New Products and Cooking Shows in South Dakota

Grand Prairie's "Start Healthy" Brand is now in Sioux Falls Hy-Vee Stores

• Start Healthy Turkey Bacon, Egg and Cheese Muffin
• Start Healthy Turkey Sausage, Egg  Cheese Muffin
• Start Healthy Canadian-Style Turkey Bacon, Egg & Cheese Muffin

• Upcoming Taste of Home Cooking Shows:

Aberdeen  5/9

Dakota Event Center

720 Lamont Street  

Cedar Shore Resort  5/11

1500 Shoreline Drive

Oacoma SD 57365 

Watertown Event Center  5/14

1901 9th Avenue SW

Watertown SD 57201 

Four Sculptures at the Washington Pavilion to Feb. 23rd

Basketball at Central Baptist

Sundays, Family Life Center Gym 1-3 p.m. - start with a stretch!

Play against the dads - nothing can be funner!  There's no cost.

Hear a devotional together.  Just come - parent & child practice time.

 

Fun Can Art Event in Sioux Falls

AIGA South Dakota is accepting registrations for teams to participate in
our ‘artistic’ food drive, to benefit Feeding South Dakota. Teams will collect non-
perishable food items and use them to build a sculpture of their choice. The “Can
Art” will be on display at The Washington Pavilion February 16-24, 2013. All food
items will be donated to Feeding South Dakota at the end of the event.

Visit CanArtSD.com for more information and to register your team. www.CanArtSD.com

Art makes a BIG difference in fighting hunger. This is the second year we are
hosting the event. After the first “Can Art” event, we were able to donate 4,787
pounds of food to Feeding South Dakota – that's 2.4 TONS of food that
helped our community! Our goal for the second year is to top that number!  The cost is $25.00 per time, plus canned items.

Scripture reference for sharing with the hungry below...

“Is not this the kind of fasting I have chosen:
to loose the chains of injustice
    and untie the cords of the yoke,
to set the oppressed free
    and break every yoke?
⁷ Is it not to share your food with the hungry
    and to provide the poor wanderer with shelter—
when you see the naked, to clothe them,
    and not to turn away from your own flesh and blood?
⁸ Then your light will break forth like the dawn,
    and your healing will quickly appear;
then your righteousness^[a] will go before you,
    and the glory of the Lord will be your rear guard.
⁹ Then you will call, and the Lord will answer;
    you will cry for help, and he will say: Here am I. Isaiah 58:6-9

Cupcake Wars & Prayer Victories

One hour in prayer could seem like a lot of time, or it could seem like an easy hour to add into your day.  Regardless of how you see it, the effects of prayer are powerful, and this event will give women an opportunity to think about being part of a weekly prayer group for their children and schools.

In Sioux Falls there are groups representing several public and private schools, as well as Grandmas praying for their grandchildren.  We do not have any homeschooling groups at the moment - but we are excited to offer a training for new leaders following the program on January 24th.  If the weather isn't cooperative, this event will be held the following day. There will be an actual Cupcake War between All-City Elementary and Discovery Elementary groups.  Come taste and see that the Lord is good - and hear more about this wonderful ministry!

A Japanese Christmas Part 2

Hot chocolate after ice skating

My mom came to help the welcome chair!

Hiroshi and his Sioux Falls "Large"

The girls made a sign together

Andrew made his on LightBright

Last minute decor!

Boone & Scenic Valley Railroad

The other day I was looking through photos and videos.  I was already excited for summertime.  Going to Boone, Iowa, was a great time with my mom, Mel and our kids.  We went on a "Dessert Train" ride and my mom brought a deck of cards and a few books to read to the kids.  It was a great day for getting outside and taking photos.  Since you're on a train, even in hot temps, it's fine to go out and take a few snapshots as the train is moving along.

Kate Shelley's biography was appropriate for a train ride!

 

The Dessert Train features First Class service in climate controlled comfort aboard the

historic "City of San Francisco" or "City of Los Angeles" cars.  You can enjoy a beverage,  light snack, and scrumptious dessert during your two hour ride through the  Des Moines River Valley. Prices range from $20-24.00.

From their webside, I noticed that right now they have a few openings for their Christmas tour!   The ride departs from the Boone and Scenic Valley Railroad depot, located at 225 10th Street  in Boone, travels to the "North Pole", and returns. On board, you will: sing Christmas carols,  hear the story of "Santa's Scenic Valley Ride", be served hot chocolate and a cookie,  greet Santa, and receive a silver bell.   http://www.scenic-valleyrr.com/

Boo in the Neighborhood

So a lot of Sioux Falls neighborhoods have "Boo" signs in their windows.  If you're neighborhood doesn't, this is what it's all about.  

The air is cool, the season fall,

Soon Halloween will come to all...

The spirit of the neighborhood is wishing you well,

As someone has selected you to hear this tale.

The treat comes to neighbors like you

When you copy this note (and make it two!)

Then others here among our friends

Will give warm fuzzies that soon won't end.

No one who will know who “Boo'd” whose places,

But we'll all have smiles on our faces.

Just two short days to plant your basket

You've got time, no need to panic!

And don't forget a nifty treat,

Like something cute or something sweet!

Please join the fun and let's hear it--

Spread some “Boo!” and Halloween spirit!

Your task:

1. Enjoy your treat!
2. Hang your “Boo! Sign up on your front door
3. You have 2 days to copy this twice, make 2 treats and 2 “Boo!” signs
4. Secretly deliver to 2 neighbors who do not have a “Boo!” sign
5. If you don't wish to participate, hang up the “Boo!” sign so others don't think you've been ignored and “Boo!” you again.
6. Watch how far it spreads!

The Lord is good to all. Ps. 145:9

Blog Party Plans

Friday, November 9th at 6 p.m.

Please mark your calendars for 

the 10,000 Views Party

It will include a nutrition presentation on 10 healthy foods
(just to inspire you - not to make you feel guilty!)

Families are welcome.  Food sampling, book discussions, sharing tips - RSVP if you plan to come.
Don't leave Sioux Falls...come to my house instead!

Invited by Chili

   What a beautiful couple of days to kick off October.  We'll likely be going to this Chili Cook Off coming up on October 18th.

When I first came to Sioux Falls, the Ministry Center was the home to Stewart's School.  I'd drive downtown for color and a cut and that's back when my hair was long and it would take hours.

 



The other two photos were from my drive home over the weekend.  I shot the one inside the gas station accidentally, but decided the shadows were interesting and I enjoyed the photo afterall.

The "fresh bananas 89 cents" was taken on purpose.  I loved the contrast here, the ironic combination of the sign, the bananas.

Working on a few books, but haven't finished them yet.  Hope to post with in the next few weeks.  Until then, got a few kiddos who need to get healthy...might have some time to sit and relax together.  Pray for all of them, 3 viruses that don't seem to want to go away, Olana's cough has been pesky for the last two weeks.

Pomegranate Market Classes

I happened to be talking about inflammation with a friend over my drive to Alexandria ~ and then today in my inbox was the following class schedule for Pomegranate Market. October 6th: Inflammation and Disease. Discover the many causes and symptoms of inflammation and how they relate to disease and illness. Learn how to fight inflammation with the foods you eat and herbal supplementation. October 13th: Gluten Free 101. Learn about the health benefits of a gluten free diet and the easy steps you can start making today to live gluten free. Also, as well as going to Pomegranate, check out prices on www.vitacost.com as a $49.00 order means free shipping to your door.  They have 100% satisfaction guarantee. October 20th: Cancer Prevention with Dr. Neil of Maximized Living. Cancer is the leading cause of death world wide. Learn what you can do to prevent cancer and increase your potential for healing. Shop with the doctor to learn the top 10 cancer fighting foods! October 27th: Juicing to Boost Your Immune System. Discover how you can prevent illness this winter season with the benefits of whole foods in delicious and fresh juice recipes. Power your body with disease fighting vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants!

Welcome Home

I left Friday morning at 8:30 a.m. and arrived back home last night at 5:30 p.m.  It's been awhile since I've "retreated" for an entire weekend!  I was able to attend Moms in Prayer's "Come to Me" event in Alexandria, Minnesota on Lake Geneva.  It was beautiful there, but I was so blessed to see my family and be welcomed home.  I am basking in the randomness of a Monday with Andrew home sick, but have enjoyed his company (I flash back to four years ago when we had days at home as he was in preschool).  

Chad begins a new job at Reliamax on Wednesday.  I grabbed a few things the kids made for him from the boxes waiting to be transported.  Then I sorted through some business cards in my purse and ran by the website of an artist we'd admired while on vacation in Colorado.  Hi name is Michael Raaum and his style reminds me of my daughter Sierra's spacial use and color choices.  I hope she grows up to be a lot like him!  (see the photo in the gallery!!!)

Before I go, I just wanted to record my welcome home.  Andrew greeted me with open arms saying, "Mom, I missed you!"

Sierra prayed, "Thank you for Mom's safe trip home and that we can see her."  When I went to make dinner, Chad offered to cook up the macaroni & cheese.  I told him I could make it, and he said, "No. You can relax with the kids."  The kids said, "No...she hasn't cooked in awhile, she wants to do it!!!"
I think they may have missed my cooking too.

Wrapped up the evening with another Ken Davis comedy video.  Good thing he just released another one, cuz we've watched them all now!  Our favorite so far has been "Together Again."

Michael Rauum

Raymond's Garden by Michael Raaum

Fun Friday

Beings we're feeling like prairie women on the west side of Sioux Falls, the girls had fun taking photos with our neighbor's cowgirl boots on!  The girls would like to know what your favorites are, and there are more pictures of Sierra because it was at night...not before school!  I'm going to get one of both of the girls and frame them side by side.

10,000 Views

 Some people can run a 10K, and Minnesota's the land of 10,000 lakes, but I am on the lookout  

for 10,000 views of www.easyreadingpicks.blogspot.com. 

Locally, I'd like to host a "Cheers to the Blessings of Internet" party when I'm there.  I love how reading online helps moms stay connected when they're cooking and cleaning and dreaming up ideas to teach and bless their families.  I enjoy the spiritual inspiration coming from Christian friends.

  This is a chart of how a few posts can spike up readership.  So, play along, and let me know what I should write about.  I'm thinking I'll do a few more reviews on favorite books and possibly a writing update.  The hope is to reach 10,000 by November.  

Parties I have yet to host

To do...party!!!

Kite flying and picnic together

This is my country (heritage sharing) for 4th of July

I once was a.... (and bring a photo of when you were doing that activity)

Crazy Date Party where we decorate our partner's faces, write down a story from when we were dating and don't reveal our identity, make up a new dance

School days party, preschool clay, elementary wheelbarrow races, high school sports drills, cheer routine and name that tune from 90's/80's...make a list of three things you did in school & guess, college read an article and discuss its merit, "future" dance

Asian - leave shoes at the door, use paper fans and make origami, pan to do your own stir fry and chopsticks as well as themed music

The Art of MarriageGetting to the Heart of God's design This six session video series brings together some of the most respected and influential pastors and experts on marriage and family all in one setting. It also brings a fresh approach to a video event by weaving together some of the following elements to help couples fully experience God's design for marriage: Central Baptist Church 3100 W Ralph Rogers Rd Sioux Falls, SD 57108 February 3-4, 2012 605.336.3378 Event Details Location: Central Baptist Church Dates: Friday, Feb 3 2012, 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM Saturday, Feb 4 2012, 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM Address: 3102 W. Ralph Rogers Rd, Sioux Falls, SD 57108 Directions: Google, Yahoo, Bing, MapQuest Contact: 501.626.6353, tsteele@familylife.com Food Details: The cost of the weekend includes a catered lunch on Saturday and breakout snacks and beverages. Child Care: Childcare will be provided FREE for registered guests; however registration is needed. Please register your child(ren) with an email to Sheila Steele (familyofsteele@gmail.com) with their names and ages. Capacity: 100 Couples Special Instructions: The Art of Marriage consists of six video sessions and an accompanying manual that provides couples with projects to help apply the principles taught during each session. This fast-paced, engaging, dramatic video event is both fun and challenging at the same time. This 24-hour event is open to married and premarried couples; even singles will appreciate this glimpse into married life. The manual is also designed for couples to use after the event by offering articles, date night ideas, and useful tips for continuing to strengthen their marriage. Please consider joining us!  You'll love it! Register @ https://cbcsiouxfalls.webconnex.com/AOM Childcare will be provided FREE for registered guests; however registration is needed.  Details are found on the registration page. Lunch on Saturday and breakout snacks/beverages will be provided and are part of the event fee - $50/couple.

Compliments of Worship Life Camp

Sierra is going to replicate the Rice Krispy Pops she made - I loved the foam & ribbon display made for them.

My group of girls made the cookies in between with the mini chocolate chips & lozza frosting!  The theme of their camp was the 7 days of creation, and Sierra said that the rice pops signify the earth, water covering and the sprinkles are us!  Plus she told me her favorite foods are 1) Mac & Cheese 2) Pizza 3) Rice Krispy Pops - they even qualify for her top three.

 The photography around the church was truly inspiring for me.  A lot of them captured the plaques that   had scriptures on them, flowers and sunshine streaming through the trees.

The landscape paintings were full of technique...and aren't the animals cute?

 Sierra was one of the bigger girls in the back row (she has one year left of Worship Life Camp).  The chorus of "In Wonder" by the Newsboys was captured in rapid movements.  I really appreciated hearing all of the words to this song as I'd missed more than I'd realized in listening to it at home.

This is Andrew's cartoon.  It says, "No shooting pigs" on the sign.  The alien is going to shoot the pig.  "Don't shoot me!" cries the pig.  The airplane can shoot the alien.  There isn't a connection to faith as far as I can tell, but I know his instructor humored him everyday. Andrew said he made it on his no-assignment "free" draw. Let me know if you figure something out.  

www.easyreadingpicks.blogspot.com