End of Year

As 2008 ends it is time to think about all the different things that have happened over the year.

January - That seemed so long ago, I am not sure what was going on. We were probably recovering. I braved the retail season and I sure I have no a clue what happened during that month.

February - It was birthday month but before that was able to happen, I was so sick. I mean in bed for 5 days sick. Princess Girly Girls and Menji's birthday are on the same day but the day went by and I managed to throw a quick party for Emma with a few friends but it was not the birthday party marathon like it usually is. Poor Menji, he did not get much of a birthday. I then got on a plane and headed to Alabama for a scrapbooking retreat. That was a blast but I still was not feeling up to par and went to bed really early every night drunk on couch syrup and decongestants. I also went to see Stacy where we put together our Biggest Loser audition video. We had help and I still think it is a great video. Sadly we did not get chosen but we decided to go ahead with our weight loss together and I think we have done a great job.

This month also brought Sherry closer to me, as in living closer to me. YEAH! A wonderful friendship has bloomed because we are closer and we have had some fun times.

I also managed to fit in working at the CHA show again with Pebbles Inc. That is always a blast. Long days but so much fun.

March - Princess Girl Girly was baptized and it was a wonderful day. It was also bittersweet because she is growing up so fast. We went with Brooks and Adriana to see Phantom of the Opera. Good times! We love hanging out with them and having fun!

Youth Conference was this month. We again hosted 8 girls. It was a post it note fun time. Staying up late, giggles, having spiritual fun and being toilet papered TWICE. This month also brought the arrival of a new Dyson Vacuum. Ahhhh, I love that vacuum.

It was also Easter and we had lots of fun goofing around with the Easter eggs.

April - Princess Girls Girls 14th birthday! I am so not ready for her to be older. We also spent some time at American Girl Place. That is always fun. PS also had a swim injury and we decided to take time off swimming waiting for that to heal. So that was the what would become the end of swim club.

May - Brought the arrival of the Wii and Wii Fit. We have has so much fun with the Wii. I also traveled to Texas for my birthday and a retreat. That was a blast. It was a wonderful retreat centre and I got to meet a ton of people that I have wanted to meet for a while from my scrapbooking board. Good times!

It was also the month that the new camera came out that I really wanted. I waited a few months before purchasing but it gave me something to think about.

June - Eighth grade promotion for Princess Seriously. Again, so not ready. It was also Girls Camp Month, the beginning of water polo for PS and the beginning of being a taxi mom. I did receive a promotion at work but in the end it ended up not being the right thing a few months later. It was a busy month just running everyone everywhere.

July - Party time for 4th of July. We love those parties! Friends, BBQ and swimming. We had a wonderful day and evening. We were having so much fun we missed the fireworks because we were having to much fun.

We also took some time off to have some family adventures. We headed out to the beach, The Grove back to the American Girl Place and back out to the beach. It was a great time for all and we had a blast. It was so needed.

We spent lots of time in the pool, playing Rock Band until late into the wee hours of the morning. PS was still in water polo and PGG was getting ready to play soccer.

August - I stopped working in retail. It was just time. School started, water polo and soccer was in full swing and we were always in the car. School brought the beginning of high school for PS and 3rd grade for PGG. All I know is that we spent a ton of time on the soccer field. PS was refereeing and PGG was playing her heart out. It was also freaking HOT!

September - The new camera and the beginning of my photography business. I have had so much fun. I can not even begin to tell you.

Menji and I headed out to Nascar Weekend. I also secured a retreat center for a retreat I am hosting in June of 2009. I am so excited. I think this was the month that PS, Sherry and her DD headed out to see Barlow Girls. That was a blast.

October - That brought 16 years of marriage, WOW!

This month was also a really hard month as Danny returned to heaven. I still pray and think of him daily. I pray for his family and loved ones daily. I still can not believe it happened all so fast.

I also headed out to a retreat where we did a special balloon release in his honor. There were many balloon releases in his honor.

Aleksei turned THREE! I can not believe how big he is. WOW. We has so much fun at his party where I took over 400 pictures to capture all the fun that he and his friends had.

November - We traveled to Arizona for Nascar, saw my Dad, hung out with friends. I also ran over a huge truck tread and did a little damage to the truck. We had a great time hanging out with our dear friends, Melanie and Darren. We always have a blast with them. We had great seats.

Is was historical voting as we voted for a new president

December - It is always a busy month, baking, tamales, dinners. We also made some life changes and moved lots of stuff around in house.

We are looking forward to starting a new year, hopefully full of joy, fun and laughter. May you all have a wonderful New Year.

Snow play

I mentioned that we wanted to head out to the snow, right? Well on Sunday we headed out with some friends and hit the snow. I do believe that everyone else woke up and had the same thought. It took twice the time that is normally takes to get up the mountain and then it was packed EVERYWHERE. At one point the kids were bouncing off the walls of the car because they could see all this snow but could not touch it. We pulled off to the side and just let them play.

Ok, before I go on, I have officially renamed DH to his nickname, Menji. Many of you already know him as that but, I decided to make him official.

Menji got out of the car and I think we were on a turn out but all the kids piled out and got to work. The Menji also took out his camera and went to work taking pictures. I was really too chicken to take mine out which make no sense because his and mine are almost the same but then his viewfinder fogged up and appeared to have water in it and I freaked out! So I was happy that I left my camera in the car. Then I took it out snapped about 4 pictures and put it back away. When we checked it this morning all seemed to be well. So cross your fingers for the camera.





Did you know that playing in the snow is hard work? We are all sore this morning. There are more pictures but I wanted to get this post up instead of making you all wait.

Christmas Recap

On Christmas Eve, Eve was run around like mad and get everything done. We have a couple of last minute things to do which turned into and all day event. Like a was holding a piece of the vacuum in my hand. DH got it called in for service but I needed to take it in. Great. Due to the holidays it is going to take at least two weeks to get the part in and get it taken care of. Well given my love affair with the Dyson's it is a good thing that I have second one. I can still vacuum, I just have to lug it up and down the stairs which may not be a bad thing. The next thing on our list was to hit Old Navy so we can hit the snow this weekend. There is tons of snow in our mountains. So we went there to get beanies and gloves. WooHoo! We hit a couple of other places but it is all a blur now.

It was time to come home and start the baking. I actually found cinnamon chips and bought all the bags that were in the store. All seven of them. So we made 3 dozen oatmeal raisin cinnamon chip cookies. Two dozen chocolate chip cookies and then the girls frosted some of those. In the midst of all that craziness, I was making tamales and dinner. Chicken enchiladas, beans and rice for that dinner. Chicken Mole for the tamales. So 4 dozen tamales later we were set for the beginning for delivering Christmas goodies. Before we could do that, The Rassmussen's stopped by to Carole us and bring treats!!! It was so cute to have the 3 boys and parents singing to us. I should have taken a picture!

Christmas Eve started with a breakfast for us at work. IHOP here we came. We exchanged Secret Santa gifts and chatted away at breakfast. Then I did a quick stop at Sherry's to drop off their Christmas Yummy's. I got to meet her adorable Grandmother and give Naomi a morning hug! When I returned home my Mother in law (MIL) was already working hard on the Turkey that we were going to eat later. See a Salvadorean Turkey is very different from your normal turkey. It is so juicy and yummy, capers and olives YUM! There is no way to describe it beside YUM. We sat around that table laughing and giggling about silly things, like the first time I ever ate that turkey. DH invited me over for Christmas Eve dinner, the day before we got engaged and I was not prepared. I really did pick at it and poor MIL was so offended because it appeared I did not like it. Well that was before I decided that trying new food was not such a bad thing. See I used to be SUPER picky. Now not so much. So well back to dinner, the turkey is served with rice, salad and french bread. We all sat around and laughed and just had fun.

Once we cleaned up a bit, it was time for more Christmas Eve fun. Off to see the neighborhood lights. There is a street where is seems the neighbors are in a contest to see who could possibly put more lights up. I confess I got a little cranky when Princess Girly Girl got tired of posing but off we went. There was a gingerbread house to put together. That took a little more time then we thought but it was funny to hear DH and the girls laughing about it. Once that was done it was time to clean up, put out Christmas Cookies for Santa and carrots for the reindeer. We have a tradition of reading the same Christmas Story every year. Dh read that to us and then it was time to open one present before bed. The tradition of pajamas continued. We sent the girls up to bed and waited. We did everything that needed to be done and went off to bed.








Now, Christmas morning we got to sleep in!! The girls continued the tradition of sleeping in!!! Yeah! There are some Christmas mornings that we go wake up the girls because we can not wait any longer. We waited this year. It was a fun morning of opening presents, ohhhhing and ahhhhing over the fun gifts. Then Dh and I made an awesome breakfast of omelets and all the fixings. A couple of weeks ago, when MIL joined us we decided it was time to renew a Christmas Tradition that we had a few years ago when she was with us before. Christmas Movie! Off to the movies we all went to see Bedtime Stories. It is a great movie. We all laughed and had a good time. Once we got home we started dinner of turkey and more laughter. While we missed our friends and our usual Christmas Dinner, we did have lots of fun renewing some old traditions. After dinner, it was a relaxing evening watching the girls play with there new things and relaxing on the couch.





It all had to come to an end and we headed to bed to go back to the rat race the next day.

Merry Christmas!

Have a wonderful day!

Nativity Sets

When the girls were small, I went on the look out for a Nativity set that they could touch and play with.  Princess Girly Girl would gather all her Little people and they would hang out on the table with set.  This year I was saddened to realize the Nativity set was all by itself.  But there were many times I would find her playing away and I was so glad I had this set.

Then we went looking for a grown up set and I love the Willow Tree collection so for the past few years we added to this collection.

This year, Dh found a new set.  Again by Willow Tree and I am so excited to have it!  I look forward to adding more pieces in the years to come.  I love that he loves these as much as I do and I love that I now have two, so when it is time one set can go to each girl.  

I do think Princess Girly Girl will inherit the Little People one, there is no question about that one.  

Remembering the real reason for this season that we have is so important.  Remembering to service those that need to be loved.  To be giving as He was giving.  To take time to remember all that the Savior has done for us.  

So in the rush of life, don't forget what is really important.

All over the place and catching up

We were all over the place this week it seemed.

Monday, I went to work. Fun eh? Yeah I bet you missed me. But can I say that Monday was full of surprises as some old friends found me and we chatted the week away. It has been a blast reconnecting. I also tortured the children with the Christmas music only in my car. I have an awesome sound system in there. It rained an I froze. Yeah all you people that live in snow and are used to freezing in the winter stop laughing. It was really cold, so there.

Tuesday, it was a rough day. I was emotional. I kept Donnann and her family in my prayers all day and just was in that spot that I was pensive. I also worked in my new craft room and tried to get it to a spot that I could think in there. I got Christmas cards done and addressed. I also edited a few more pictures. I have lots of pictures to catch up on.

Wednesday, it was the Christmas breakfast at work. Secret Santa exchange and sing a-long. That part was really fun. Who would have known? Later that night Katherine and I headed to LeAnn's and visited for a bit then we snuck out and headed to Starbucks. Have you had a Salted Signature Hot Chocolate? If the answer is no YOU HAVE to try one. It sounds strange but the salt makes is so yummy.

Thursday, that was the BIG day. We woke up to snow. We rarely get snow and because of stuff going on outside I could not get pictures of it in our yard but I did take a drive and took pictures of the foothills. We also woke up to the SWAT team at a neighbors. I have no idea what that was about but it was a bit freaky.


The family was going to see WICKED. I have wanted to see that for about a year. I was so excited! I think I was the most exctied then everyone. New Christmas outfits for the girls. Dinner out and then WICKED. We topped it off with a Tommy's burger. LOL It was wonderful!!!!
Friday was recovery day since we were out so late. We did head down to Amber's to hang out. Can I just say how cute her kids are?

So that is the week in review...

Oh wait, the craft room, there is a light at the end of the tunnel, I can almost think in there now.

A couple of more pictures :)

I call this one, the one that got away... But I love the "bloopers"



Aren't they just adorable?

I might make this one look more vintage looking...



Now here is a Dad and his boy...

Still in the craft room

Yeah, I am working today but I am spending all extra time in the stupid craft room. I have a heater and am cranking in there but dang I have a lot of stuff.

I should resurface this weekend.

Today

My heart hurts. Extra prayers for an extra special friend and her dear family.

It has been two months.

Catching up on the weekend

Let me see, it seems like it was a productive weekend.

First off, I am having a blast on facebook, finding or people are finding me from High School and college. It is all good times.

Friday, I did the photoshoot for Sherry's family. That was a blast. Four kids, one fiesty toddler and everyone else is adorable. You saw the sneak peek and I have most but have not had a chance to put more of them up yet. That really was a fun photoshoot. I edited more of their pictures over the weekend.

Saturday, I checked into to work for a bit. Then headed home to start setting up the craft room room. It is looking really good but you have no idea how much stuff you have until take it all out and put it all away. But the good thing, is that I decided to put together some blog giveaways, look for those after I finishing putting together the craft room. I will say one thing, I need a heater to work in there at night. Brrrr.

It is freezing. I think the heater went into overdrive this weekend. I know it is way colder in other parts but dang we are cold after staying warm all summer and fall. I talked to my friend Donnann this morning and she was like it is 0 degrees, stop whining. LOL Ok!

Sunday, Church and we finally decorated for Christmas. Woo Hoo. Poor Princess Girly Girl was wondering when that was going to happen. I have pictures but am not near them right the moment.

This week will be fun, I have another photoshoot to do and I am excited. We are off to see Wicked and I am REALLY excited to see that. Oh and that craft room, I need to finish that.

Sneak Peek

This is all for tonight, enjoy...

Going on a Photo Shoot

I have the cutest family that I am doing a shoot for today! I am really excited! So look for sneak peeks over the weekend.

But in the meantime, here is another one of Princess Girly Girl to hold you over.

So I am running late this year

Usually after thanksgiving dinner we get the Christmas Tree out and start decorating. But Thanksgiving did not go as planned and then the next weekend was Christmas Party central. So we are running a bit late on getting it up and going. Tonight we dragged it out. Tomorrow we will finish and make it nice.

There is one ornament that I will be adding this year. I am going to go find a Lightening McQueen ornament. That will hang on our tree in honor of Danny. My wish is that my readers will also hang a Lightening McQueen on their tree in honor of Danny. I know this year is going to be rough for Donnann and her family but anything I can or you can do to let her know, we remember, we love and we honor him.

We are coming up on two months and I am sure that all the extra prayers, hugs and thoughts will be needed in the upcoming weeks.

A story to make you cry

Really take the time to click on the link. But have some tissue ready...

http://abcnews.go.com/video/playerIndex?id=6436994

Elfed!

Send your own ElfYourself eCards

Wordless Wednesday

A new favorite picture

Christmas Party Weekend

I just have a quick moment, but can I tell you Three Christmas parties in one weekend is a lot.

I have pictures. I even have more water polo pictures, I just need a moment to sit.

So I will just leave you hanging for now..

Life changes

Well things are changing and I am praying that it all works out. This could be really good, or really strange.

I will post more later about it but family is good, life is good and I am choosing joy over this. Just mutter a quick prayer for me please.

Sneak peek for Amber

I went out and took photos for Amber and her cute family again. Some of my personal favorites are the ones taken when they were off guard. Like this one, I told them to act like they like each other and they are laughing away.

So Amber here is a sneak peek, there are more to come...

More Water Polo Pictures

Before game tips and tricks...



I could not get in a better spot, I was ticked... Stupid hand rails.

Choose Joy

Sherry has issued another great challenge for the month of December....

So, if you are up for another challenge - here we go!
1. This will officially start on December 3rd and will end on December 31.
2. The challenge of this blog will be similar to our Gratitude Blog idea. Look for JOY each day and blog about it. It might be something as big as attending a wedding or as small as how cozy your slippers feel...it's up to you. CHOOSE to find joy.each.day.
3. There are a few extra challenges for this one too...don't worry - don't stress....have fun! Those that complete the journaling AND the photos will be able to be have their name in the drawing for the prize TWICE.
Each week, you must post at least 3 photos based on the themes I have chosen.
Week 1 (Dec. 1 - 6) - LOVE
Week 2 (Dec. 7 - 13) - RED
Week 3 (Dec. 14 - 20) -GLITTER/SHINE
Week 4 (Dec. 21 - 27) - FAMILY
Week 5 (Dec. 28 - 31) - PEACE

Wordless Wednesday

A couple of words! Game two was today, they won in overtime. WOO HOO! They are two for two! Here is a preview, there are more to come.

TODAY is the Fundraiser for Danny's Family

TRITTEN FAMILY FUNDRAISER

TIP NIGHT AT THE PIZZA RANCH
4797 Blue Stem Road
Roscoe, IL

WHEN: Wednesday, December 3rd, 2008

FROM: 5pm to 8pm

ALL TIPS WILL BE DONATED TO THE TRITTEN FAMILY, in addition, The Pizza Ranch will donate 10% of all sales during this time.
Danny Tritten went home to heaven on October 16, 2008. He touched the lives of so many people in his short 5 years on earth. Due to the nature of his illness he was able to donate his organs and tissues to the Gift of Hope and saved so many other childrens’ lives. His 9 year old sister Madison is a 3rd grader. His Mother, Donnann is very active in volunteering at the school and girl scouts and his father, Dan is a tender, supportive provider who is employed at Chrysler. We are trying to help ease the burden of mounting medical bills.

Now not all of us live in the area but many of us want to help. I am holding a paypal drive during the time of the fundraiser in their town. All the money sent to my account during December 3rd will be sent to Donnann's family. Not matter how small or big all of your support is appreciated.

Please email @ menjiness@gmail.com for paypal information.

Water Polo Begins

Today was Princess Seriously's first Varsity Water Polo game. It was a blast but cold. She is the only freshman on the varsity team and she has improved a ton since starting in the summer.

Go PS!!! I will post pictures tomorrow because I have about 300 of them to go through. :)

Fundraising update

As of today, even before the event, donations are coming in and I am amazed at the generosity of people. You all make my heart happy.

Thank you :)

Scrapbooking today.

Today I have some friend coming over to scrapbook! WOo HOO! I have a project I have been working on and need to complete. But I am excited that Sherry, Vivian and Shellie are headed over.

Today I am super grateful for Princess Seriously who helped me clean the kitchen up this morning after our Tamale fest. It was a wreck and she went to work and made me smile.

I will post more later but wanted to get this up:) Thanks Princess Seriously :)

Recovery

So I was a little down yesterday. One bad turkey in 16 years is not bad. The Turkey cooked and we have lots of leftovers for turkey sandwiches :)

Today, I had a photo-shoot with one of my favorite families. I will edit some of the cute pictures and post them tomorrow or Sunday. I love this family. They have the cutest kids. Plus one of their boys is one of the two boys in my life that hold my heart. They have 2 boys which are all cute but Tyler and I have a special bond! Put him and Aleksei together and I am set for life with boys. One of the best times I had was when I had both of them at the same time and it was comedy because neither one wanted to share. But thy soon made friends and it was all good. It would be fun to get them both together again.

Tonight we made TAMALES! Friends of ours joined us and we had fun laughing and making tamales. Then Princess Seriously headed out for the night with them. Their Princess and ours have a blast together.

So I am grateful for fun times, tamales and good friends :)

Thanksgiving

So it was not the best.

The turkey was raw, I sliced my hand open and we had cranky people at dinner. Humph.

But I am still grateful. I hope everyone day a good thanksgiving :)

Wordless Wednesday

Beyond grateful

I am so grateful for the Internet and the ability to get information out. Which also makes me grateful for the generosity for people. The Danny's Family fundraiser has already started :)

Thank you everyone :)

Small grateful that goes a long way

Tonight I am grateful for Breanna. She is one of the young women in our ward. She was bored and I was the person she texted. I adore her, she is sooo funny.

I am grateful for the time I spent in the Young Women's program.

Getting to know you Christmas Edition

Tis the Season to be NICE!

1. Wrapping paper or gift bags? both

2. Real tree or Artificial? Both. we have one of both. A huge fake tree and and small real one inthe from window.

3. When do you put up the tree? after Thanksgiving

4. When do you take the tree down? After Christmas Dinner

5. Do you like eggnog? No

6. Favorite Gift received as a child? My bike, I loved that bike.

7. Hardest person to buy for? DH, what do you get the person that has everything?

8. Easiest person to buy for? Princess Girly Girl

9. Do you have a nativity scene? Yes, the Willow Tree one :)

10. Mail or email Christmas cards? Card, I try to do Handmade cards

11. Worst Christmas gift you ever received? Bras from my mother in front of my boyfriend who then became my DH

12. Favorite Christmas Movie? Miracle on 34th street

13. When do you start shopping for Christmas? The day after Christmas for the next year

14. Have you ever recycled a Christmas present? Yes

15. Favorite thing to eat at Christmas? MY MIL’s turkey

16. Lights on the tree? I love colored lights. Sadly my fake tree is white lights.

17. Favorite Christmas song? Anything by the Barlow GIrls

18. Travel at Christmas or stay home? Stay home

19. Can you name all of Santa's reindeer's? Yes

20. Angel on the tree top or a star? Star

21. Open the presents Christmas Eve or morning? Both, we do Christmans eve with DH and his fmaily and Christmas Morning at home :)

22. Most annoying thing about this time of the year? Rude people

23. Favorite ornament theme or color? Winnie the Pooh and Willow tree

24. Favorite for Christmas dinner? MIL’s Turkey

25. What do you want for Christmas this year? Scrapbooking stuff and to get more pictures developed.

26. Who is most likely to respond to this? Melanie, Sherry, Brynn

27. Who is least likely to respond to this? DH

Grateful

Tonight I am really grateful for my nice warm, soft bed. One of the best things we ever did was invest in the Temperpedic Mattress. I love it. Since now I am not feeling well and managed to make it to church for Princess Seriously's program, I was really grateful to come home. As soon as I got here, I put warm jammies on and climbed right into bed. Princess Girly Girl is felling better because she is now fighting with Princess Seriously. That is when you know. The day before she did not care who said what or why. So hopefully we are all on the mend.

But tonight I am grateful for my bed. Really grateful.

Grateful for Movies

We are surviving (well, I am not feeling so hot now) and PGG living off movies. Poor thing, you can only watch so much.

So I am grateful for movies, on TV, DVD and the DVR. I have a feeling we will be using them a lot in the coming week...

I also shopped. Turkey is in the house, no Amber not Albertsons...

Still Tired

Well I thought for sure that it would be an nice a chipper post but Princess Girly Girl is still not 100%. So I was dragging last night and went to bed at 8 pm. 8 pm people. That is really early. Well it is a good thing because PGG came to us at 1 am saying my throat really hurts. DH took pity on me and went downstairs with her. But I tossed and turned not really sleeping. I went downstairs after a bit and PGG was eating a popsicle and seeming better. Went I went down again they were both out on the couch. Then at some point DH was on the other couch. He said she was a couch hog. I tried to get them to come back upstairs but they were fine so they stayed down there. Poor thing.

This morning when I left they PGG was still on the couch asleep. I sure hope that she is feeling better today. Poor thing.

One other thing, please tell I am not the only person left that need to shop for Thanksgiving dinner. Please...

Tired but Grateful

I am grateful for the fun time Princess Seriously and I had last night, well early this morning. It was fun to get out and go do something fun and be a cool mom :)

Tired

I am tired. But the movie was GREAT!!!! Go, go see it!!!

Can't stand it

I am gonna be dead tired tomorrow.

We, PS and I, are headed out to the movies. MIDNIGHT showing of Twilight. It was the free download of Bella's lullaby that put me over the edge.

What a day...

Today was one of those days that you hit the ground running. Well it started yesterday afternoon and kept going.

I woke up to get Princess Seriously to seminary at 6:30 am. Came home got DH off and then started cleaning until it was time to get Princess Girly Girl off to school Came home and scrubbed some more. Had friends come by and help with Donnann's album and then headed to lunch. Had a nice birthday lunch for Sherry :) then came home cleaned up and headed out to get PGG from school. Went to urgent care. Turns out she has strep. Went to Sam's club with homework to finish. Got Princess Seriously from Water Polo, got dinner, went to Stamp Club (CTMH version) and then home. Went off to do Visiting Teaching (a Mormon thing) then to drop off my SLR to a girl in my ward to use for the rest of the school year. Then back to the pharmacy because DH has Strep Throat too. Do you think the chances of me being sick for Thanksgiving are high. I can not escape Thanksgiving without being sick. But let me tell you that know I know AS SOON as my throat hurts I am going to the doctor.

So I am a little tired.

But today, I am grateful for health insurance. It is nice to be able to go when we need to. There people that can not do that and it makes me sad.

Grateful Wednesday

Today, I am grateful for a nice warm sunny day. I love it when it is not too hot and just perfect. Then it get a little cold (stop laughing you people in cold places) at night and you need to snuggle in the blankets and next to DH.

I love those days!

Wordless Wednesday

Grateful

Whew! Today almost slipped by without me getting a chance to be grateful.

Today I am grateful for medicine. Princess Girls Girly was not feeling well and today I am grateful that I have medicine available to make her feel better.

It is no fun having a headache all day and with Motrin and a little TLC she is doing better! So that is what I am grateful for today.

Being there

There are times that I am sad that I am far away from some dear friends. But I am very grateful for the internet because it brings us close together. Right now I am having a hard time that I am far away from Donnann.

Sometimes the only thing I can do is just being there. Well right now it is only on the phone but I am there. Today she reached out. It was a hard day yesterday. A first major milestone and can I tell you that it just sucks. Life is not fair. Sometimes I just want to stomp and cry. Other times I want to hop on a plane. More often then not I just want to make it all better. I wish I could because it is just not fair. Sometimes I can do is just listen.

Her other dear friend Tracy and I are putting together an album for everyone that sent balloons up. I am amazed by the beautiful pages that people have sent in. The thought, the cards the things that people are willing to do. Her other friend that is close to her is putting together a fundraiser to help with the medical costs in their town. She sent me the flier today. I am so grateful to Jennifer and that she is there for Donnann.

For all of us that can not be there in person, I would like to come up with something, I am asked all the time by people what can I do? Well I think we can all do something during the same time as there fundraiser. I will post details about that when I get it all in order.

For today, I am grateful that I was able to be there when Donnann needed someone. I am grateful to the others that can be there for her.

Sunday Thoughts

In church today, do not fall off the chair, yes we made it to church. LOL it is November not October. October is just one of those months of too many family obligations, too many activities, too many things. So pick up your jaw and get back into it with me. LOL

So, there I am in church having some great talks and lessons and I turned back to the inside of the program and this little thought struck me.

Revelation 3:20
Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me.

Are we inviting Christ in on a daily basis? I know that in the rush of the daily things we need to do are we taking a moment to invite Christ into our thoughts, lives and homes? I know that I am guilty of not doing that. I tend to get caught up in the things of life. Not good. Because I know when I am unfocused, then my entire family to be unfocused. So yeah it take me 16 years of marriage and 14 years of parenthood to say that outloud. But it was like you know a 2x4 (since I like those) hit me.

So course I was cranky for the rest of the day, have no idea why really. But sitting down now I realize I let another chance to invite Christ in.

That is my goal for the week. Would you care to join me?

Also while I am thinking about it. I am grateful. I am grateful for my cute little family that drives me insane and gives me great joy. I do plan on blogging about them each in the coming week. I am sure it will be gushy and cutesy and all that.

One Month

Please join me in prayer today for Donnann and her family.

It has been one month.

So, what now?

I have such random thoughts going through my head, it is kinda strange when that happens. Why it is strange you ask? Well it drives Dh crazy because I can just spit out random things that just have to get out. They are not at the right time or place and at the strangest times. Seriously don't ask about the times.

Random thought number one: Fires, what the heck, it is NOVEMBER. October yes, I get October but NOVEMBER? Is this a joke?

Random thought number two: I need a design for my retreat t-shirt. Heck, I need a theme. I have been playing catch up this week with the retreat planning and I had a lot to do.

Random thought number three: I should be uploading pictures that I promised Sherry, but here I am typing away. What is up with that.

Random thought number four: Why do I have voice mail at home? I hardly ever check the messages. Oh wait don't tell Dh that he is ready to chuck to=he home phone number but I don't want him to.

Random thought number five: Why do bad things happen to good people? That one seems to always be on my mind these days. It is bothersome stuff.

Random though number six: Man, have I been feisty lately. I am being pushed to be more outspoken lately and that could get me in trouble.

Random thought number seven: What the heck is up with all the gray hair lately? Dang.

Random thought number eight: I have another blog post rolling around in my head about what I believe and I having a hard time putting it into words. What is up with that.

Well that should be it for now. Oh wait. (Are you on the edge of your seat?)

Today, I am grateful for firemen. Without them, we would have lost our home a couple of years ago. Without them fighting the fires in southern california right now even more homes would be lost then have been. I am grateful that they are brave and can do things I would never do. So I am grateful for the brave men and women that choose that line of work.

We are not alone

http://www.article6blog.com/

It is not all about the Mormons. Others stand beside us.

Also while we are on the subject, White powder sent to LDS temples. Lets really talk about No on H8 as "they" put it. Do you see us protesting? Do you see us sending white powder the their places of worship. I think not.

The Race

So part two of the Nascar race story.

We met up with our friends Melanie and Darren. Can I just say what a horrible photographer I am because I did not get ONE picture of me and Melanie or ONE picture of the 4 of us together. I failed there. But I did get this good picture of the boys...

It is blurry because we were trying to keep up with them. They are booking it to the gate.

Dh loves the goofy pictures I get of him at the races. Isn't this cute? OH wait here is the important info. This is a Rousch Truck. A big deal.


OH OH, we got to be close to the thing that they are all racing for. The Sprint Cup. It does not look like a cup to me. Does it to you?


We made our way to the seats and they were good seats. Our friends were a few sections over and they could see us but I could not see them. :( It was all good.

Now some action shots.





Both the boys. boys did well. It was a fun race. We had some great seats, some laughs and a few falls.

About the falls, DH spilled his very expensive lemonade on the seats in front of us and then used my extra shirt to clean it up. I was terrified of falling down all the stairs that we had to climb down. OH I made it down the stairs and fell in front of the bathroom. I am convinced that I hit a guy in the head with my water bottle but he and someone else stopped stopped to pick me up. That was really nice of them especially if I really did hit him.

While I am at it I am gong to throw my Grateful post in here. I am so grateful that Dh and I take the time to get away, to have fun without the kids and recharge. It is important to the both of us to get away as a family and as a couple and even as just us. Dh is awesome about me going off to retreats and such. We always have fun and I love that.

What do I believe?

I had breakfast that blended into the afternoon with a dear friend. Today she was asking lots of questions about my beliefs. It has been rolling around in my head and I think I just need to put it all down and out there. I am not outing my friend because I think she should be allowed to ask away with out anyone worrying about why are you asking. We are of different faiths and I love that we talk so much about so many different things.

So grab a cup of something cause this one is going to be long, although I do not think it is all going to fit in one post and it is going to take me several days to get all my thoughts out there...

Today the questions was asked (bear with me cause I am trying to remember the exact question) Do you believe that Jesus dying on the cross was enough? Do you need additional acts in order to go to Heaven. I don't think I gave a complete answer to her and couple that with kids running around and trying to have a conversation in the mall, it get a little crazy.

So after much thought, here is my answer.

I start with the 3rd Article of Faith of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.

We believe that through the Atonement of Christ, all mankind may be saved, by obedience to the laws and ordinances of the Gospel.

Oh then that leads to, well what does that mean?

4th Articles of Faith

We believe that the first principles and ordinances of the Gospel are; first, Faith in the Lord Jesus Christ; second, Repentance; third, Baptism by immersion for the redemption of sins; fourth, Laying on of hands for the gift of the Holy Ghost.

So there are the first principles. Ok, so what does that mean to me? Well, I was 8 years old when I was baptized, my parents were converts to the church. So I only had about a year before it was time for me to be baptized. I can not really remember their baptisms hum, I wonder why? But I remember mine. I do really believe in being old enough to know what you are choosing, being 8 works for me. I remember that I was not feeling well. I was sick and had a cold. The day arrived and I was excited and worried about throwing up in the water. Ok 8 year olds think about those things. I also remember that my hair was so long that I was worried I was going to be wet and cold forever. Do I remember who spoke and what they said, no. But I remember the FEELING without a doubt that what I was doing was the right thing. Coming out of that water, I was sure, I was never more sure about anything more in my life. Since that time there have only been a handful of times that I have been that sure. I knew marrying DH was the right thing. Giving birth to both my girls was another time I felt right. Going to the temple to take out my endowment and then being sealed as a family, to my DH and girls was another time. They never felt so right, so I am doing the right thing, RIGHT NOW.

I believe in Jesus Christ with all my might, mind and strength. HE is the reason I make many of the choices that I do. Sometimes I make better choices then other times. But I have FELT Him. I have no shadow of a doubt. It was HIM.

I believe in Repentance. I would be up a creek without it. I am human, I make mistakes. We all make mistakes. I can repent and be made whole again and go on from there. I am so grateful for this.

I believe in Baptism by immersion for the remission of OUR sins. Those are my sins. Once I was baptized, I felt so clean. I knew in my 8 year old heart that I was pure.

I believe in the Laying on of hands for the gift of the Holy Ghost. I would be lost without the Holy Ghost. The important thing is that I need to be able to listen, listen to that still small voice. Because I am not going to be hit over the head with it. (I know I do like my 2x4's) But the whispering, you need to be willing to listen and then act upon it.

That is what I believe, that is my Faith. There is a lot more, but that is what is rolling around in my head right now. I say these thing in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.

Testimony - Grateful

I am grateful for my testimony. I am grateful that I have a voice and can stand for what I believe in.

Weekend goofiness

So this past weekend Dh and I headed out to the Phoenix Nascar race. We started the adventure by running late. Go figure. I think we ran late all weekend.

We were almost there when I spot a HUGE full tire track in the middle of the freeway. With cars on both sides of me there was nothing I could but run it over. It was awful. Right after that, the truck started making a HORRIBLE noise. We pulled over into a gas station and could not figure out what it was. We limped to the hotel and called our dear friends that were meeting is there. Melanie and Darren came right over. But first thing first we were all hungry. Little did Melanie know that she was going to get a bath. The waited hit a drink menu which hit her water cup and poured all over her and her dinner. AUGH. After that we headed back and Darren and the DH figured out what was going on with the truck. The tire tread hit the drive shaft and messed up the brackets that hold it in place. They expertly moved them around and the horrible noise was gone. So we will need to get some brackets replaced but overall all is well.

We woke up late on Saturday and ruched out to have breakfast with my dad. I did not even take a moment to stop and take a picture :( That is so unlike me. Then we ruched to meet Darren and Melanie cause the boys headed out to the race and we headed to HOBBY LOBBY. I think we spent 2 and a half hours in the store. That is a record for me.

We meet up with the boys again and headed to dinner. I had the best BBQ ever. it was delish. See DH is drunk on BBQ and we are being completely goofy.



So now Sunday was the big race day....

Music

Todays grateful entry is about music. I love music. I would probably die without it. It can affect my mood and change it. It can uplift and it can bring a person down. Over the last few years I have grown sensitive to words in songs. I tend to go toward more positive songs.

I grateful for music, all different kinds.

This would be longer but dang I am sooo tired....

Wordless Wednesday

Not even sure what to call this.

My mind is just full of things. Random things.

Death, it is getting to the point where I am a little scared to answer the phone, read the text messages and just find out someone is hurting. It feels like wonderful people are dying and that is just not fair. *Insert kid stomping*

Protesting, wow I can not believe everything that is going on. Sometimes I just speechless. Tell us not to hate but it seems there are a lot of people using hate to express their feelings. I do not think because the people of California have spoken and twice at that that it is ok to go after any group. This affects me because we have dear friends on BOTH sides. I hurt for them. But most of them know my feelings. I just am at the point of disbelief.

Freedom of speech, this is the thing that I am grateful for. Because although I might have my thoughts and feelings EVERYONE has a right to express how they feel. I am grateful that we are in a country that we CAN express our feelings.

Scrapbooking, I have been wanting to do more and I am excited that I signed up for a class to help with prompts, make a cute book and just get things done.

Weather, I wish the weather would pick a spot and stay there. It is reeking havoc on my sinuses.

More sadness

My dear friend Sherry has lost a dear friend to her. Can you all join me in praying for her and the Ramirez family. It seems there is so much sadness going on right now. See Sherry's blog in my side link, It's Just Me and My Coffee.

I am grateful that I have prayer to turn to when hard times arrive. I am not sure where I would be without it.

Home Safely

We arrived home safely and I am really grateful for the great weekend DH and I had. I love that we have so much fun together!!!

So today I am grateful for DH. I love him!!

Grateful and I mean it :)

There appears to be nothing major wrong with the truck and I am really grateful for that :) Whew!!!

I am also grateful for dear friends, fun dinners and a sweet DH :)

Grateful and need prayers.

We are on the road this weekend. We arrived but I ran over a truck tire tread on the way. Something is danged on the truck but not sure what.

Can you please help us pray that it is not something serious and that we will get home safe?

Thanks everyone. I am so grateful that we were almost here when it happened. I am also grateful that we have all of you!

Grateful today

Today is simple. I am spending the weekend with DH. :)

Prayers for Donnann and Family

Donnann sent this message today...

Hi everyone, My family could really use alot of prayers.
My DH fell while playing with DD the other day and has a broken rib. He was supposed to go back to work but he can't now. He is really having a rough time emotionally as well. He doesn't have a lot of friends and the people at his work are being jerks about the whole thing and he is feeling very unsupported.
DD broke down at school the other day and we had to go get her. She refuses to go to counseling and is scared to death to be alone-she won't even go to the bathroom without someone.
We had a very rough day on Sunday. There were memorial services for All Souls Day at the church and at the hospital. It was very hard to go back to the hospital.
I am taking one day at a time but I am having a lot of trouble sleeping and handling day to day tasks.
Please pray for us as we muddle through.

The Feet - Grateful Post

The baby feet for wordless wednesday are my newest nephew's feet. I think I have a thing for baby feet.

When Aleksei was just born, I managed to get a picture of his tiny feet. The littel band around is ankle is no bigger then a quarter. At another point I got a picture of his HUGE feet.

That is what I am grateful for today, Aleksei, his feet and wonderful parents who are dear friends of ours. I am grateful for modern medicine and all it can do.

When I get home I will include pictures!!

Wordless Wednesday

Gratefulness

First off, I am laughing at how many different ways I can incorporate the word grateful this month.

Second, I am so grateful for the chance to have watched history last night. The girls stayed up and watched the speeches. It was definitely a night to remember. History being part of history.

I am grateful that I was part of that. I am grateful that my girls get to see history and the change that is about to come.

Being Grateful - Election

I am really grateful that we live in a country where we can vote and have freedom to choose what we vote for. While that can cause some great discussions between friends and some disagreements it is still wonderful to me that we get to choose!

I am grateful everyday that I live in the United States and I am thankful for all of those that gave their time, life and service to this country for all of us.

Danny moments

Donnann's computer is in the shop. When we chatted today she told me this story about Trick or Treating.

Ginger posted a thread in the prayer board about the same time I was posting on my blog about keeping them in our prayers on Halloween. Well they were answered big time in a special way.

Uncle Dave (I really hope it was Dave) came down to spend the weekend with them. There was lots going on and he just felt he needed to be there. They went trick or treating at one of Donnann's friends work event and got home in time to go in the neighborhood. So Uncle Dave and Donnann took Madison out. Donnann said they kept going and going and Madison was having a blast. At point they noticed that there this BRIGHT star and then all of the sudden it was a BRIGHT SHOOTING STAR! Donnann said it felt like Danny was there with them trick or treating and being with them. She said ti was amazing. So very special!

Sunday was a bit harder as it was a mass at the church to honor all the people that has passed away in the year and it was the memorial at the hospital for the families of children that has passed away. They also went the the cemetery to just have a quiet moment with just her and Dan. Madison was home with Uncle Dave.

But they made it and it seems there were some Danny moments in the weekend.

Being Grateful

Today I am grateful for The Scriptures. Being able to read and follow God's words are a great comfort as times. I am just really grateful that I have them.

Be Grateful

Sherry, my dear friend, is always seeing the good things in life. Since it is the month of November she challenged a group of us the blog every day this month about something we are grateful for.

First, I am challenging my other friends (especially one named Melanie)to also take up this challenge. It does not need to be a long post, a short and simple one will do. Also include a picture if possible.

Okay, here is what I am grateful for today...



I am grateful for Sherry. In this last year we have become close dear friends. We have shared some wonderful moments, spiritual ones, giggling ones, soft hearted ones, tearful moments and I am so grateful that I have a dear friend close by. A friend that is willing to bear burden if needed. A friend that will allow me to bear her burdens.

I looks forward to more fun, laughs, tears and general goofiness.

While you are out Trick or Treating...

Just please take a moment...

to enjoy your kids.
to be a kid yourself.
to think of Donnann, Dan and Madison while they miss Danny tonight.

Enjoy what you have and take lots of pictures.

Friday Fill Ins

1. My favorite food seasoning is Fresh ground pepper.
2. Laughter is music to my ears.
3. Lucky is being in the right place at the right time. But we are know that is not luck ;).
4. Love is something I take very seriously.
5. Many people give up before they get to the end of the trial.
6. Red Velvet cake was the last thing I bought at the store.
7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to going to a halloween party. Tomorrow my plans include getting an extra hour of sleep and Sunday, I want to go to church and have a nice meal!