sandia

I'm wanting to know who out there (Sandia employees and spouses) are doing the HealthMiles program? Send me an email at melissa dot lee dot spencer at gmail dot com.
I'd like to do challenges together since that's a great way to easily earn more miles/HRA bucks.

Convert Baptism

Jessica Sessions will be baptized this Saturday, January 14th. The baptism will take place at the Seven-Bar Stake Center at 7:30 PM. All are invited to attend and suppport Jessica in this special event.

Trampoline for sale

Trampoline for sale with net enclosure. It is under 2 years old and in good condition. $150. Let me know if you are interested by Wed (January 11). aaronandjenparkin{at}yahoo{dot}com.

Piano lessons?

Anyone in the ward give piano lessons or know of a teacher willing to take a three year old? If so, email juliembarnes (at) gmail

Babysitters?

Sister Megan in our ward needs to find a babysitter to tend her two small children while she works evenings. Her husband is in school and usually tends them but this semester has classes that conflict. Anyone wanting to earn a little money and help them out?

Terri

for Sandia Nat'l Labs spouses

For all spouses of Sandia Nat'l Lab employees:

If you're interested in joining in on the Virgin HealthMiles program (and thereby potentially earning an extra $250 into next year's HRA fund) Jon C found the link to the sign-up page. (FYI It's not easy finding this on your own)

http://www.virginhealthmiles.com/join/product.aspx?pid=1155705

The first “Click here” link is where you’ll want to click. It’s nice that the HealthMiles and pedometer are free as well. However, keep in mind that spouses will now have to complete an annual online health assessment in order to get the $250 SNL HRA contribution.

I'd be happy to help you sign up if you're having problems.
Melissa dot lee dot spencer at gmail dot com

Piano for Professional Moms

A new semester will begin on January 31. Join us as we study one of the greatest composers of all time! Each week we will study one of his songs in detail (why he wrote it, how he wrote it, etc.) Tuition includes a workbook of songs from a 2A level up to a level 4 book. (What does that mean?? That means the songs include eigth notes and may include sixteenth notes, and are written in keys other than C so you will have some sharps and flats to review!)

• January 31 9:30-10:30
• February 28 9:30-10:30
• March 27 9:30-10:30
• April 24 9:30-10:30
• May 22 9:30-10:30

Tuition is $50, and is due January 17. Classes include yummy treats and good fun. Please e-mail me if interested. girlpowerjedi (at) hotmatil (dot) com

$10 Dollars free to plumdistrict

Plumdistrict is a new website that does Daily Deals and I have 13 $10 Dollar shopping cards to their site.  If you are interested and want $10 bucks, free; email me at juliembarnes (at) gmail and I will send you the code. 

Baby Shower!!

Holly Yorgason is having a baby GIRL!!! Come celebrate with us! Saturday, January 7th at 2 pm. If you are interested in helping with food, please contact me at crescentmarchant {at} gmail {dot} com. Thanks!!