In case you were wondering

Another thought I like

2012-02-15T20:40:00.001-07:00

Sometimes I have a heavy heart.

2012-02-15T20:39:00.001-07:00

Things are mostly ok. I have such great people in my life to keep me from not worrying too much. Sometimes I have to listen to Abba to pull my thoughts back. It's a good trick.

Beautiful People

2012-01-31T21:23:00.000-07:00

I have a new friend that I visit teach. She actually knows Laura from AF hospital so we had an instant connection. Its great that I get to VT her. We went out on Monday and she asked about me and my missionaries. I told her the basics and she was so awesome. She was so kind and loving. Later that day, she sent me this quote that is a new favorite.

"The most beautiful people we have known are those who have known defeat,
known suffering, known struggle, known loss, and have found their way out of
the depths. These persons have an appreciation, a sensitivity, and an
understanding of life that fills them with compassion, gentleness, and a deep
loving concern. Beautiful people do not just happen."
--- Elizabeth Kubler Ross

I instantly thought of the most beautiful people I know, my Mom and other family members and close friends, and found out their secret. I knew I had to share this beautiful inspiring quote.

By their fruits ye shall know them

2012-01-27T14:03:00.003-07:00

This past week was much longer and more difficult than I expected. I wont go into detail on everything, but Joseph was not able to make it to the MTC on Wednesday as expected. As of last night he was released as a full time missionary. He still has the opportunity to serve in Florida when he and the Bishop decide its time.

Since Wednesday morning we have had a couple of different responses. Mostly there has been an out pouring of love and support. There has been some anger, and disappointment and even some anti Mormon ideas thrown at Joseph. The love and acceptance from our family, and the Bishop and stake president have been monumental. Some brave souls have even come to Joseph to offer love and kindness. That is HUGE for this mama. Of course we wanted Joseph to go on Wednesday, Of course we want him to go when "the time is right"--- but my biggest fear is that he will be treated poorly and slowly walk away from the church.

Which leads me to the question- Have I helped or hurt others when the shoe is on the other foot? It is awkward to know what to say, it is not what any one planned. What I have seen help in the last 48 hours is people that express love and confidence with out asking prying questions, and letting Joseph know he is okay with them regardless of his choice.

David, Joseph and I have had several scriptures come to mind over the last few days. When I saw the onslaught of responses on fb to his not going into the MTC, it came over and over to mind, "Ye shall know them by their fruits" We've mostly seen angels with beautiful kind and loving Christ like "fruit", but we have seen the dark and ugly and destructive as well.
I'm learning anew how to share loving fruit and be a true disciple of Christ.
Thank you to those that read my blog and have shown support for our family. It is really weird and different than we expected. But the battle is the Lords. I can only hope to be a help and not a hurt.

Not just coincidence.

2012-01-24T09:18:00.002-07:00

My sweet friend Penny is the YW president in our Highland ward. She is awesome and though just a little further on the path than I am is such a great role model for me. She is funny and classy and really likes the color pink. She gave all of the YW leaders a little pink reading schedule for the Book Of Mormon for Christmas. Yes, yes, I am behind generally (as in I didn't start on Jan 1, more like Jan 17) but here is the card for Jan 23, Jacob 5.
The President Benson quote spoke to my heart. Why is it a bit harder this time?

The last one in the nest

2012-01-24T09:17:00.003-07:00

Chinese new year began yesterday so we went to the second annual Chinese New Year celebration last night at LHS. Here's Jacob performing his abilities with the diablo. He was so fun to watch, and the drums were so awesome too... It was a fun night

Oh my heart!

2012-01-24T09:17:00.001-07:00

Shirt and tie party

2012-01-24T09:16:00.003-07:00

So shopping for an elder is different than shopping for a Hermana. I call it the Christmas shopping theory. Some people are fine shopping for Christmas the day before the big day--- typically men. Women, including me, would rather have the whole thing wrapped up (literally) before Dec 15, if not earlier-
So it is with Joseph and me in this missionary physical prep. So early on, I had to take some control and we knocked out all the shirts at once, ya know, one stop, not too painful for the Elder. So that meant that our traditional "Shirt and Tie Party" became just a tie party. But Joseph totally scored!!
I have a very generous and loving family, not enough words to really describe my gratitude.

Sunday January 22- part of my letter to AJ says it all

2012-01-24T09:15:00.002-07:00

We got to church just 5 min early, but the place was packed and as we walked in, I saw all the Haws side sitting together in two of the short benches in the side. It was so heart warming. I gave a few hugs, then went to find where Kim and Jacob were sitting. I saw President and Sister Raines then the Dixons- that got me weepy. Later the Fuestons came in. Jacobs buds from the Lehi ward were there-- it was really good, along with many guys Joseph's age. Randalls family, Cheryl, Garrett and Jenny and Clark and Sara were
there too. I know it wasn't about me, but I felt so blessed to have such a strong and numerous family. They are my people and in a way, my safety net. It was very touching.
Joseph gave a great talk with humor and much deep spirituality. I know he was worried, but he pulled it off beautifully. To add to the happiness one of the cute laurels was on the program too and they sat by each other. It was kind of like a date. ;)

Angie pope and Natalie Pixton both miamaids came to my class even though I wasn't teaching. They are beautiful girls. Some of the others went to our house during the last two hours of church, and honestly we missed Sunday school for all the visiting we did. But those that went home prepared the food under Jacobs instruction, so that was awesome for me. All the buddies played ping pong and ate downstairs while family pretty much stayed near the kitchen. It was all great and i think the day was perfect for Joseph. We ended with the shirt and tie party at the grands. They hadn't been able to make it to highland.
It was good! Not too crazy.

Friday we went with Joseph to do sealings which got me weepy again. To realize again I am sealed to both of these wonderful men is very very humbling and very tender.

Joseph just came up to is in tears of gratitude and some apprehension but his is faithful and stronger than he realizes.

It will be an interesting week but I look forward to your letter and update tomorrow . Hope your baptism is still on for next week.

It started with pinterest

2012-01-21T09:12:00.001-07:00

A while ago I saw a cute cuddly minky/silky baby blanket on pinterest. I was sure it would be too tricky for me to make, but soon my sister Holly was whipping one up. Her new grandbaby had just arrived. With some coaching from Holly, I decided to try it. Hobby lobby had the best price on fabric. With Hollys advise I decided not to try and do it all at once. I was able to get it done for our little family baby shower a few days before tiny girl came. So here it is. It's not perfect but it is very soft.

An "at this moment" picture I sent to Aubrey

2012-01-21T09:05:00.001-07:00

Got it done

2012-01-21T09:04:00.001-07:00

He's smiling now

2012-01-19T22:03:00.001-07:00

A fight?

2012-01-19T22:01:00.001-07:00

The other day I was in the basement sewing. Well I was sitting on the couch down there so I must have been picking out sewing.
Sorry forgot to set this up right. Tuesday night Jacob came home from the y m activity. He wasn't really feeling part of this ward. To add to the burden he found out that rumors were being spread about him at LHS. Completely false rumors. So he was really down. We made a medicinal trip to applebys for their warm chocolate
Chip cookie with ice cream dessert. (David was in Houston). Jacob talked a lot to me and seemed to feel better.
Now skip ahead to Wednesday afternoon. Joseph and I are talking downstairs and we hear some one moving around upstairs. I said "is that Jacob?" Joseph said I think so and he looked up the stairs from the landing. Then he looked at me. Then he looked back up the stairs and said "what happened?". Slowly Jacob came down the stairs very seriously. He looked like he had a burn or abrasion on his neck and bleeding something on his forehead, and bruises and wounds on his other arm. I immediately thought he had been in a fight. A fight??? A fist fight? It's never happened before. He must have confronted a rumor spreader? Then he finally spoke and said. "in drama 3...." and I knew all was well. It was all make up. He had to buy me a Kneaders frilled cheese sandwich ad part of his repentance. I like the kids grilled cheese over the adult grilled cheese FYI. Medicinal of course.

A really awesome Friday 13

2012-01-15T22:53:00.000-07:00

5 am on Friday the 13 I got a phone call inviting me to prepare to meet Kaylee. She wasn't born yet but would be soon. I sent my own birthday boy Joseph over to sleep the rest of the early hours over with big brother Jack. Laura had worked for the last 12 hours then was admitted to be "augmented" in labor. Her water was broken and she was given a tiny bit of pitocin and our new little love was born at 9:55 am. It was such a huge blessing to be there. Steve and I were in either side of Laura and I was even asked to cut the cord, which I had never done before. Im so thankful to Laura and Steve that I got to be there to witness the miracle and beauty of life. I kept thinking back 19!!! 19 years ago I was in exactly the same situation with my Joseph. It's easy to forget those things---
Right outside Laura's delivery room window, the spires of the temple kept reminding me how me how awesome this whole experience was. What an amazing day.

My happy heart

2011-12-25T22:37:00.001-07:00

She looked and sounded so good! I'm so thankful she happy and growing and serving.

Is it unfaithful to wonder if I can do this for the next four Christmas'?

Look what I won!!

2011-12-23T18:57:00.002-07:00

On a recent Studio 5 segment, Mandy Douglas introduced a new way to journal. It was using a calendar and just noting a few events on each day. It certainly isnt my ideal way of journaling, but it is far far more than I have done in years-- decades!! Well, I didnt see her segment live, but I did see it on her blog, a day after it aired. She had a promotional code for 40% off and free shipping if you ordered the journal on the day it aired. I tried to get it for the discounted price, but it wouldnt go throught. Bummer. I looked at her blog again, and she had a give away of two of these journals. I thought, well, Ill give it a go. My odds were better winning on her blog, that getting the discount code to work. AND I WON! cool hua? It came Wednesday, and surprisingly the calendar begins with Dec 2011, and goes through Dec 2012 so I can start immediatly! very cool hua?

Guys just do it differently

2011-12-23T18:51:00.001-07:00

After Joseph got his mission call, he didn't say when he wanted to go to the temple. Since I was asked not to pressure him, we waited for him to take the lead. Come to find out the SP had asked him to attend all the temple prep classes before he went--- anyway he got his SP signature on Tuesday night and we planned a temple trip for Thursday. Joseph wanted to go to the Draper temple. That meant we needed to hustle and make sure we brought everything since they don't have clothing rental there. I totally got out of Christmas shopping so I could hem his new pants ;)
As expected it was a wonderful experience.

It was bound to happen

2011-12-23T18:44:00.001-07:00

A tiny bit of AB positive blood got on the white fabric. I got it out though.

A huge payoff

2011-12-23T18:42:00.001-07:00

I missed her call

2011-12-23T18:41:00.003-07:00

Today while I was in the family room my phone was in on my bed. I went to get it about 1/2 hour ago. I had missed a call that came through as "blocked" but there was a voice message left by "unknown". I listen to the message and it was hard to understand. I was 20-30 seconds in when I realized it was Aubrey!!! She was going to call tomorrow--- I immediately started crying cause I thought I had missed my chance to talk to her for just a second. Jacob saw my reaction and quickly put his arm around me. David noticed and got wide eyed. At this point aub said she'd call again tomorrow to get skype info for Christmas day so I told the two it was ok. I just thought I had missed something- I was so surprised at my thought process, and freak out. My spirit is truly in a different place this Christmas. So I'm still a little bummed I didn't get to talk to her today, but having her message on my phone is AWESOME.

How its going

2011-12-15T20:09:00.001-07:00

We've had buddy boy Jack here since early Sunday morning. Generally things have gone better than I thought, but night and nap times have been as difficult as I worried about. I decided early on I was in no emotional place to be fighting a two yr old for a week, so we've been playing it pretty loose. Heres a picture I found on my phone--- kinda self incriminating for the anonymous person that took the picture hua? Jack calls my phone "mh-phone" as in "my phone" with a little country accent. The monkey preschool app has been awesome for him.
Today I learned the mall + 2 1/2 year old + grandma = almost certain fail. So we cut the visit short. We swung by and got JC popcorn chicken at sonic and me a good ice cfd coke and called it a win. I am enjoying the simpler days but I will appreciate a full night sleep when that time comes. He's a doll and charming us all, including the uncles.

I think I've figured a part of this out

2011-12-11T16:14:00.000-07:00

So, its two weeks out until Christmas. I have two Christmas things up in my home. The tree is up, yet not decorated, and I put out some awesome potpourri with the "scent of Christmas" on it, in my entry way. I'm just not feeling it. I wasnt sure what was going on. I knew I'd have a great week with Jack while his parents are in Hawaii, and I didnt want to put too much pressure on myself while he was here to do things just right, but it was more than that. I wasnt even motivated to get things done before the big JC came over. Then I got this poem on an email

I skipped the sales after Thanksgiving. The thrill just wasn't there.
No pictures taken with Santa Claus, My decorating has no flair.
His presents are shoes, shirts, and ties, two suits and socks...no fun.
I've bought him all white clothes because... This year I'm giving Christ
my son.
I've spent more time in the temple, my testimony stirred.
I've reread November's Ensign, Felt strength come from His words.
Our family prays more frequently. My tears are quick to run.
Abraham seems closer because, This year I'm giving Christ my son.
I wonder how those Lamanite mothers, gave their sons to war?
Or how the pioneers chose Zion , their sacrifice was so much more.
My loss will be his presence, I'll miss his smile a ton
For two years we will pray for him, I'm giving Christ my son.
I stare at his face when he's not looking. I memorize his eyes, their shine.
He's always hungered for the part of him, that makes his soul divine.
The stories and lessons he always heard, His choice and mine are one.
I'll put my faith in God's hand, This year, I'm giving Him my son.
Past gifts have lost their glitter; I think I finally understand
Christ's birth should be celebrated by giving Him a hand.
It's because I know Christ lives and reigns that all his packing's done.
My gift has taken years to make, This year... I'm giving Christ my son.
I know there's One who understands, the sacrifice I'm making.
Who knows the gift I willingly give, The toll it will be taking.
For He has done it all before Greater love - there could be none.
For years ago God gave to me, His only begotten son.
The hands I washed, the hands I held, The hands I taught to pray;
Now knock on doors to find the ones Who will listen to what he'll say.
Because I know Christ needs him, Until all the gathering's done,
My gift has taken years to make. This year...I'm giving Christ my son.

Having Aubrey out and Joseph on the launching pad this year has had a bigger affect on me than I ever thought it would. It's not that I want them anywhere else, but it certainly throws my groove. All in all its ok, not having the energy? motivation? whatever, to get my stuff up and festive. It is weird though. (AJ would say "weirdy") :)

Before

2011-12-06T21:11:00.001-07:00

Joseph by our Argentina wall. Soon to be shared with Florida! :)

During

2011-12-06T21:09:00.003-07:00

After

2011-12-06T21:09:00.001-07:00

I think I know him!

It's my honeys birthday!!

2011-12-06T21:06:00.000-07:00

Today is my good mans birthday! He is such a joy and wanted him to have a happy day. I had all the kids write favorite memories of their time with him on post it's. I took them down to his work and put them all in his car! It was an awesome idea I found on the web somewhere. I even had some memories from A J to include. It was a good part of his day. :)

I've joined the elf on a shelf happiness

2011-12-06T21:00:00.001-07:00

While my kids were young we really played down the whole Santa thing during Christmas time.
Now that we are mostly through that part of parenthood, I have pretty much swung to the other side of the scale. The new (to me at least) thing is the Elf on a Shelf thing. The elf comes to your house for the Christmas season and reports nightly to Santa of the happenings in your house. Kim, Joseph and Jacob patiently giggled though the story book that comes with the Elf. When presses to name our new little friend they chose "chipwood" which has a connection to the family naughty word, "dip". (If you don't know the dip story please don't mention anything about knowing us to the officers in the city I live in. I'll tell you later.). Anyway, I choose to call him Chip or Chipper.
Chip brought us donuts this morning! We must be doing okay so far. Jack came and may I say he certainly appreciated Chips offering with more sincerity than some others.

A close up

2011-12-06T20:45:00.001-07:00

A new hot cocoa idea

2011-12-04T00:35:00.000-07:00

This I must share! I came upon it a while ago and now I must tell you. Now that the cold weather had come Dave and I have hot chocolate almost every night. I have found I like to have both marshmallows AND whipped cream on my drink. The cream pushes the marshmallows down so they soften in the warm cocoa, and the cream, if you use enough ;) keeps the heat in the cup longer. I sprinkle the cream with either Choco sprinkles or these new chocolate chips that are half peppermint half vanilla chips. Delightful!! The Starbucks hot cocoa mix from Costco is awesome, but not for the weak as far as dark chocolate goes. Dave likes the Stephens better, but I love the starbucks with some french vanilla creamer added. Give it a try. You'll thank me

I can't tell you how this messes me up

2011-11-17T14:31:00.001-07:00

The quiet book inspiration

2011-11-09T22:52:00.001-07:00

Profess so far

2011-11-09T22:48:00.001-07:00

Until I figure out how to post the video

2011-11-09T13:06:00.001-07:00

The call came on my bday!!
Joseph is headed to Tallahassee Florida English speaking January 25!!

Connie

12 white shirts!!

2011-11-09T10:33:00.001-07:00

Fwd: Jojo mission call

2011-11-04T08:18:00.000-06:00

>>>
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We're starting to get excited around here

2011-10-23T19:57:00.001-06:00

Josephs papers went in Tuesday night after he spoke with the stake president. Maybe the call will come on Wednesday, or the next or- my last offer is the next. We are starting to guess!

A good idea

2011-10-23T19:54:00.001-06:00

I read somewhere or a few somewheres of a few good ideas for being a missionary mom. Here's what I've come up with. The clock above is Argentina time, and we have a count down chart on the lower left. I can probably find a better map, but this was a quick find at Costco so I'm using this one. I have a little map of Bahia Blanca taped to the lower part of the map.
I'm saving the right half for our next missionary ;)

Fabric I couldn't pass up

2011-10-19T22:14:00.001-06:00

Last week I was in a fabric store near my home and I saw this awesome flannel!! Dr Suess' Grinch!! oh man, how could I resist? There was a sample quilt made up and I just couldn't pass it up. So here is one of my current sewing adventures. I'm so happy I got use that fabric. Not much fabric impresses me. I'm very choosy. That's how I was with men ;) and I still have the one that impressed me so long ago :) and I'm still impressed. this was supposed robe about my fabric

A pinterest inspired recipe

2011-10-19T22:06:00.000-06:00

Have you heard of "pinterest"? It's kind of new and kind of weird to figure out, but it's really fun. It's kind of like google images in that you type in something you are interested in and pictures come up under that topic. There are people you "follow" and who "follow" you, kind of like *friend* on Facebook. So I can search organization and pictures with their original link come up. If I just go to my main page all the recent "pins" that my friends have marked come up. It covers lots of topics

SO! Here is a pinterest inspired idea. Homemade caramel is pretty much kryptonite to me yet I had to make some. I used gala apples I had and they were pretty good. In the back are some fast caramel apple slices-- er I had a meeting to get too. Whatever. Wish I could have made just half a batch cause all that caramel is still calling my name.

So that's where they are

2011-10-17T20:11:00.001-06:00

Joseph "hit the button" to do his part in his mission papers on September 16. It's been a little slower going than I ever would have predicted. Today I got a call from the stake missionary secretary. (a man in our stake that handles the leg work on the missionary papers that come in?) he said the dr hadn't filled out all the papers correctly so he, the man in our stake, couldn't do his part of the submission. I raced over and got the papers that needed more info, raced to the Lehi clinic then back to the mans house. I was so glad to get this glitch smoothed over in one day. Joseph still needs to visit with the stake president and we've been asked to wait for that invitation----- waiting..... Waiting..... BUT at least we know what stage the papers are in. I asked the man that called what the process was after I got him the completed papers. He said he needs to put the info in the computer, then Joseph will need to see the stake president. Then it will be up to 3 weeks for the call to come. Ok! Good to know. So there's the update on the papers. Btw, Joseph is wanting to keep his hair long curly until he goes to the temple. Eye yie yie.....

My Friend Mal

2011-10-17T07:16:00.000-06:00

On Google reader, I read a blog of one of Lauras friends. She's one of my friends too. She's so fun and perky and happy and smart. She's also a RM, which I love more and more every day ;) On her blog she talked about a personality test that she took, and she invited us to take it as well. So heres the test, and her challange-
Quoted from her blog
"So I just took this fun little personality test... this is link. How's about you take it and then post your results so I can see?! "
http://psychcentral.com/personality-patterns/

And here are my results. I'd say they are pretty accurate, though somethings are not true.

Passionate
You are in touch with your emotions, and sometimes you react before you think. The good news: you don't tamp down your feelings. The bad news: you sometimes say or do things that you later wish you could take back.
You do not live your life on an even keel; you do not go for long periods without experiencing some mood swings.

Warm
You have a genuine interest in other people. You're a natural host, and are always thinking about how you can increase the happiness of those around you. When friends have problems or are in trouble, you're usually the first person they turn to for aid and comfort. Scoring high on the "warm" trait suggests that you are among those who enjoy domestic activities — doing things around the house — and are enthusiastic about charitable work, helping others, and making the world a better place.
You don't always say exactly what you're thinking; you don't like the idea of causing anyone pain because of your criticism.

Understanding
You are willing to take the time to find out what's going on with other people, especially if they're in distress. You're a good listener, you don't criticize, and you offer unbiased, respectful, honest advice when it's requested. With a high score on the "understanding" trait, it is likely that you are enthusiastic about charitable work, helping others, and making the world a better place.
You don't feel the need to impose your standards on others or say things that, even though true, cause pain.

Tender
You are gentle with others, both physically and emotionally. You are careful not to upset people and go out of your way to find the nicest way to say something. You naturally focus on the fact that the world is full of wonderful people, places, and things. More often than not, people with a high score on the "tender" trait enjoy spending time with children, love romantic movies, and are enthusiastic about making the world a better place.
You don't think of yourself as tough-minded or gruff, nor do you need to be seen as some kind of objective source of truth and rationality.

Empathetic
You are in touch with your own feelings, which helps put you in touch with the feelings of others.
You don't buy the logic that your happiness comes ahead of everyone else's because unless you're happy you're incapable of making anyone else happy.

Sympathetic
You have a knack for knowing what's going on in the hearts and minds of those around you, without their having to tell you explicitly. People tend to turn to you with their problems because they know you care, and that you will likely offer good advice and a helping hand.
You do not feel that people with sad stories are just looking for attention, or have brought their problems upon themselves.

Friendly
You would rather hang out with others than spend time alone, and you'd far rather be doing something with your friends than just sitting around. You're happy in a crowded room, club, stadium, or auditorium.
You're not a private person who is ill at ease in a group; you don't view excessive socializing as a waste of time.

Rash
You get excited easily, allow yourself to react without censoring your feelings, and sometimes blurt out the first thing that comes to mind.
You generally don't consider what you're about to say before you open your mouth to speak.

Emotional
You let it all hang out, and those around you always know what you're going through.
You are not isolated from your emotions; no one would call you "cold-blooded," or even "cool as a cucumber."

Accessible
You're comfortable expressing yourself in words and actions, with no self-censorship. You believe that if someone doesn't like what they see it's not your problem, but theirs. A high score on the "accessible" trait suggests that you have a lot of friends, socialize often, and enjoy rap/hip-hop music.
You don't see the need to keep your thoughts to yourself, or to have a zone of privacy that encompasses only yourself and a small circle of friends and relatives.

Take the test and let me know how close it was to how you see yourself! kinda fun hua?

The pants-more difficult than it looks

2011-10-11T18:14:00.001-06:00

The coat

2011-10-11T18:12:00.001-06:00

The "day dress"

2011-10-11T18:11:00.001-06:00

Will sew for surprises

2011-10-11T17:40:00.004-06:00

well, it should say, will sew for happy surprises. Everyone that sews knows that sewing comes with a few frusterating surprises.

I was asked again this year to help sew for the jr high play. I really enjoy it and this year I sewed for 3 different kids, a few pieces each. Some pieces were a little tricky but I was able to turn in the last piece today. When I walked into the drama room to give the teacher the dress, I saw the other costumes there and some of them were ones I had sewn. It was a happy thing to see them. The deadline for the sewing was tomorrow, so I was happy to get the dress done this morning. I still may get to sew more, w'll see. I do need time to sweep and mop and feed my family and catch up on laundry. Ive just been baby-ing those jobs along. But I do enjoy the reason to hide down in the basement and sew with Dr Quinn on TV.
Last week one of the moms of a teenager I sewed for brought me flowers!! LOVED THEM!
Then today, a Dad of another of the actors brought me this!! WOW! NICE! well yes, of course Ill do something that challanges me and that I enjoy for treats! :)
It was a happy surprise! Ill try to post the pictures I took in the drama room of the things I sew-ed... I sewn? That I prepared on a sewing machine.

My little girl is 27

2011-10-04T23:05:00.001-06:00

Monday marked a special day. All day long I was thinking about what I was doing 27 years ago at the same moment of the day I was living now. Does that make any sense? 27 years ago I had my first baby. My Laura. The beginning of a whole new education I thought I was prepared for-- and I still think I was in lots of ways but not all of them.
Laura spent her 27th birthday on a huge boat with her two best boys. I'm glad she had a great special day but I missed her. I missed making her a cake or going out for lunch. This birthday thing is more a mama thing than I ever realized.
Happy birthday my girl. Thanks for helping me learn how to be a mama and making your dad and my dreams come true. You are wonderful and beautiful and amazing. We both love you more than you'll know

Picture of the day

2011-10-04T22:55:00.000-06:00

White handkerchiefs and the sign on the wall by the soon to be #2 temple in Provo!!!

Look what came today!!

2011-09-28T03:19:00.000-06:00

Yes! So pleased with this almost free happiness! I'm saving it for Christmas though I think I'm the one that is most impressed with it. Have you ordered yours?

a great idea

2011-09-23T14:23:00.000-06:00

My friend Mandy was recently on KSL studion 5 showing ways to keep memories. Here's a link to her blog, and the good deal I just scored, pictured above.
$40.00 worth of paper corterie things could knock out one or two Christmas gifts!!

http://mandydouglass.blogspot.com/2011/09/studio-5-capturing-growth-moments.html

What's a cat lover to do?

2011-09-22T22:08:00.004-06:00

Oy!!
heres the story! Last week I was downstairs sewing. One of my favorite things to do actually. Sweetie kitty and even Oz like to jump up on the counter and jump out the window, then jump up to the grass level and play around. The window by the sewing machine is the only place they can come and go as they please, as long as the window is open. There is obviously no screen on that window. So all is going well, when I run upstairs for some reason. Just as I come down the stairs I see sweetie-kitty coming in the window with a SNAKE in her mouth. She sometimes catches snakes and brings them to the back door. The snakes have always played dead, and we scoop it up with a dust pan and throw it in the bushes, only to have it disappear a few hours later. So when I saw her bring in this snake in, I figured, ew, gross, as soon as she drops it, it will play dead, and we can throw it outside. Ummmm, nope. She put it down, and it slithered about. I froke out and called to Jacob, Joseph and Jenner (a bud that hangs out here sometimes) Jacob used a piece of interfacing to grab the snake and throw it back out to the window well. I didnt want it that close, but I did want it outside the most, so I was ok with it. So..... I calm down about that after a few days. I figure it was a fluke, an innocent cat thing to do. Okay.
Well, this morning, I woke up after taking a sleep aid and felt really happy that I slept ok with out David here. I sat up in bed and heard sweetie kitty under my bed. I checked my email on my phone, and my schedule. When I went to get out of bed, I saw a little shocking something. A snake all coiled on my side of the bed, on the carpet. It was thankfully playing dead or it was dead. Joseph was the only one home with me at 8:30 am, so I got off the end of my bed and ran down the stairs to have him come help me. He lifted it up and examined it, and said he could tell it had been bitten or hurt somehow--- He flung it out by the hydrangas. I went in to get ready for the day and saw a little crime scene where the tail was left and a little blood was on the carpet and the tile---I cleaned up the crime scene and took the rug out to the garage. I was, again, FROKE OUT!!
I broke all the rules, but getting peanut butter M & Ms and a twix and went shopping at RodWorks, a home decor place near by. Im still a little frazzeled--- I think the kitty found the snake in our garage and brought it in through the kitty door. UGGGGGGHHH--- maybe we have to lock that kitty door for a while. sheesh

2011-09-22T22:07:00.002-06:00

This, the detached tail

2011-09-22T21:33:00.001-06:00

This plus----

2011-09-22T21:32:00.001-06:00

Equals this

2011-09-22T21:31:00.001-06:00

And this

2011-09-22T21:30:00.000-06:00

Look what I made!

2011-09-19T22:44:00.001-06:00

Considering my last post

2011-09-17T22:29:00.001-06:00

I walked in the little grocery store right by my house today and look what I saw! I almost laughed cause it made me think of my last post. I wasn't there to buy cookies- and I certainly didn't want those cookies calling my name all day, but honestly how could I pass these babies up?

Reasons to love living in Utah part 1.

2011-09-16T21:41:00.001-06:00

Happy picture of the day

2011-09-07T23:45:00.000-06:00

Day 19 – a picture of somewhere you'd like to travel

2011-09-02T17:28:00.001-06:00

remember this little challange? ha ha, ya, in Januaray. Well here's day 19! "Somewhere I'd like to travel"-
I must say first that I never ever ever thought I'd have the chance to travel as much as I have. My parents weren't big travelers. We'd go to Idaho and Utah from California, but that is about it.
Dave has had the opportunity to travel internationally for work, so I've been able to go with him on a few occasions. My good husband has been really good about planning family vacations. We've been to many places I never thought I'd go. I'm so thankful for all those opportunities and the memories we've made traveling with the family. We've gone north to Canada, and Montana and East to NY and Virgina, and West the pacific NW and California and even to Hawaii. I could actually die now and be a happy woman with all the places I've been. However! That all is not the assignment, so though we've been there before, I'd have to say the number one place I would love to go is.....

my can hear my children groaning now

Back to having 5, at least for tonight

2011-08-29T21:35:00.001-06:00

Tonight we ended up with 3 extra young men at FHE. It was great. For this mama that keeps loosing kids, it was great to have so many with us. Last night we had one extra friend, Jenner, for "spiritual time". David taught the boys how to consecrate oil for the healing of the sick. It was a great discussion and Joseph was able to consecrate some oil. That event lead to some great questions so tonight we watched a conference talk from last fall by Elder Oaks. One of these visitors is one month behind Joseph in preparing for the mission. I'm not sure what the other guys plans are but either way they were all attentive and respectful during our FHE. It was just 25-30 minutes king, but it was a great FHE!!

for my next lesson- mute the music on the right side first

2011-08-25T19:27:00.002-06:00

Should we come to Hawaii again

2011-08-22T13:18:00.001-06:00

Mornings are very slow. You'll want to wake up at 4:30 am for the day but you can sleep in until 9. That's 1:00 pm Utah time

If you don't want to sleep in, hit
the beach early like by 7 or 8. The crowds are non existent so parking is a breeze. The sun isn't too intense so the whole sunscreen issue is relaxed as well. You'll be done after an hour so you can go back as sleep or just start your other adventures after that.

It's not like So Cal with a jack in the box across the street, so you have to bring your own snacks and drinks.

Sunsets are not to be missed, but for me, bedtime soon followed. Even though it's only 7 at night the Utah time factor is very real.

Good water shoes are so awesome, as well as a good effective sun hat.

Have mac-nuts and pineapple everyday in some form, not too much. Just some.

Our busy summer-

2011-08-20T00:49:00.002-06:00

May 12-15
19-21
Two weekends of wood badge camp- David
May 22-Mission farewell, open house
May 23- Houston miracle (David could be in town for Aubrey's leaving on the 25)
May 25- departure to MTC
June 2- Joseph graduation
June 2- grandbaby #2 announced
June 9- Jacobs license
June 10 Jacobs first date
June 16-18 Youth conference
June 20-22 Girls camp
Jacob ordained a priest
June 28- July 5 Virginia reunion/ DC
July 14-16 Solo idaho trip Idaho reunion
July 15-Harry Potter 7.2 in Idaho opening day
July- Read "learned optimism"- I'm a pessimist. Bummer
July 26- August 13
3 weeks in a row of scout camp for Jacob
July 30- Sundance outdoor theater. Sound of music
July 31- Joseph ordained an Elder
August 4-Wedding shower- Sara
August 6-Wedding & then reception at my house
August 10 The Help opening day
August 11 & 12 Kim graduation
August 12 scera shell outdoor theater- Aida
Aug 15-23 Hawaii

A great break

2011-08-20T00:44:00.000-06:00

After a good and busy summer we have been fortunate to run off to Hawaii for a few days. Two years ago we bought a voucher for a vacation in hawaii on a really great deal. It would have expired in October. So we decided to use them this month. It's been a super good summer and this get away is perfect for us. We've been so involved in different things that to stop everything is very relaxing. We've been staying in Kona but we have not even taken a picture of the coffee everyone wants us to drink. We do love the "ah sigh ee" bowls though. Sorbet type smooth berry at the bottom, granola and fresh fruit drizzled with honey is great. We also had alcohol free peenya coladas. I know. Such a non islander to not know how to spell those words. Ah well. I did buy a Hawaiian blouse so I fit in better and now David and I are a match! It's been a great break but when it's over I'll be happy to be home. This is a great time!

A very good day

2011-08-11T20:13:00.001-06:00

Today Kimmie graduated from BYU. It's been such a hard road for her. Dancing has taken it's toll on my girl. With all the bumps and bruises and disappointments and the surgeries on her feet, and crutches in the winter weather, the schooling was rougher than anyone predicted. But she did it! So proud of my girl. All her set backs and her perseverance and determination adds more to the fact that she graduated. I couldn't help but get all teary and emotional as the music started. Then every blond girl that came in fooled me and I thought they were her. Joseph was able to come but Laura and Steve were working and Jacob is at timberline scout camp but we still had a nice time. More ceremony tomorrow- it's a good day!

Picture of the day yesterday

2011-08-01T08:16:00.001-06:00

found this and it made me so happy,

2011-07-21T11:48:00.000-06:00

I was blog hopping, and found this site http://idoparties.blogspot.com/
this picture makes me so happy even thought I have no clue who these guys are. Had to share

a fun little something for nine bucks

2011-07-18T23:10:00.000-06:00

When I cant sleep at night I sometimes read blogs on my bloglist. I found this great lead for a little journal. It costs about $9 for shipping, but the book is free. how ever that works out--- books only "cost 3.99" to ship from amazon...what ever. I figure its a good deal for the customized journal cover. Heres the link
https://www.papercoterie.com/promo/journals/
see what fun you can have
the promo only goes till the 20 of this month, so ya gotta get a move on if you want to cash in on this deal.
Ill post a picture when I get the one I made.

Much to catch up on

2011-07-10T17:01:00.001-06:00

I've taken a few pictures to blog about but this one takes front and center now. Last night Jacob and friends were playing night games ad there was a running head on collision of two young men. Jacob took it in the knee. He texted me about 10 pm saying he had "busted up" his knee but he was staying at his buddies house for awhile longer. I figured he wasn't hurt to badly if he wasn't headed home. Some time later as I dozed, I heard him say goodnight to David then heard him painfully going down the stairs. About 3 am I woke with that feeling that someone was watching me. I looked over and Jacob was on Davids side of the bed crying in pain. He asked for a blessing and we contemplated taking him to the ER. Jacob wanted to try to get some sleep and wanted to wait for an e r visit. Today he missed church and we went to the hospital this afternoon. Thankfully there is no bone involvement bit possible cartilage or ligament problems. They put him in a brace, gave us some pain meds, and instructions to see an orthopedic doctor. So there it is. I did snap a picture in the ER an Jacob played it up with a little drama. Enjoy ;)

Youth conference

2011-06-18T22:46:00.001-06:00

Graduation day! YES its official

2011-06-09T12:59:00.002-06:00

all around, a great day

2011-05-25T22:36:00.002-06:00

Today we dropped Aubrey off at the MTC. It was the day we have waited for since January 4. It was time to get this thing going!!
I started a blog for my missionary girl and posted pictures of her day on that blog.

Here are a few pictures of how I calmed down from a first kinda nervous, excited, sad, happy and monumental day.

Tender mercies

2011-05-22T21:17:00.001-06:00

Saturday Aubrey and I set out early to get food and items. Our first stop we saw Brother Packer from our Lehi ward. We talked about the mission and he wished her well. I started having nagging thoughts about how we should be having the farewell with people that know and love Aubrey, people that have seen her grow up. I was kinda bummed about that. But then some angels got to work and we ended up running into many Lehi loved ones. We saw Sister Ball, Pres and Sister Raines, and one of Aubs HS buds (pictured) then later some more Raines. I think a few more. Awesome!! How often does that happen in one day? It did my heart so !good! to see familiar faces while AJ and I ran around. Familiar! As in family. Tonight the bishop and stake president came over to set Aubrey apart. I partially wished it was Bishop Bailey and Pres Raines. I still long for our Lehi family.
Our current ward and stake are great though and maybe it is the right time for us to be here. I have to believe that. I gotta. Pres. Anderson and bishop Johnson are great and so kind to us.
Being surrounded by so many loving kind people of God is a huge tender mercy.

A new yummy treat

2011-05-12T23:12:00.000-06:00

A new friend in my Highland ward told me about a new little snack. The basic ideas is to put about 1/2 c of the frozen berries in a cereal bowl and defrost in the microwave. When it is warm-ish pour on 1-2 tablespoons of the French vanilla creamer. All amounts are really as much as you want, and you can even keep the berries frozen if you want, and you can use any kind of fruit too. Its pretty yummy. It was Ginas idea, but now it's Connie's. ;)

The new water fun

2011-05-12T23:06:00.000-06:00

Today the water feature really took shape. The water even flowed for a little while. I was so excited when I heard the water. Dave is going to really be stoked. The water was about 8 inches deep when I saw it but I was told they still had to put more rocks in to cover the liner. The finished depth will only be about 3 inches.

Looking south

2011-05-12T23:02:00.000-06:00

Let the water flow

2011-05-12T23:01:00.000-06:00

what we have been up to

2011-05-10T20:58:00.000-06:00

We are in the heat of May. Don’t worry, it’s not literally hot—Its barely even warm actually. We are in the heat of the end of the school year, and the ever hovering question as to how the grades will pan out. Joseph got a new job that he is training for 7 hours a day for the next 2 weeks! I hardly see him. Kimmie is busy with school, (she graduates in August) Kneaders, and an internship she has with a physical therapist office near our home. Dave is going to be out of town much of the month, and we are of course closing in on the missionary preparation. Oddly, the bishopric hasn’t mentioned a farewell talk for Aubrey yet. I’m not sure what to do about it. We are new here…. It’s not my place….. 8)
We are also fulfilling a commitment on one of the negotiation points of moving to this home. A part of the lot was kind of wilderness area, and not really usable. The boys wanted a place for the trampoline, and we told them we could clear out the wilderness area to give our yard some romping space. We have a few machines out there and the work is progressing even though there is a lot of rain. There was a water feature started out in the yard, which we are going to fully finish and hopefully not regret 
It will be beautiful. I always thought the previous owner, Laurie did a great job with her choices on the plants in the yard. But this spring there is a lot of maintenance that needs to be done. I’m not a plant person. I am not a sun person, and I’m not a mud, bugs, or grime person. But, David is out of town, so I am tackling it myself. Thankfully Aubrey is more than happy to help and she is brilliant. (I do get a little aggression out with the clippers its true) I fear that because I’ve done it once, the job will now be mine……. Oh please no. So here’s a few pictures of my work. I really should have taken before pictures, but please know it was a nightmare before Aub and I took care of it!

A sister missionary shower

2011-05-10T20:32:00.000-06:00

Last week my family, my big family honored Aubrey with the very first ever Sister Missionary Shower. We have had several Shirt and Tie parties for the Elders leaving from our family, but AJ is the first Sister representing us. It was such a fun time with yummy food and plenty of Sister Missionary type gifts. Here’s a few pictures for ya.

Once again, a gentle lesson from a stranger.

2011-05-04T08:53:00.000-06:00

I'm not sure its appropriate that I write these thoughts. They have been heavily on my mind, and my heart. Just the other day there was a recent happening in our community that has been fore front in my mind. Several loved ones are closer to the situation than me certainly, but as any human being, the compassion I feel is deep. This was pasted on facebook, so I don't feel like I am breaching any privacy in posting it here.

As many of you know Wendy passed away Saturday night April 30, 2011. There have been many questions asked about the details of her passing. Instead of having Denny recount the events over and over again the details are being posting here on Wendy’s facebook page and soon on their family blog @ dennyandwendy.blogspot.com.

Saturday started as a normal day. Wendy and her family had fun attending Dallin’s soccer game in the morning, she played with her family all day, and ended the day with a fun church activity. After putting the kids down for the night Wendy and Denny laid in bed together and watched some television and talked excitedly about their future plans with Denny’s recent acceptance into medical school. Around 9:30 pm Wendy complained about lower back pain. She got out of bed and started pacing the room to try and relieve the pain when she told Denny that something was seriously wrong and then she collapsed to the ground. Denny immediately jumped to her aid. Wendy wasn’t breathing so Denny started CPR and chest compressions and continued until the paramedics arrived. Wendy was transported by ambulance to American Fork hospital where they performed an emergency C-section to try and save her baby girl. Wendy was pronounced dead shortly after they took the baby. The baby, Maylee Wendy Mack, was in critical condition and was flown to the NICU at IMC in Murray. Little Maylee continued on life support until early Monday morning where after a beautiful blessing given to her by her father the breathing tubes were removed and she quietly and peacefully slipped away to be with her mother.

Our hearts are broken with the loss of these two precious lives.

Wendy is survived by her husband Denny and their three children; Dallin (6), Kenna (4), and Evan (2).

There is nothing more important to Wendy than family and at this time her little family needs your help. Due to Wendy being born with a heart condition a life insurance policy on Wendy was out of reach for this young family. Medical bills are sure to come on top of the normal day to day expenses. We can provide a little relief for Denny and the kids by donating financial assistance giving them time together to heal without a stress that daily life brings. A memorial fund has been set up at Wells Fargo under the name “Wendy Kimball Mack Memorial”. Please take the time to donate at your nearest Wells Fargo Branch. You can also make a donation through paypal.com @ account "hoverlover75@yahoo.com" which is Denny’s brother’s account and then all donations will be transferred from there into the memorial fund. No donation is too small!

You are very loved Wendy and little Maylee! You will be deeply missed!

I didn't know this family at all, yet sweet Wendy is teaching me. She's teaching me and reminding me the truth, and of my gratitude, for forever families. She's teaching me that my "worries of the day" are so livable and doable. She's teaching me to build my faith on the rock of my Savior so that when the dark clouds crash and and the storms descend, I can be reassured of eternal peace and a loving God. And though all may seem hopeless there is a bigger plan and a wiser purpose for things that happen here on earth.

David may be committed to giving a presentation in Canada on the 25th, (the day we were supposed to go to Disneyland j/k) water came out Jacobs electrical outlet last night when I was taking a bath (?!),
grades from LHS are a little worrisome,
we cant get our family together for family pictures before the mission,
life is full of inconveniences and problems----
but they are so okay, so livable.

My life is beautiful, full of beautiful and loving people. Things are wonderful. Thank you Wendy for reminding me. I pray for the peace of your husband and your parents and your big family. My heart is heavy for them.

Day whatever 19? 20? Whatever

2011-05-01T23:01:00.000-06:00

A favorite memory. Yep our engagement photo!! Love love love it. Davies brother in law took our pictures for us at Bridal Veil Falls in June or July 1983. On that afternoon he accidentally dropped his lens cap in the little pond where he was standing on rocks to get a nice shot of us. He told us it had fallen and the water was kind of swirling and moving. He reached down to to see if he could find it and he pulled it right up- cool miracle. But that isn't the best memory part, just a fun little memory. The best part is how happy I was to e engaged to my good husband!
What! A! Catch!!
This last weekend I saw lots of tv coverage of a royal wedding. The bride was beautiful, her dress was gorgeous and classic, her wedding guests were plentiful and famous, her chapel was traditional and majestic and her groom would one day be a king of their country. But, sorry Kate, I really took the prize when I got married. My dress cost 100.00 and it was sewn by my loving mother. My wedding guests all really cared about me and my David and our eternal union. my "chapel" was built by pioneer forefathers and was and is very sacred. My groom will someday be king of a celestial country, and his vows with me were also with God, and David will be honorable to all those vows.
What an amazing blessing and memory!

Look what came in the mail

2011-05-01T22:47:00.000-06:00

So! We are inside the one month mark on the countdown to the big MTC date. It's hitting both Aubrey and I. Part of me is so ready for her to get on her way! Get to that mission experience! But part of me is kinda faltering. I've been reading other missionary's blogs that are serving in AJs mission, and they refer to all the rain there--- and it's now May--- and old memories of the past creep in.
It's a test I tell you. I've already decided to give this heartache to God, but I have to keep reminding myself.
So! We are checking off things on the list and almost ready!! It really is exciting. I realized this month that I now enter into the Missionary Mom phase of my life. I've seen sisters and friends do this over and over and now it's my turn to be string and faithful and 100% whole wheat! This is my goal. I'll try to wither my sniveling over sensitive inexperienced part of my self away--- hope I get to go to Disneyland

Watch out pride TV

2011-04-21T21:27:00.000-06:00

Last night, Joseph was messing with the fancy video camera that belongs to the high school. He had used it earlier in the week to make a video to ask a girl to prom. So while he had the camera up, I started talking to the turned off camera like it was taping for the prom-girl. I said something like "ok he's asked you out but I expect you to wear a modest dress. My son doesnt need any distractions from a girl that he thinks so much off. The world shows so much...." yak yak yak. You get the idea. Well as quick as a wink Joseph said. I need to make a film about mothers day. Can I just ask you some questions about mothers day for Pride TV? Pride tv is part of what they play during second period for the whole school as they make announcements. So with 30 seconds of preparations we made a little film. He says it will play tomorrow at LHS. After we were done, I thought of all the other things I could have said. Oh well. Joseph did end the video with giving me a kiss in the cheek. Wonder if that will make the editing cut. I'll try and pos the video if I can get it. I'll let you know.
The picture is of the video camera screen. Didn't come out very good

I so love my brother

2011-04-21T21:16:00.000-06:00

Now and then I go out to lunch with my parents. Often one or more of my siblings can come with us. The other day Jim met us at Jason's deli. It's always fun to talk to everyone but that day at Jason's was truly wonderful. For some reason we chose a table near the salad bar, the ice cream dispenser and the drink refill station. As we were eating we noticed the quality of the different peoples ice cream cones. Some were really pathetic, while others were almost professional. Jim and I started rating the ice cream cones that passed our way. Eventually Jim got a rating system going and as the ice cream passed us he would hold up the score. Unfortunately, no one besides us noticed the game. we did laugh a lot. I do admit we were easier in the male contestants--- we started thinking about rating the salads but that wasn't nearly as fun. It's true what my parents told me my whole life, my siblings are my best friends.

More of Memories day 4

2011-04-13T22:08:00.001-06:00

I had to include this picture

Making memories day 4

2011-04-13T22:07:00.001-06:00

Today we went to the SLC temple. We all had a nice experience. Later Aubrey and I asked if we could see the brides room. That is where I went before I was sealed to Dave. ;) it was so nice. The temple wasn't busy at all. In fact there were no marriages done today so it was all very calm and perfect for a little family outing. We ended up walking around temple square and going to get tasty italian sandwiches as Granatos, then to look around the gateway shopping area. We looked around a bit then I went over to barnes and noble. We had seen steve in the apple store so we knew the clarks were nearby but I had no idea where Laura and Jack were. As I was browsing, I heard a little guy kinda fussing and I thought it sounded like Jack. The best moment of the day was when I saw Laura and Jack and Aubrey all together but they didn't see me. When Jack spotted me before the girls he yelled Gamma! Laura let him down and he came over, took my hand to show me the awesome train they had. Unfortunately, he had other things to do so he and his mom left for a bit. Later we all got to see the train table and it WAS very amazing.

Making memories day 3

2011-04-13T09:29:00.000-06:00

Tuesday was all about sleeping in and finding a place to go sledding. We found a spot not far from Brighton and spent a bit of time there. Everyone had a blast and we even got some unexpected sun. We hit a local place for fish tacos after sledding then we all took naps. later, we stomped around main street. We only stopped in three places- the ice cream place, the Rocky Mt chocolate factory and a time share place cause the guy came out and talked to us first. His little office was warm, but we didn't bite at his offer to play the time-share-pitch game~~. Back home we watched cupcake wars while we shares the goods from the chocolate stop ;)

Making memories day 2

2011-04-13T09:21:00.000-06:00

Monday we went up to the Olympic park where the competition ski runs are, as well as training facilities. We had a fun interesting time looking around and taking the tour. We later found a little place to eat. It was called Good Thymes I think. Here's Jack kicking back with his favorite beverage and his favorite show, Dora the Explora. Having him here is such a delight. The boys especially love his little 2 yr old ways.

Making memories day one

2011-04-13T09:17:00.001-06:00

While planning for our vacation 2011, we came up with the idea to split it into two weeks rather than two weeks in the east, later in the summer. While Aubrey was still here and the boys are out of school we took the opportunity to head up to Park City. I'm not a huge Park City fan but it's close to home. Here's a sample shot from our first day. Ya, built in bunk beds. Jacob had about 1 inch to spare. It ended up that the sister missionary took the bunk. The boys are upstairs in twin beds. This condo is kinda close quarters but it adds to the family togetherness we are after.

Where I've been recently

2011-04-10T18:13:00.001-06:00

Last week I spent almost every evening at Lehi High School. Jacob was in the spring musical Titanic. Typically when I go see a show I've never seen before, the whole evening seems to last f o r e v e r! Then, the more I see the show the more I like it, and think about it and start repeating the songs in my head. So it went with this show. Jacob played the part of Herbert Pittman, third officer to the Captain Wednesday night I really felt the emotion and got caught up in the anguish and sadness of the tragedy. The people that were depicted in the show were actual people on the ship. There was no Jack/ Rose people. There was an older couple (Strauss, part owners in Macy's department store) on board that ended up refusing the life boats so they could stay (and therefore die) together. The take home messages for me were that evils of pride and greed and the uselessness of blame. Did honorable men really step aside so women and children could get on the life boats? Did the owner of the Titanic, a selfish "blameless" man, really sneak on the life boat? As I looked at real pictures from April 14, 1912 and the following days my mind naturally went to tragedies that have happened in my life time. Thiughts of innocent peoples death and suffering and their loved ones wondering who has survived and how his thing happened. Japan, NYC, Haiti... There's enough heartache to go around. Some of these things come from evil and greed.
How would I respond in these kind of situations? It's a deep thinking question.
My boy did so well. He had a few solo and several speaking parts. He was very striking on stage and I got several complements on his performance. Though all the rehearsals and expenses and time back and forth is a pain, the final performances are incredibly satisfying. My boy is the tall one in the middle. ;)

It's ok, Dave's not going to be arrested

2011-04-08T15:18:00.001-06:00

Got something interest in the mail. A notice that David will have a warrant for his arrest at the end of the month. Apparently he has ignored a parking ticket from when he parked near the HS. During the week--- the work week. hummmm
So the real story came out and now one of my kids is comforting another one of my kids as they both have issues with tickets.

Connie

A few of my recent favorite things

2011-03-25T23:36:00.000-06:00

Well, I really like reading other peoples *favorite things*. Unfortunately the one gal that sometimes blogged about some of her favorite things bumped me off her blog-- oh well. So now I share just a few of my newish finds.
* the bodycology bubble bath is the most satisfying bubble bath I've used in my awesome bath tub.
*skintiment in-shower shaving lotion, or maybe moisturizing lotion makes my legs nice and smooth and nice to sleep with rather than the prickly alternative.
*Boogie wipes I found these at Walmart and maybe even at Maceys. They are grape scented baby wipes. My little friend seemed to not mind being cleaned up with these wipes. First time I used them on Jack, he wanted to put them in his mouth. Thankfully, they don't have any flavor because that would cause more problems than they solve.
There ya have it, a few things to try upon my happy recommendation.

Day 17 – your favorite website

2011-03-18T19:24:00.000-06:00

hummm, thats a toughie. I do love Facebook and have been able to catch up with so many friends from the past. I also love food.com for recipes and recipe reviews, as well as allrecipes.com
I also love blogs that teach me things or inspire me, but I really LOVE blogs of my friends and family. It feels so great to know more what is going on in their lives.

Getting ready for woman's conference

2011-03-18T10:10:00.002-06:00

Thursday was the prep day for BYU s woman's conference. I was there from 9:30-2:00 and again from 5:30- umm 8:30? I came home tired and sore. The evening was spent winding a million sticks with the crocheen thread. We had a lot to do and not many came--- sorry gotta finish later. Baby is here

Im back. So when not many came, I called my troops in. Joseph and Jacob came even though it might be awkward for them being the only males there. Aubrey was with me already. As we described and got into the project Jacob realized there was a better way to accomplish the task. He and Joseph went back for the drill. They left about 8 for the promised pay off, and Aub and I stayed until the job was finished. It was a long good day.

2011-03-18T10:02:00.001-06:00

Joseph winding string on the popsicle stick

2011-03-18T10:01:00.001-06:00

Jacob figured a drill was the answer

2011-03-18T10:00:00.001-06:00

The reward was cafe rio

Day 16 – a song that makes you cry

2011-03-14T13:08:00.000-06:00

I had to put this on my auto play playlist. Sorry Camille for the auto start :) I couldnt figure out how to do a link from youtube.
Hold on my heart from Genesis
I usually cant get through this song with out tearing up. A dearly loved friend, who has had more broken hearts than I care to count, told me once that this is a song about him. Nobody should be alone. No one deserves to be so hurt