Van Nuys Stake Center

When this building was built (in the 50's) I believe it was the largest chapel in the church.  There were 2 chapels (one can seat 450 and the other 350), a FULL basketball court, two kitchens (one industrial), a stage, baseball field, and two huge parking lots.  It's since been remodeled but the chapels weren't changed much.  It was really nice to be able to go inside the building today (someone was there setting up for a wedding).

What's hot?

Our family frequented Western Bagel when we lived in Van Nuys.  It was near our chapel.  We always asked "What's hot?" and then we'd get the bagels that were the freshest.  I bought a dozen bagels this morning (which is really a baker's dozen) for $8.50.  Not a bad price for a good bagel.

LA Temple

I love the LA Temple.  Tonight I met my brother and sister-in-law there.  And I saw my old Laurel adviser.  And we met my nephew's mission president.  The LA Temple was dedicated in 1956 and when it was built it was the tallest building in the area.  It's a beautiful building...might be my favorite Temple.

This is the Place

I LOVE LA

Flying...

My first flight was from Boston to Memphis.  Imagine my surprise when the flight attendant announced the flight was to Jackson, Mississippi.  People gasped!  She was confused and immediately announced it was to Memphis.

The guy next to me on the Memphis flight held a barf bag the last 20 minutes of the flight.  He didn't have to use it (thank goodness).

California here I come
Right back where I started from
Where bowers of flowers
Bloom in the spring
Each morning, at dawning
Birdies sing and everything
A sun-kissed miss said, "Don't be late"
that's why I can hardly wait
Open up that golden Gate (or the gate at LAX)
California, here I come.

A new generation is redefining Mormon cuisine

Mormon cuisine?!?

Not Just for Sundays After Church

photo from the NYT

My kind of winter day

56 degrees

Busiest work day of the year

This hole punch was my best friend today on my busiest day of the year.

More from the party

Double Open House

It was a busy October for the Duke boys.  Wes and Lauryn were married in the LA Temple in early October and Taylor and Katrina were married in the Seattle Temple in late October.  Today Amy hosted an Open House for both couples.  There were lots of Arlington Ward "alumni" there.  It was wonderful celebration.

(Good) friends

Reading the Book of Mormon

I'm reading the Book of Mormon again. The twist this year is I'm trying to not wait until bedtime to read.  So far...pretty good.

Um, yum

I've got big plans for the cute cowboy fabric

In my condo

The table in the entryway.

Last night I was in the kitchen...

...wearing an apron and making black bean chili, bran muffin mix, and a chocolate cake.