Whenever you think it could not be any worse you discover someone who has made the most of the cards dealt to them. This is a very funny comedy routine & inspirational message from a quadriplegic on a respirator. He really puts my life in perspective, how about yours?
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
Hey Mister, What Happened to Your Face?
Monday, March 29, 2010
Free Family History Classes
A series of three genealogy programs presented by the Family History Center will begin on April 1, followed by April 8, and April 15. All three sessions will be on Thursday from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. in the Saguaro Room.
The workshop is free and no registration is needed. Participants will first learn how to get started on their genealogy, the second session will cover census records, and the last session will focus on searching military records.
For more information please contact Mesa Librarian, Rebecca Allen, at (480) 644-4708.
Sunday, March 28, 2010
Your Spouse and Pride
He gave the following answer:
President Henry B. Eyring spoke about this in the October 2009 general conference in his talk entitled, “Our Perfect Example.” He said he had a hope and a prayer for all of us who are married, that we would be blessed with a love that would allow us to minimize our spouse’s weaknesses, look past them, and not worry about them. He said, “Pray for the love which allows you to see the good in your companion. Pray for the love that makes weaknesses and mistakes seem small. Pray for the love to make your companion’s joy your own. Pray for the love to want to lessen the load and soften the sorrows of your companion.”This is an easy trap to fall into. But then again, are not all of Satan’s traps easy to fall into? How often have we been guilty of such a transgression?
If you feel you are better than your spouse and you focus on his or her
weaknesses, you need to repent. You need to ask the Lord to bless you with the kind of love President Eyring talked about.
President Clark
Please take a moment today and look at your spouse and see the good in them. Pray for them, pray for yourself, pray for both of you. There is no one more important, no one you should care more about. Open your eyes and see them as God sees them.
Go give them hug, they deserve it!
Saturday, March 27, 2010
Green Myths Debunked – Go Get a Muscle Car
However, I really liked number 4, “Food: A stealthy greenhouse-gas culprit”. According to this study beef is the biggest producer of greenhouse gases. 18% of the gases are from meat and only 13% are from vehicles. So…
If I give up hamburgers, that should get me enough carbon offsets (see number 18) to purchase that ‘70 Blue ‘Cuda HEMI on ebay Motors.
Dance Class Opportunities
If you have any questions, give me a call or call Mary Lou.

Friday, March 26, 2010
Cooking Classes
The first class will be Wednesday evening March 31 at 7 PM. They will continue every Wednesday after (unless there is a cancellation). You are asked to please sign up for these classes via email or on-line. The classes are free but are limited to 45 people per class.
Their calendar can be found at: http://www.foodwisestorage.com/calendar
Recipes for the month of April will be focused on grains, May will be beans, June will be rice, and July will be a combination of these three basics. Each meal consists of an appetizer, 2 salads, an entrée and dessert all made with different grains, rice or beans.
They will start our bread classes on Sat. April 10 and every Sat thereafter. The classes begin at 2 PM and we make 2 different breads each week.
Please call if you have questions at: 480-626-JARS (5277).
Thursday, March 25, 2010
Providing Providently
I have blog about this talk before, but in this “Mormon Message” we are again reminding by Elder Hale of the importance of joyfully living within our means.
Hmm, another reminder, think this may be important?
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
Ada Lovelace Day
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
Out to Lunch with Myron
This is a great eight piece band, we have danced to them last month and they are great. In fact, when Myron does Louie Armstrong, you can see old ‘Satchmo if you close your eyes. They will be performing hits by Louie Armstrong, Tijuana Brass, Neil Diamond, and others.
Check out Myron’s website at http://www.nbea.com/mso.htm
Free Teen Driving Class
The Mesa Library in partnership with AAA will be holding a free class for teens and parents on the safety of teen driving. “Dare to Prepare: What You and Your Teen Driver Need to Know” is a pre-permit class that will cover road safety, driver behavior and other essential information teens will need to know before taking the wheel.
The class is held on Tuesday, Mar. 30 from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. in the Saguaro Room at the Main Library, 64 E. First St.
The event is free but registration is required and seating is limited to35 people. Call AAA at (602) 241-2945 to register or visit AAA at http://www.aaaaz.com/news/DareToPrepare for more information.
Monday, March 22, 2010
Kitchen Oil Fires
Sunday, March 21, 2010
Tie Dyed Easter Eggs
Our Best Bites has posted a great article on how to dye Easter eggs with silk ties. Check out the details on her site.

You have to use 100% silk ties. I am a little concerned about her, she seems to think these ties are ugly!
Seems like a waste of a perfectly good tie to me.
Saturday, March 20, 2010
Grand opening of Mesa Grande Interpretive Trail
The grand opening includes a free pancake breakfast from 8 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. sponsored by the Mesa Grande Community Alliance. There will be several activities conducted throughout the morning:
- Atlatl Throw
- Rabbit Stick Throw
- Archaeological Techniques Demonstration
- Pump Drill Demonstration
- Bolo Throw
- Self Guided Mound Tour
City of Mesa Job Openings
Water Treatment Plant Operator II $45,178 - $60,965
To apply for open positions, please visit: www.mesaaz.gov/jobs
Don’t forget that Mesa residents interested in working for the Census should call the LCO at (480) 270-8361 and say they were referred by the City of Mesa. They can also call the main jobline at (866) 861-2010. Here is the link to the jobs webpage: http://2010.census.gov/2010censusjobs/. To be eligible for any of the Census jobs, a person must pass a test and background check and this process takes some time, so we encourage people to apply as soon as possible
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
Get Irish Jiggy
Doors open at 6:45 p.m.
'Tis Irish we'll all be as the dance we'll learn will be the Irish Jig.
Bring all your friends ~ Irish or not.

Tuesday, March 16, 2010
Bead Inspired

From the Mesa Arts Center:
Don't miss BEAD INSPIRED! A fun event, FREE to the public featuring glass bead making demonstrations by talented bead artists, LIVE music by Sarah Styles and the Brotherhood of Blues, bead stringing activities, special appearance by Coyote Howler of the Phoenix Coyotes, performances by traditional Pow Wow dancers, and... so much more. Hosted by the Arizona Society of Glass Beadmakers.
Bead Inspired is the signature fundraising event for Beads of Courage, a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the quality of life for children coping with cancer and other serious illness through its innovative arts-in-medicine programs. The treatment journey for a child with a life threatening illness is very challenging involving many painful and uncomfortable procedures. Through all Beads of Courage Programs, children receive handmade beads, donated by artists, as symbols of honor and acknowledgement of their treatment milestones. These beads help them record, tell and own their stories of survival. The Beads of Courage Program serves over 60 children's hospitals nationwide, including Phoenix Children's Hospital and Cardon Children's Medical Center.
Also, join us for the Bead Inspired Art from the Heart ticketed reception and live auction in the Piper Theater following this event.
Time:10:00AM Saturday, March 20th
Location:Mesa Arts Center - Wells Fargo Garden
More information at the Mesa Arts Center website.
Please contact Jennifer Gribbon, 310-338-1500 Ext. 101 for questions. www.BeadsofCourage.org
Monday, March 15, 2010
City of Mesa Job Openings
To apply for open positions, please visit: www.mesaaz.gov/jobs
Don’t forget that Mesa residents interested in working for the Census should call the LCO at (480) 270-8361 and say they were referred by the City of Mesa. They can also call the main jobline at (866) 861-2010. Here is the link to the jobs webpage: http://2010.census.gov/2010censusjobs/. To be eligible for any of the Census jobs, a person must pass a test and background check and this process takes some time, so we encourage people to apply as soon as possible
The IDES of March - Et tu, Brute, Not the Salad!
Ingredients
1/2 to 3/4 cup croutons (see directions below)
1 coddled egg (see directions below)*
1 to 2 teaspoons finely chopped garlic (1 to 2 medium cloves with inner green germ removed)
1 anchovy fillet, mashed**
Pinch of coarse salt
2 tablespoons (1/2 lemon) freshly squeezed lemon juice***
3 drops Worcestershire sauce
6 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
4 tablespoons (1/4 cup) freshly grated Parmesan cheese, divided
1 head Romaine lettuce, hearts and tender leaves only
Coarsely ground black pepper
How to make croutons:
Preheat oven to 375 degrees.
Trim the crust from day-old peasant-style bread (Italian or French bread) and dice into 3/4-inch cubes. Toss with enough olive oil to coat, but not drench. Sprinkle lightly with salt and spread out on a rimmed baking sheet. Bake approximately 10 to 15 minutes or until just golden brown. Halfway through the baking time, give the pan a shake to make sure the croutons toast evenly. Remove from oven and completely cool croutons. Store in an airtight container.
How to coddle eggs:
Coddling causes the yolk to become slightly thickened and warm. Bring a very fresh egg to room temperature by immersing it in warm water (otherwise it might crack when coddled). Place the egg in a small bowl or mug and pour boiling water around the egg until it is covered. Let stand for exactly 1 minute. Immediately run cold water into the bowl until the egg can be easily handled; set aside.
(Be careful with coddled eggs, they spoil easily – :)*
How to make Caesar Salad dressing:
In a bowl, whisk together the garlic, anchovy, and salt until blended. Whisk in the lemon juice and Worcestershire sauce. Whisk in the coddled egg until the mixture is thick, approximately 1 minute (this enable the lemon juice to "cook" the eggs). Slowly drizzle in the olive oil with one hand while vigorously whisking the mixture with the other. When the dressing is well combined, whisk in 2 tablespoons of the Parmesan cheese.
How to assemble Caesar Salad:
Separate the Romaine leaves and discard the coarse outer leaves. Wash, drain, and pat with paper towels or spin dry the remaining leaves. Note: Lettuce should be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated until ready to use. Tear into bite-size pieces and set aside.
In a large wooden salad bowl, add 1/3 of the dressing and toss with the croutons until well coated. Add the Romaine lettuce pieces and the remaining dressing; toss until coated
How to serve Caesar Salad:
Divide the salad between chilled plates and sprinkle each salad with the remaining 2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese and coarsely ground pepper.
Serve immediately with chilled forks.
Makes 2 to 4 servings (depending on serving sizes)
* note, if they get too spoiled make them sit in the corner for 20 minutes, works wonders.
Sunday, March 14, 2010
Treasure truth and prepare for the future

This article is too long to quote in its entirety here, and you can read it at this link. Thank you Carolyn for sharing this with me, I missed it when it was published.
In a recent address at a fireside at BYU-Idaho, Elder M. Russell Ballard of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles discussed the fulfillment of prophecies regarding the last days. He pointed out to the students that they can “inoculate themselves against spiritual indifference via a zealous study of revealed truth.” He quoted passages from Matthew 24, 2 Nephi 28, and Mormon 8, establishing that the ancient prophecies of the last days are not just being fulfilled but are coming to pass at an accelerated rate.
He stated: “We're in the last days — you can quote me on that. And it is moving more rapidly."
"I have to say to you," Elder Ballard said, "there are not very many people in the world who understand where we came from, the real purpose why we're here and where we're entitled to go if we seek out and strive to know those things that are eternally important.”
This is an important article that needs to be shared with your families. It was published in the Church News, Tuesday, Feb. 9, 2010, and you can read it completely at this link.
Happy Birthday Albert!

Isn’t it fitting that PI day is Albert Einstein’s birthday, coincidence?
I have had a similar poster to this in my office at work since the early ‘80’s. It more than once rankled members of upper management.
Saturday, March 13, 2010
Understanding the Basics of Emergency Water Purification
The article discusses the 7 basic areas of concern, namely: Protozoa – Cryptosporidium and Giardia, Bacteria, Viruses, Parasites, Particulate, Chemicals, and Taste/Odor.
It then discusses the three basic methods of purifying water: boiling, chemicals, and filtering.
There is also some very useful information in the comments regarding water treatment using distillation and UV irradiation methods.
A short article but very informative, you should take a minute and check it out. It is laced with advertizing but hey, you have to make a living somehow.
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
How Are You Celebrating PI Day?

3.14159265358979323846264338327950288419716939937510582097494459230781640628620899862803482534211706798214808651328230664709384460955058223172535940812848111745028410270193852110555964462294895493038196442881097566593344612847564823378678316527120190914564856692346034861045432664821339360726024914127372458700660631558817488152092096282925409171536436789259036001133053054882046652138414695194151160943305727036575959195309218611738193261179310511854807446237996274956735188575272489122793818301194912983367336244065664308602139494639522473719070217986094370277053921717629317675238467481846766940513200056812714526356082778577134275778960917363717872146844090122...
I will refrain from trying to type all 6.4 billion known places for pi.
You do know that Sunday is PI Day don’t you? Are you going to celebrate? We are. In fact, at 1:59pm I expect to be enjoying a nice piece of pie. We are also having a neighborhood party on Monday, a little late, but is it ever too late for pi?
What is your favorite way to calculate pi? There are several at this ehow page.. My favorite method is by throwing hotdogs. It actually works and we still have the hotdogs from last year in the freezer. If you doubt me check out this site.
Pi can be fun also, check out the Fun with Pi page and it is great music!
Spring break fun at Mesa Library
Tuesday, Mar. 16 from 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. it’s “Craft Time for Kids”. Children ages five to 12 can make crafts from wiki stixs and library play-dough.
Wednesday, Mar. 17 from 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m., celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with “Luck of the Irish” crafts for children ages five to 12.
Thursday, Mar. 18 from 10:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. children ages three to five can enjoy “Storytime”.
Friday, Mar. 19 from 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. children ages five to 12 can participate in “Winds of Change.” Learn how to make crafts that are powered by the wind.
Saturday, Mar. 20 from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., children ages four to 18, can drop in for “Wii Love Third Saturdays.” Kids can play the Wii, board games, card games, and puzzles.
The Red Mountain Library is located at 635 N. Power Rd. For more information contact Mesa Librarian, Vickie Hoff at (480) 644-2707.
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
Introduction to Ham Radio
Invite your friends, family, and neighbors. Come share your ideas or listen to others share theirs. Bring questions, comments, information, tips, tricks, and cool products to share with the group.
73’s - N7UME
Monday, March 8, 2010
Eagle Scout Congratulations

Do you have a Scout who will soon receive his Eagle Award? Would you like him to receive a letter from President Obama or Senator McCain?
See this link for instructions on how to request these letters and the addresses for requesting them. If you would like a special Eagle Scout recognition, e.g. flag flown over the Pentagon or Capitol, click here for instructions.
Sunday, March 7, 2010
Burned Biscuits
Every once in awhile you come across one of those old stories that warms your heart and helps you put your life back in perspective. This is one of those… Thanks Ken for sharing.
When I was a kid, my mom liked to make breakfast food for dinner every now and then. And I remember one night in particular when she had made breakfast after a long, hard day at work. On that evening so long ago, my mom placed a plate of eggs, sausage and extremely burned biscuits in front of my dad. I remember waiting to see if anyone noticed. Yet all my dad did was reach for his biscuit, smile at my mom and ask me how my day was at school. I don't remember what I told him that night, but I do remember watching him smear butter and jelly on that biscuit and eat every bite.
When I got up from the table that evening, I remember hearing my mom apologize to my dad for burning the biscuits. And I'll never forget what he said: "Honey, I love burned biscuits."
Later that night, I went to kiss Daddy good night and I asked him if he really liked his biscuits burned. He wrapped me in his arms and said, "Your Momma put in a hard day at work today and she's real tired. And besides - a little burned biscuit never hurt anyone!"
You know, life is full of imperfect things.....and imperfect people. I'm not the best at hardly anything, and I forget birthdays and anniversaries just like everyone else. What I've learned over the years is that learning to accept each other's faults - and choosing to celebrate each other's differences is one of the most important keys to creating a healthy, growing, and lasting relationship.
And that's my prayer for you today. That you will learn to take the good, the bad, and the ugly parts of your life and lay them at the feet of God. Because in the end, He's the only One who will be able to give you a relationship where a burned biscuit isn't a deal-breaker!
We could extend this to any relationship. In fact, understanding is the base of any relationship, be it a husband-wife or parent-child or friendship.
"Don't put the key to your happiness in someone else's pocket - keep it in your own."
God Bless You..... Now, and Always....
So Please pass me a biscuit, and yes, the burned one will do just fine.
Visit Our State Parks

The annual Civil War in the Southwest will be held March 13 & 14, 2010 at Picacho Peak State Park! Each year hundreds of spectators descend on Picacho Peak State Park to watch re-enactments of an Arizona Civil War skirmish and the New Mexico battles of Glorieta and Val Verde.
Visitors travel from around the country to experience the three fascinating historic re-enactment's complete with lifestyles of the soldiers in the southwest during the 1860s. More than 200 re-enactors come in from many states and will camp at the park with their authentic Civil War camping gear. Food and beverage concessions are also available, including the popular Kettle corn vendor.
For more information on this event and other events in our State Parks, click on the picture above.
Free Swim Lessons in Mesa
The City of Mesa, Parks, Recreation and Commercial Facilities Department is offering free swim lessons at Shepherd Aquatic Complex, 1407 N. Alta Mesa Dr. Lessons are taught by instructors-in-training and will evaluate each child’s swimming ability, review techniques, and teach new swimming skills.
Two sessions are offered for children ages five to 10. The first session is from Mar. 17-19 at 3:30 p.m. and 4:15 p.m. The second session is on Apr. 1, 6, and 8 at 5:15 p.m. and 6 p.m. Classes are capped at 20 children per class. Please plan on attending all three classes.
Register through Mesa Parks and Recreation online system, WebTrac at http://www.mesaaz.gov/parksrec/timeout. Or call the Mesa Parks and Recreation registration desk at (480) 644-2352.
Free Concert at Freestone Park

The Arizona Bop Cats will take you back in time to the music of the 50’s and 60’s with songs from the Elvis, The Beach Boys and more. We have danced on Main Street to this band, they are pretty good.
Parking is free and food and beverages will be available for purchase.
City of Mesa Jobs Openings
Recreation Aide – Seasonal $8.83 - $11.92 Hourly
Recreation Assistant - Part-time and Seasonal $11.92 - $16.04 Hourly
Recreation Trainee – Seasonal $7.25 Hourly
Water Meter Technician I $31,762 - $42,973
To apply for open positions, please visit: www.mesaaz.gov/jobs
Don’t forget that Mesa residents interested in working for the Census should call the LCO at (480) 270-8361 and say they were referred by the City of Mesa. They can also call the main jobline at (866) 861-2010. Here is the link to the jobs webpage: http://2010.census.gov/2010censusjobs/. To be eligible for any of the Census jobs, a person must pass a test and background check and this process takes some time, so we encourage people to apply as soon as possible
Thursday, March 4, 2010
I Will Prepare
The www.iwillprepare.com website offers information on a number of emergency preparedness issues. See information on Emergency Kits, Cooking Without Electricity, Water, 90 Supplies, First Aid, and more.
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
March Landscape Watering
A weekend storm system provided additional soaking rains. If you haven't already done so, use the 'off', 'stop', or 'rain' setting on your controller or timer to stop the watering cycle without disturbing your programs. Soils should have plenty of moisture stored, and irrigation systems can stay off for a while.
Many desert trees such as mesquites may look sparse, but it's normal! They will drop their leaves and leaf out with new growth soon.
Recommendations below are for plants that are established in the landscape (in the ground about 2 years).
Lawn watering:
Dormant summer grass (Bermuda) - once every 14 days
Overseeded cool season grass (rye) - once every 7 days
If trees and shrubs are on the same valve:
Desert Adapted - once every 25 days
High Water Use - once every 12 days
Tree watering:
Desert Adapted - once every 30 days
High Water Use - once every 14 days
Shrub watering:
Desert Adapted - once every 21 days
High Water Use - once every 10 days
Groundcover and vine watering:
Desert Adapted - once every 21 days
High Water Use - once every 10 days
Cacti and succulent watering - once every 28 days
Annuals watering - once every 6 days
Native wildflowers - once every 10 days
Note: These recommendations are a general guideline only and may need to be modified for your specific site conditions.
For more information see the City’s webpage at: http://tinyurl.com/yjky4zu
Monday, March 1, 2010
Community Day of Play at Pioneer Park
For just $6 per child, they can have unlimited access to inflatable rides, bounce houses, obstacle courses, carnival games, and a petting zoo. All games are geared towards children from preschool to 8th grade.
The proceeds will go towards awarding scholarships to children who cannot afford summer recreation programs.