Catchin' Up

It's been a busy week or two at the Smith house. Last weekend we went to Idaho to visit my family. It was good to see my dad settled in his new home. Even though his health is failing, he was in good spirits! It was also good to see my mom taking care of him. We took both my mom and dad out for breakfast...at 8 am...because that's when my dad eats breakfast ;)



The people at my dad's rest home were very nice and accomidating of a wiggly four year old. aka Brinley Ruth Smith. One lady in particular made friends with Brin. Brin sat on her lap and they discussed clothing and dance moves, Brinley showed her several of her "tricks" (which are a series of jumps and twirls). The elderly lady would clap and tell her "how cute!" At this point in the story, I should mention that the lady is of Japanese decsent...and at one point I thought I overheard Brinley say, "hey your eyes go like this..." but I hoped with all my heart that I did not hear correctly! On our way back to mom's I mentioned what I "thought" I heard to Brad. He said, "Nope, I heard it too!" Guess we need to work on cultural differences in Family Home Evening!



Here is a picture I got of my dad and the girls.
It's hard to see your parents health deteriorate. I look at the man who was my provider, protector and advocate for 20 years. He seems so small and frail. It made me so sad to leave. It was hard. I was surprised at how bad I felt leaving him. For one moment, I wanted to live in Idaho so I could be closer. I hope this doesn't get back to my sister's or brother...but I know I am my dad's favorite. He is the one person I never have to TRY to impress, because he thinks I am "wonderful"...His "wonderful daughter, Michelle" That line is a HUGE joke in my family...but I treasure that knowledge and know that no mattter what he is always proud of me.


Later that day we met Brad's dad, Richard and Mindy for lunch...Brinley was so worn out she fell asleep at the table over her mac and cheese. Unfortunately I left my camera in the van, so I didn't get a picture.


I have been sticking to my resolution and trying new recipes. Here is my review of what I have made:
1. stuffed pork chops. I got this recipe from a simple and delicious magazine. I have always wanted to try stuffed chops, and this did not disappoint! It was yummy. Emily even ate the spinach stuffing! (Brin not so much)


2. Cranberry Bliss Bar. I found this copy-cat recipe two years ago on the web. It is a knock off of the cranberry bar starbuck's sells at christmas. OH MY!!! It was sooooo good. Its kind of like a blondie, with a lemony topping. I could have eaten the whole pan...but didn't since I am watching what I eat.

3. An artichoke chicken dish from a Cuisine magazine. Brad really liked this, I thought it was ok. The recipe had honey in it and I am not a fan of sweet tasting chicken or meat. In my book, meat should be savory!