Six-Inch Cross and Crown

Ten-Inch Cross and Crown

 

Twelve-Inch Cross and Crown

 

We just got back from a trip to Disneyland. We had a lovely time (we always do). But we packed in a hurry, and the results were a bit random. Somehow, we ended up with three different deodorants and three containers of dental floss. One of each would have been sufficient. We forgot detangler and conditioner, and we were one toothbrush short. We brought charging cables for devices we no longer own. The cables we needed were AWOL. I wish we’d remembered to bring pillows from home. No matter how nice the resort is, the pillows are always woefully inadequate. I’d have brought our mattresses, too, if I could have fit them in my luggage. In future, I must remember to pack at least one roll of toilet paper, one box of tissues, and a roll of paper towels. Our resort had all three, but they were clearly designed to make us miss the ones we’d left at home.

Four Friendship Stars

 

Another Six-Inch Friendship Star

 

Culinary inspiration can come from the most surprising places. Today’s recipe is from the Galactic Grill, the Star Wars-themed burger joint in Disneyland, between the Matterhorn and Autopia.

 

Red Pepper Ranch Dressing

 

8 ounces cream cheese, softened

1/2 cup plain Greek-style yoghurt

1/2 cup roasted red peppers, chopped

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes

3 green onions, chopped

3 tablespoons Hidden Valley Ranch dip mix

 

Add all ingredients to a blender or food processer; process until smooth. Cover and refrigerate at least an hour before serving. We were served this with a chopped salad: grilled chicken, cucumbers, red peppers, red onions, feta cheese and leaf lettuce. But it would be delightful as a dip as well. 

Six-Inch Friendship Star

 

2023 is the 100-year anniversary of the debut of the Disney cartoon studio. Walt Disney’s legacy is hailed as the great American rags-to-riches story, but in 1931 it nearly came to a screeching halt. Walt and Lillian had been trying to start a family. There was a miscarriage, and Walt responded by throwing himself into his work. Walt said, “I had a hell of a break-down. I went to pieces.” Their doctor prescribed a vacation and more exercise. In October, Walt and Lillian took their first trip together, which they called a “gypsy jaunt.” They packed their bags and left on an impromptu cross-country trip that ended with them sailing through the Panama Canal aboard the S.S. California. Walt, finally realizing there was more to life than work, took up horseback riding and polo. Shortly afterward, the Silly Symphonies cartoon series appeared. And, soon after that, so did the Disneys’ first daughter, Diane. 

Nine-Inch Friendship Star

 

“We cannot share our oil, but we can share His light. Oil in our lamps will not only help us abide the day, but can also be the means of illuminating the path that leads those we love to the Savior, who stands ready with open arms to receive them.” – Amy A. Wright

“Whenever the Lord asks us to serve in any calling, whether it is a lighter or a heavy calling, He sees our needs. He provides the strength we need and has blessings ready to be poured out upon us as we faithfully serve.” – Elder Yoon Hwan Choi

“Pause as you look at yourself in the mirror. Think to yourself, or say aloud if you like, ‘Wow! Look at me! I am amazing! I am a child of God! He knows me! He loves me! I am gifted! Gifted with the Holy Ghost as my constant companion!” – Elder Gary E. Stevenson