You know you want some!

I received this picture from my brother today with the heading, "You know you want some!"

I felt this was cruel and unusual behavior on the part of my normally kind brother.

I mean, now I will have Mazariner on the brain all day today. In case you don't know what you are looking at, may I formally introduce you to Mazariner tarts.

Mazariner are delicious Swedish mini tarts with almond paste filling. My sister-in-law, Kirsti, makes these. I remember taking an entire cake tin of these home from Linnea's wedding. I ate every one of them myself. They were goooooooooood.

I just thought the taunting should continue. Why should I be the only one suffering from Mazariner deprivation today?

Fred is official!

Fred waves to all his fans, friends and family on his special day: October 11, 2009. He was given a name and a blessing by his father, Daniel Evensen, on this day, at LDS Church services in South Jordan, Utah.

At three months old, he's already wearing clothing big enough for a 9-month old child! He's also got some fierce hair-do going on. You go, Fred!

Here is Fred being fawned over by part of his fan club, step-Grandmother Merlene, and far-flung Arizona cousins Kendall and Taylor.

He was really quiet and happy during his big moment in church, his father proudly proclaimed. He smiled happily while he got his Norwegian/Swedish/American name and his Chinese name. He didn't start howling until later, when he was hungry. I totally understand, Fred. I often feel like that, too.

Later, there were more than 30 people who came by the house to celebrate. Sounds like a good time was had by all. And now little Fred is officially a child of record in the Lord's kingdom here on earth. It's a start, Fred. We'll all be there to help you through the rest of the stuff along the way. I just wish I could have been there.

It's A Wonderful Life

There's nothing that says the holidays like seeing the classic film, "It's a Wonderful Life" with Jimmy Stewart, Donna Reed and Lionel Barrymore.

This year, my local community theatre is doing "It's a Wonderful Life, the Radio Show" and yes, it's the entire film done as a 1940s-style radio program, complete with station breaks and advertisments. I was lucky enough to land the role as Mrs. Bailey, George's mother, and another small part. We've just started rehearsals and so far it is proving a delightful experience.

I can't think of a more fun way to usher in the holidays than with this lovely story about the worth of one good man (and woman) and the power of prayer.

In this world of increasing vulgarity, it's refreshing to be reminded of simpler times. The show also provides small glimpses into the beginnings of the Great Depression in America - an era that resonates all too well in this troubled time we live in.

Our present day woes make the film's (and the play's) message even more vital today, and one of the reasons for its enduring popularity: one person can make a difference, prayers are answered, there is hope for the world - and God still has the final say in the affairs of mankind. I find that message comforting.

Was that a bell I just heard?