Rambling Rachy

Look what I got to bring home.

2011-09-26T17:06:00.002-06:00

Currently feeling. . .

2011-07-29T14:31:00.004-06:00

Good. Tired. Calm. Nervous. Excited. Stiff, because I can't move as well with this growing creature in my body. I love feeling him move around, and seeing my stomach change shape as he changes position. He was head down last week at my appointment. I feel sore in random places at times- currently my tailbone. I wake up more frequently during the night, but last night it was a cat fight and 8,000 dogs barking that helped rouse me after 3am. I am slightly anemic this time around. I have been taking supplements and cooking in my cast iron skillet to help with that. Also, my heart has been having issues- palpitations and accelerated beating. The doctor had a name for it, but I didn't write it down and can't remember it. I have to do things like keep stress low, drink Gatorade to help keep my electrolyte levels up, etc. The heart acts up when I am resting. It is so annoying. But, I feel well overall, and have been able to do so much this pregnancy, like go to a few days of Girls Camp, attend Youth Conference (camping), a family trip to Moab (off-roading), watching kids, mowing the lawn, etc. I am so blessed/lucky. I have a loyal and hard-working husband who makes it possible for me to be home with our kids.

Just over 7 weeks remain until #3's due date, which means this little surprise could be here in as few as 5 weeks or as many as 9 weeks. (Isn't there a few weeks on either side of the due date that the baby could arrive?) I am excited to meet my little boy, but nervous to transition to 3 children. I watch a friend's son 4 days a week so I am used to 3 kids. He goes on errands with us, and we are just used to having him around for the last year. Only, I get to give him back and I don't have to wake up every few hours at night to feed him. So I think I am only partially understanding how much work it is going to be. I am afraid I will have forgotten everything about having a tiny baby. I don't want to be a lazy mom. I am excited for the new adventure. I am hopeful for my plans of a drug-free labor and delivery, but I have decided that is is not a big deal and I am not a failure if I choose to use the drugs after all. I have a pretty good plan and well, we will see. I will do my best and that is enough.

I put the crib together yesterday... which makes all of this more real for some reason. I've cleaned the car seat. I have clothes pulled from storage and ready to wash. My list of needed items is reasonable. . . but somethings may have to wait. You really don't need a ton of stuff for a new baby. I do wish I would have stockpiled diapers and wipes or bought cloth diapers. I wish he was here already, and yet I don't feel ready for him to come. Does this make any sense? I am excited for new adventures, and hope I can handle it as well as I imagine I can handle it.

I can handle anything, because I am deciding that I can handle anything. Attitude is everything, right?

My oldest son starts 1st grade in a few weeks. That is crazy. I keep trying to mentally prepare him to listen to his teacher, pay attention, and eat all of his lunch without me there to nag him. Daughter will be going to preschool. At least I will have a few hours a day on my own... maybe. We shall see. Dave won't be able to take time off when we have "John the Baptist" so I am praying that I go into labor while he is at work before one of his "short" weeks or 3 day weekends. These are some my random thoughts and feelings. I was definitely rambling.

Did you ever feel any of these ways? What prepared you most for an additional child? Was the transition to first grade (full day at school) easy for you/your child? Any other suggestions?

Women's Conference

2011-05-22T22:30:00.000-06:00

I have never been to Women's Conference at BYU, but I am grateful to have found that you can watch it online. If you have an hour (maybe while folding laundry or something) you should really watch Julie B. Beck's address. It is wonderful.

Want to know the gender of my unborn child?

2011-04-28T12:27:00.002-06:00

Click here.

My kids can't get enough of these. . .

2011-03-09T22:10:00.000-07:00

A friend of mine posted this on Facebook. The kids enjoyed this one so much we then watched them all. They were giggling and requesting repeat viewings. It was wonderful all around. Plus, I remember laughing at real cats with tape on their paws. . . does that make me a terrible person?

A new love

2011-03-06T21:32:00.001-07:00

Lark Rise to Candleford

If you've known me even for a little while you probably know of my appreciation (some might call it an obsession) with BBC Drama. While I would never (ever) want to live during the time periods of the past I love to hear the stories. I like modern stories too, but there is something about the manners and restraint of the characters in these shows that I am just drawn to. And there aren't many things on T.V. that you can watch with with your family and not be worried about violence, language, and sex.

My sister, Lindsay suggested this series to me. I am really enjoying it. I had to wait a few weeks before my turn came up at the library. I am now watching season 2 and will be waiting 20 more people for season 3. At least my library has a waiting list I can add my name to. I am still waiting on the book .

So, if you enjoy a good BBC drama once in a while you may want to check it out.

"But don't take my word for it.... ba dum bum."

And if you like this than you may want to take a gander at this.

What are your favorites?

I'm Pregnant!

2011-03-03T00:26:00.000-07:00

Want to find out more? Click here.

"A Christmas Carol in Prose, Being a Ghost Story of Christmas."

2010-12-06T22:22:00.000-07:00

I am very much enjoying the book A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens. If you have never read it you should. It is very short and only takes a few hours to get through. Very enjoyable. I am not sure why I never read it sooner.

A few of my favorite lines from the book:

"It is good to be children sometimes, and never better than at Christmas, when its mighty founder was a child Himself."

"External heat and cold had little influence on Scrooge. No warmth could warm, no wintry weather chill him. No wind that blew was bitterer than he, no falling snow was more intent upon its purpose, no pelting rain less open to entreaty."

"It is a fair, even-handed, noble adjustment of things, that, while there is infection in disease and sorrow, there is nothing in the world so irresistibly contagious as laughter and good humor."

"There might have been twenty people there, young and old, but they all played, and so did Scrooge; for, wholly forgetting in the interest he had in what was going on, that his voice made no sound in their ears, he sometimes came out with his guess quite loud, and very often guessed quite right, too; for the sharpest needle, best Whitechapel, warranted not to cut in the eye, was not sharper than Scrooge; blunt as he took it in his head to be."

"Men's courses will foreshadow certain ends, to which, if persevered in, they must lead," said Scrooge. "But if the courses be departed from, the ends will change. Say it is thus with what you show me!"

And of course:
"I will honour Christmas in my heart, and try to keep it all the year. I will live in the Past, the Present, and the Future. The Spirits of all Three shall strive within me. I will not shut out the lessons that they teach. Oh, tell me I may sponge away the writing on this stone!"

Elevator Psychology

2010-12-06T22:03:00.002-07:00

I saw this at a YW training and had to share. I hope you watch it and enjoy it as much as I do.

Trials

2010-11-21T19:41:00.000-07:00

"Each of us will face trials and tests, and . . . it is how we react to those difficulties that will determine our success and happiness. Each of us will face adversity no matter where we are. We are taught in the scriptures that there 'must needs be . . . an opposition in all things' (2 Nephi 2:11). We will each face times of difficulty, and the question is not when we will face them but how we face them."
James B. Martino, "All Things Work Together for Good," Ensign, May 2010, 101

I have been thinking much on the topic of trials and how we face them. I have friends and family who have been handed some very difficult cards. Things that infuse heartache into the deepest part of them. Some of them react with negativity, self-pity, or freeze up completely, unable to function. Now I am not saying that these methods are bad or wrong, sometimes that initial reaction is necessary. Sometimes that initial reaction will start us on a path for positive change. I think, like the above quote states that how we face these potholes in our lives will determine who we will become. Sometimes it is more than a pothole. Sometimes the road we are following just ends and we are forced to reevaluate everything in search of another path. Life is filled with moments that can injure and maim. I guess the trick is taking that initial reaction and evaluating or strategizing before we strike out on our path only to find that we have made things harder on ourselves that it really needed to be.

I don't even know if I am making any sense, but I have been thinking so much about how many people jump willing into traps that are clearly visible when looked at from the right perspective. We play the victim at times. For me, I have had to acknowledge that most of the troubles I have had (especially as a teen) were self-inflicted. I took the molehills and turned them into mountains. It's sad really. But I do not admit this for sympathy or pity of any kind. I admit my follies in hopes that someone out there can learn from my admission. Maybe someone will evaluate their life and see that they are making themselves a victim when they could be empowered with courage and faith. It may start a thought process for someone that will lead to a better choice, a happier life. I am glad that after all these years I am finally beginning to understand myself, make better choices, and I actually like who I am becoming.

Life can be happy. It is our decision. It is our decision to put on a smile, keep moving forward, or leap in faith.

Today I vow to choose to be happier. I will stop turning molehills into mountains. I will try my best to change my perspective when it needs changing. Listen to others who are trying to help me and pray for the Holy Ghost to guide me.

I have a confession.

2010-11-16T10:37:00.000-07:00

I didn't know it. I was in denial about it, until I realized many of the books I wanted to suggest to people involved magic.

I admit it. I like fantasy books.
Not all out fantasy, but enough that I it surprises me. I like urban fantasy or a little dystopian science-fiction.

It must have started with Harry Potter, but that one is easy to admit to liking since it is widely known and liked.

One of my most recent favorites is The Magicians and Mrs Quent.

"This book reads like an Austen or Bronte novel with a little bit of a Dickens feel. There were many things I really liked about it. The main character, Ivy is a strong female. The first third was like reading a version of Pride and Prejudice and second third almost felt like a strange version of Jane Eyre and then book came back together and went on it's own journey in the third part."

(Adapted from my goodreads review.)

Some of my all time favorite books:
Anything by Jane Austen (Especially P&P and Mansfield)
To Kill a Mocking Bird
North and South (Elizabeth Gaskell)
The Princess Bride
Daughter of the Forest (Marillier)
The Harry Potter books

I enjoy historical fiction.
I also like to read modern tellings of classic stories.
I also The Book of Mormon should be mentioned even though it is a religious book, because it is such a huge influence in my life.

I like to read the classics, but often I find myself reading modern fiction, especially YA (because it is usually clean). I wish I had a stronger desire to read "smart" books, but usually my brain wants a break from thinking.

This leaves me with three questions:
What have you been reading?
Do my book choices make me even more quirky?
And do I really look like Boo from Monsters INC? (My Young Women keep saying so.)

Happy Holidays the Shutterfly way.

2010-11-08T11:08:00.004-07:00

I have never been very good at sending our cards. Only in the last few years have I even bothered to attempt to send out any. The first year I didn't buy very many and had many people I mentally added to my list for the next year. Last year we send out our first "customized" Christmas Cards and for some reason it just was more fun. I was able to alter the card design how I wanted and add pictures. It was kind of fun. The shipping was fast and the product was good. This year I am going to use the same company. Shutterfly.

Shutterfly is a company I had never even heard of until last year. There are so many photo sites out there that many people just use what they know. I am glad I found out about Shutterfly. There are so many designs and styles to choose from. Here are just a few of their Christmas designs . . .

Whether you are looking for something simple and classic, or fun like including your family's Top Ten Moments (See picture above), or almost anything you can imagine. They have photo cards that are around $0.55 a piece and the price gets lower the more you order. They are definitely worth checking out. Plus, if you blog about their cards you can get 50 FREE Christmas Cards. What to find out how? Click here. How can you say no to 50 free cards?

Thanksgiving Cards - Christmas cards - Calendars - Birth Announcements
Thank You Cards

All Cards

Dreams

2010-11-08T10:33:00.000-07:00

Mom said I had Night Terrors as a child. As a kid and adult I have had terrible nightmares. I was afraid of the dark for-ev-er! I used to be afraid of a lot of things, but a few years back things changed. It was a combination of Dave and Dan hiding under the stairs or trying to scare me by talking about my long time "friend'- the attic man, and coming to the realization that they are just another trial. It makes me sound like one of those crazy mormons, but I was teaching a sunday school class about Job in the list of things about him it listed restless sleep and nightmares. When I realized that the nightmares were just another test I had to be strong and face they lost much of their power. I think my perception changed and since then, very few nightmares. Weird. I know.

Anyway...
A month ago I had the saddest dream. It was heartbreaking really. I went to pick up Izzy from somewhere, school maybe. I don't know. You know how dreams are weird things seem normal and little info is given or needed. Everything in the dream was shadowed and dark. Most of the kids were gone. Izzy was gone. No one that was around the building knew where to find her. The streets were dirty and filled with questionable figures. Izzy was gone. Someone stole my baby. I was anxious, upset, and crying. I was so worried that some nasty pervert man had taken her. Then I woke. I was so upset I couldn't move for a minute. It had all felt so real. I almost couldn't function I was so sad. I went in and kissed both of my beautiful sleeping kids. They were safe and it was just a dream.

I felt sad for a while, but was finally able to go back to sleep. That darkness lingered even when I woke in the morning until Izzy came in and she was playful and happy.

It reminds me of what Henry B Eyring said something like this at our Stake Conference- "Perception is more important than reality, because perception makes us do things when reality could be the opposite."

Christmas 2010

2010-11-01T19:12:00.000-06:00

Oh Holy Night Religious Christmas 5x7 folded card

Shop Shutterfly.com for elegant Christmas photo cards.

View the entire collection of cards.

I am so grateful that Jill posted about Shutterfly's Christmas Card promo. When I ordered our cards I saved a total of $104.50!
Thank you, Shutterfly.

Someone asked why I don't like Trunk-or-Treat.

2010-10-31T10:02:00.000-06:00

Why I do not prefer trunk-or-treat:
(Disclaimer: I am not trying to put down the trunk-or-treat lovers. This is just my opinion. To each his own, right?)

Maybe I am just "old school," but there is just something special about trick-or-treating. Kids get to go to houses of people they may never meet otherwise. They get to see the neighborhood buzzing with people. There is a general ...sense of "community" and friendship. I love the sounds of kids going from house to house.
The trunk-or-treats I've been to, where you walk from car to car and get candy and then go home, (at least that is my experience with them), were just a bit undewhelming. I hadn't heard of a trunk-or-treat indoors before. That would be ok, but I still prefer trick-or-treating in the traditional fashion.

My biggest issue with trunk-or-treating is how it can excludes others. If you go trunk-or-treating then you usually don't go trick-or-treating later. What about people not of your church's faith, people not currently practicing that religion, and those who are uncomfortable with church activities? Those people miss out on loads of costume clad children and interaction with the parents of said children. What if you didn't know about the trunk-or-treat and were sitting at home with a large bowl of candy, anticipating little cuties, and nary a knock on the door? I realize not everyone participates in trick-or-treating. Some people don't even like Halloween. I enjoy Halloween as a family holiday.

I see no problem with a church activity for Halloween, just have it the day before or early enough that you can go around the neighborhood after. In fact, I really enjoy Halloween church activities. They can be fun to play and dress up, and be with friends. How about a nice "soup n' scare" or the like. Everyone brings a dish. You can eat, interact, dress up, have games and activities for the kids (and/or adutls), and spend an enjoyable evening with friends indoors.

I also admit that trunk-or-treat would be a great activity for a ward (or church group) that may be spread out (like in another state or country). A ward where you have to drive over an hour to the church house or you live miles from your fellow ward members, etc. Does this make sense? But you could still do some put-luck activity with games and then trick-or-treat at home. Sorry this is such a novel. Really, I didn't mean to ramble on this long.:) I tend to do that.

So, I guess what my main point is, is that my ideal would be to have a fun night at the church, but trick-or-treat with your commuity.

Any thoughts?

I want this.

2010-10-25T18:23:00.001-06:00

I found out about this spray mop just after Dave bought me the Swiffer Wet Jet.

I was sad that I was going to have to buy cleaner refills and pads all the time.
I am a cheapskate and try to be good friends with nature, so I love that with the Reveal I could refill the cleaner with my own homemade concoction. I also love that I would be able to just wash the pads. I will be buying one of these little babies if I don't win it from Mommy is Green. I love giveaways, especially when I win.

I hope I win. Then I won't have to buy it.

See, I told you I was a cheapskate.

Avoiding Selfishness

2010-10-23T20:06:00.000-06:00

Read this. I loved this post.

Chronicles of a Babywise Mom: Avoiding Selfishness

Your testimony will never leave your children

2010-08-25T12:46:00.000-06:00

“If a child is not listening, don’t despair. Time and truth are on your side. At the right moment, your words will return as if from heaven itself. Your testimony will never leave your children. “As you reverently speak about the Savior—in the car, on the bus, at the dinner table, as you kneel in prayer, during scripture study, or in late-night conversations—the Spirit of the Lord will accompany your words.”
Neil L. Andersen

Thanks to Google Reader and LDS Daily Gems I read this quote today.
Sorry I haven't been around much lately. Summer has been busy.
Testing for Kindergarten is today.
School starts for Corban next Wednesday.
I am watching more kids every month. :)
Life is busy, but busy is good.
I always find time to read. It helps me keep my sanity. I used to hate reading.

Anyway, gotta run.

IF

2010-07-24T20:16:00.002-06:00

If you can keep your head when all about you
Are losing theirs and blaming it on you;
If you can trust yourself when all men doubt you,
But make allowance for their doubting too:
If you can wait and not be tired by waiting,
Or, being lied about, don't deal in lies,
Or being hated don't give way to hating,
And yet don't look too good, nor talk too wise;

If you can dream---and not make dreams your master;
If you can think---and not make thoughts your aim,
If you can meet with Triumph and Disaster
And treat those two impostors just the same:.
If you can bear to hear the truth you've spoken
Twisted by knaves to make a trap for fools,
Or watch the things you gave your life to, broken,
And stoop and build'em up with worn-out tools;

If you can make one heap of all your winnings
And risk it on one turn of pitch-and-toss,
And lose, and start again at your beginnings,
And never breathe a word about your loss:
If you can force your heart and nerve and sinew
To serve your turn long after they are gone,
And so hold on when there is nothing in you
Except the Will which says to them: "Hold on!"

If you can talk with crowds and keep your virtue,
Or walk with Kings---nor lose the common touch,
If neither foes nor loving friends can hurt you,
If all men count with you, but none too much:
If you can fill the unforgiving minute
With sixty seconds' worth of distance run,
Yours is the Earth and everything that's in it,
And---which is more---you'll be a Man, my son!

Rudyard Kipling

(This has been in my head all day. The first two lines especially, they just "pop" in there like the Stay Puffed Marshmallow Man (Can you name the movie?). I had to get it out. I think I post it at least once a year, but I just like it so much. Truth is always powerful. This poem is powerful.)

Blog on the back burner or This post is way to long and boring for you

2010-07-23T11:27:00.000-06:00

Yes, as much as I love to ramble on and on about myself and other glorious topics I just haven't had the time to update the blog regularly.

It's hard to believe that Pioneer Day is tomorrow, which means July is nearly over, which means there is only one month before Corban is back in school.

We had a great time with my family for a little reunion in Park City. July 4-7 my parents and sisters and our families were able to celebrate Independence Day, my dear ol' dad's birthday, and just have a great time letting the cousins play on the rocks. Yes, the kids just wanted to play on the decorative rocks outside the house we rented. I need to get some of those for my own house. It was a great week.

Girls' Camp with the Young Women and leaders was July 12-16. It was my first experience as a leader. I had a good time, and hope I did everything right. Now that I have been as a leader I can be better prepared for future camps and will hopefully be of more help.
I joked with some friends that because of camp that "oh, no. The secret is out! I am a big nerd."
But, at least now they know how quirky I can be. It's cool.

We have some fabulous girls and wonderful leaders. It was fun to see some of the shy girls find their voice. It was fun to get to know everyone and share experiences wacky (the Bishop and I had the same color nails after the girls painted our nails) and serious/spiritual with them. I loved it, and I can't wait to get to know the girls even more. I hope I am a positive influence on them. I know I get so much more out of this calling than I give to it. Callings are unfair in that way. As a teacher you learn so much. In preparation for things you gain knowledge and only really get to share a small portion of that. I am grateful for my callings past and present and I am grateful for the Gospel of Jesus Christ. I really am so spoiled.

Speaking of spoiled.... Since it is Pioneer weekend I can talk all about my way of keeping a grateful perspective on life, though I have shared this before. I have a tendency in my life to compare things to the mormon pioneers, the founding fathers, or people who lived during the 1800s in England (What can I say, I like Jane Austen and Elizabeth Gaskell). We have things so much better than they did. I am grateful I have a gas stove and oven, and I can cook immediately without have to stoke a fire all day long. Glad to have a fridge and freezer and canned food. Glad to have fresh fruits and veggies, alright I am more grateful for the fruits than the veggies, but I am trying. Happy I can go to Costco and buy my chicken breast the way nature intended.... in a bag in the freezer section. Glad I have a flush-able toilet and don't have to walk out back or heaven forbid use a chamber pot. I am happy I can turn a silver knob and out comes water at whatever temperature I desire for washing dishes or having a glorious bath or shower. No one has to cart a heavy bath tub up the stairs to my dressing chamber and then bring bucket after bucket of boiled water (boiled in that fire I am glad I don't have to care for) and then have to cart all the dirty water downstairs. Or worse back when you would get a bath ready and the whole family shared the water starting with Dad on down to the baby.... ever wonder about the expression don't throw the baby out with the bath water, a gross thing to share bath water... ew! I am so glad I get my own clean water. I am grateful I am educated (Not that I am the smartest person, but compared to some I am very fortunate.) I can read and write when there are so many people in developing countries or even here in America who can't. Grateful for technology: Cell phones, internet, computers, printers. Some people in this world are working all day everyday just just to get their next meal, they don't have time or money to work on education. Thank goodness for the library. (Orem's library is awesome.)
Anyway, I could go on and on and on about how great I have it. I am grateful for my pioneer ancestry. Thankful for those who had the tenacity and strength to persevere and the faithfulness to move forward. May I remember them and their sacrifice this weekend and may I move forward with my own faith and strength to become my best self and to help others.

You're the Shark and you know it!

2010-07-02T16:28:00.000-06:00

"I...Im only a dolphin ma'am."

I found this on the floor today. Corban had traced his plastic dolphin and tried to draw on some features. I love it. I instantly thought of the SNL skit from the late 70's or early 80's. Enjoy. The last part (1:09 to the end) is the best.

Land Shark | Movies & TV | SPIKE.com

Exciting.

2010-06-28T19:27:00.001-06:00

I like Harry Potter. Does that make me a dweeb? I am pretty sure I would be one without the addition of enjoying Young Adult fiction, so without further ado, here is the Deathly Hallows preview. (Insert annoying teenage squeal.)

SWAGGER WAGON

2010-06-22T22:59:00.000-06:00

Death of the washing machine

2010-06-15T23:14:00.000-06:00

You never realize how much you rely on something until it is broken, gone, or damaged beyond repair. Like when you cut your finger and it makes everything you normally do with your hand awkward.

The washer died over the weekend. Sad. Trying to wring the water out of jeans is nicht so gut.

Thankfully, Dave saved the day and today we picked up a new-to-us washer at the Appliance Exchange center. We even got a 2 year warranty just for giving them our broken one.

Having even just a few days without a washing machine made me think of how much I have. I know I am always aware of my pioneer (and not pioneer) ancestors shaking their fists at me for being picky or "spoiled" even when I think I have it bad. I am glad I have running water that is clean and drinkable... ooh, doesn't a huge glass of water sound delicious?.... I am glad I have a heater, a safe house, and a computer. I am glad I could have my babies in a hospital with an epidural.... not hanging on to tree branches for this lady. I am grateful for cell phones and my Volvo wagon. And so many other things.

Even the poorest people in America have it better than so many people in the world.

Speaking of America, I can't help myself, but I still cry when I hear "God Bless the USA" when they sing the part about "and I won't forget the men who died who gave that right to me."

Random. I know. Don't even ask me to sing it.

For girls eyes only....

2010-06-15T22:02:00.002-06:00

I mean it. Males, don't read it. I warned you. Some of you ladies might not like this either, but I just have to share this.....

I have wanted to tell more people about the Diva Cup for ages. For some of you a reusable menstrual cup sounds so gross. For others it is just the thing you have been looking for. I know my mom thinks it is weird. It is really not so bad. I have converted at least 5 of my friends and a few are undecided, but that is only because they haven't wanted to put up the money to buy one. I probably would convert more if I wasn't afraid of bring it up with every female I know (I guess I am telling quite a few with this post). I have had mine for at least a year and a half. I love it. I can't even remember how I came across them, but I am glad I did. It saves me so much money (I was able to get mine on sale for only $18), it is easy to use, and I get to be best friends with the environment (again). I still use other feminine products now and again, but it is more comfortable than tampons and less icky than pads. Think about it. What do you think?

Tell your friends.

The view from my roof.

2010-06-15T21:49:00.000-06:00

I am so lucky to live behind an orchard.

We were up on the roof so Dave could show me the swamp cooler so that I would be able to troubleshoot if anything went wrong during the day while he was working. I turn around and was struck by the view. I have never been up on the roof and we have lived her 4 1/2 years. It is great to have an orchard behind your back yard. Lucky us.

Personal Progress

2010-06-12T00:34:00.001-06:00

I am Mormon. I enjoy church. Not everyone does, but I do. Either way, it's ok. Not everyone needs to like church. Some go because they want to be obedient and they really struggle with certain views the church has, but, still, they attend. Others skip church all together. Some like to attend, even enjoy it. In each category there are many levels of "activity." Like in Mansfield Park when Fanny Price says, "there are as many forms of love as there are moments in time." (I love that book, that movie (1999 and 2007), and that quote.) So too, there are as many types of people as there are moments in time. We all progress at our own rates.

I love my calling with the Young Women (12-18 year old females) in my ward (our local congregation). There is a program for the girls called Personal Progress. It aims to help the girls, "stand as witnesses of God at all times and in all things, and in all places” (Mosiah 18:9). It really is a good program and I am enjoying my experience with it. As a "leader" I get to work on getting a medallion just like the girls do. I should mention that this is my second time through the program. I received my medallion for completing the program as a teenager and now I get to try out the new program with my YW. The point I like to emphasize is that each girl should make it a personal journey. Hence the name, "Personal Progress." She should not worry about how fast or slow she is compared to others. She should make goals for herself and at her own pace. Gain her own testimony of the truth of things. Accomplish things for herself. I love people. I have a tendency to "fall in love" with people easy. I want the best for people and hope that we can all help one another through life. That we can lift one another's burdens and befriend (and be friends with) others. One of my favorite quotes is by Spencer W Kimball. He said,

"God does notice us, and he watches over us. But it is usually through another person that he meets our needs. Therefore, it is vital that we serve each other. . . Unless the way we live draws us closer to our Heavenly Father and to our fellowmen, there will be an enormous emptiness in our lives."

What things help you to progress personally without worrying about how you compare with others?

I like her....

2010-06-10T14:44:00.000-06:00

Go check out this blog- She is open and great and funny and maybe a little crazy and love this post.

I found her because of Jill, my sis-in-law.

In Honor of My Anniversary....

2010-06-08T15:36:00.002-06:00

My favorite Shakepeare Sonnet.
SONNET 116

Let me not to the marriage of true minds

Admit impediments. Love is not love

Which alters when it alteration finds,

Or bends with the remover to remove:

O no! it is an ever-fixed mark

That looks on tempests and is never shaken;

It is the star to every wandering bark,

Whose worth's unknown, although his height be taken.

Love's not Time's fool, though rosy lips and cheeks

Within his bending sickle's compass come:

Love alters not with his brief hours and weeks,

But bears it out even to the edge of doom.

If this be error and upon me proved,

I never writ, nor no man ever loved.

William Shakespeare

(1564 - 1616)

If you want so fun entertainment check out Shakepeare Retold.

My favorite is The Taming of the Shrew. It just may be my favorite movie.... at least lately.
I didn't really care for Mid-summer night's dream or Macbeth. I only bought it for Macbeth.... Richard Armitage (Think BBC North and South). At least I wasn't disappointed in the rest.

Hello, my name is Rachael, and I am addicted to BBC period drama and the like.

Strawberry Jam

2010-06-04T11:37:00.000-06:00

My first attempt at canning jam. Winco had strawberries on sale again. $2.98 for 4lbs. I wasn't planning on making jam with them, but the idea just popped into my head this morning. I have only done freezer jam before, so hopefully this small batch works out ok. Half of the lids have already sealed, I love that popping sound. The sound of success.

7 years.

2010-06-02T14:06:00.028-06:00

I am married.

This is us now.... (and Jill.)

and this is us on our wedding day.

(Too bad I don't look like this anymore.)

My anniversary is on Monday. We celebrate 7 years on June 7th. It is our good luck year. (Alright so I made that up, but I can pretend all I want. I have a thing with numbers, for instance, I prefer odd numbers. I digress.)

My husband and I are very different. He has a beard, I don't. I am a prude, he isn't. He likes to ride, I like to hike. I like to eat an entire bag of chips within a couples days... ok sometimes in one sitting, he would never do that. Etcetera, etcetera, etcetera.

Marriage is different than I anticipated. It is hard sometimes/most of the time/always. We didn't start out like many other couples. Our "honeymoon period" was short lived. We started to get under each other's skin quicker than most. I turned into a backpack for a while. We've had sort of a rocky road, and I am not talking about ice cream (I wish). It has been probably the hardest thing to deal with a struggling marriage over the years, and....

I would not trade it for anything. I am so grateful for my husband, for my marriage.

Maybe it comes down to the whole, "opposition in all things" thing (2 Ne 2:11), I don't know. I just am glad that we have stuck through so many things. I love my husband. He makes me better, stronger. He drives me crazy, I drive him crazy, but in the end I know I have come through the trials a better woman. I have had to face things within my own character and learn and refine myself. Dave and I are both stubborn. Maybe that is what has kept us together over the years, neither of us wanting to fail. While part of that may be true, I know that I love him. Even when I'm mad at him, I love him. I know I have to give credit to following the Holy Ghost's promptings. During the most difficult times I wanted to leave, it would have been easier in some ways, harder in others, but it always came down to the fact that I knew in my heart that I was supposed to be with him.... "for better or worse."

I am so glad that my sweetheart fell in love with me despite my issues, despite my awkwardness (I'm so awkward!), despite my boy-crazy ways, despite the fact that I had braces (again) when we started dating.

Thanks, Dave, for everything.

I love you!

Happy Anniversary!

How about a few pictures to end this fantastic post...

(One of our engagement pictures. I'm so cool.)

On an outing to cut down Christmas trees.

(How many of you can get your man to dress up as Winnie the Pooh for Halloween?..... None? That's what I thought. This was early on in our dating.... you can see my gorgeous brace-face.)

We're so in love. We are on the left next to he-who-will-not-be-named.

I need to win this...

2010-05-21T16:39:00.000-06:00

We do not have a very good track record for cameras. I think we have had at least 3 that have been broken since we were married.

To find out more about it go to- http://www.trying2staycalm.com/2010/05/casio-s8-review-and-giveaway.html

Greatest Advice?

2010-04-23T11:08:00.001-06:00

My mom always has the best advice:
-It is ok to agree to disagree.
(i.e. going to bed mad is sometimes a good thing. Gives you a chance to calm down and think about it.)
-Kill them with Kindness.
-Never wear high heals on a soggy lawn.
(. . .just to name a few.)

I have a friend on FB who asked
what is the best advice anyone has given you?
What is your favorite advice about life? Love? etc.

For me, I think the whole "have an attitude of gratitude" plays a huge role in my life. I also regularly think of D&C 122- through trials, persecution, etc, "and above all, if the very jaws of hell shall gape open the mouth wide after thee.... these things will give thee experience and will be for thy good." I know that is extreme, but for me it helps me remember that regardless of what it is I can get through it and there is something I can learn from it. I am strong. You are strong. I've heard it said that God allows trials that are difficult but that ultimately we can overcome. I believe this. Yes, I kick and scream my way through some things in life, but I do try to remember what the point of all this is. You know? I am also a weirdo and am always saying things (in my head) like, "I bet my ancestors are calling me a whiney baby"- "They (the pioneers) are probably trying to smack me upside the head." I mean, I am lucky. I have a home, running water, toilets, washers of dishes and clothes, cell phones, email, can buy a bag of chicken breasts at Costco (I am picky when it comes to meat on the bone), etc. I might be low on funds, have high stress, or what-have-you, but in all reality I have it pretty good, most of us do, when you think about it. Even at our worst there are others who might have it worse. There is usually someone out there with a harder situation than your own. Can you even imagine being a pioneer and coming to the Salt Lake valley and seeing this...

(image by William Henry Jackson)

Then you hear, "This is the right place." I would have been thinking, "I am tired. Where is the hotel? This is it?"

Thinking back on history like this makes me grateful for those who were strong enough to trek and settle here. This is also where I remind myself to be grateful that didn't have to wake up this morning with my hair frozen to the ground (read the 8th paragraph down, "We started...").

So what are your great pieces of advice? What inspires you?

What you can do with an afternoon and the neighbors' old bricks...

2010-04-23T10:14:00.002-06:00

Not bad for a budget of $0. Now I just need to reseed around it.

The neighbors were getting rid of these bricks and I had a sizable bald spot near the garden. Now I can sit on a chair on my miniature patio while the kids play. Or they can sit and watch me weed after I banish them from the garden for not listening and walking on the plants.

(I know it is not squared off... there is a beam in the dirt there to mark where the garden is.... maybe when I finally get around to putting in railroad ties I can move it back.)

I love this

2010-04-08T08:41:00.000-06:00

"Fairy tales are more than true — not because they tell us dragons exist, but because they tell us dragons can be beaten." - G.K. Chesterton

(Thanks to Matt for tweeting this.)

To Coupon or Not To Coupon?

2010-04-06T12:25:00.000-06:00

I like good deals, coupons, and freebies.
I am not a coupon clipper. I print them sometimes, but I don't get the paper since they don't offer the deal I had a few years back (I only paid $16 for a YEAR of Sundays). I find that many offered coupons are items I don't normally buy, so it usually isn't something I really want/need. My MIL is amazing with coupons. If I did coupons like her it might be worth it to get the paper. It is nice that you can print so many coupons now-a-days.

For me I like a consistent low price and I stick with it, but keep an eye out for a good deal. I glance through the ads, mostly looking for pull-ups for cheap, produce deals, or a great sale on meats or poultry. I buy many of my staples at Costco: Milk, cheese, bread, meat. I shop my local stores for canned goods, etc. I love a good case lot sale. I subscribe to the diaper newsletters only for the coupons.

Here are a few of the sites I follow on google reader: Freebies4Mom and Hip2Save.
I would love to hear your tips, favorite websites, etc for how you get the most food for your dollar.

OK but I don't like it.

2010-04-06T12:11:00.000-06:00

For those of you who have already seen it, I apologize. Here are the pictures of my hair.

It was just a little trim. It used to be almost shoulder length.

Ch-ch-ch-ch-changes.

2010-03-31T14:40:00.000-06:00

I cut my hair. I think I even like it.

Who is ready for the Compliment Challenge?
I know there are a few interested. Cassie, I would love to get the sources of the other places you have heard of this. Fun.

All aboard!
Admission is free.

2010-03-26T19:24:00.002-06:00

Don't worry about the world coming to an end today. It is already tomorrow in Australia. ~Charles Schulz

Ready for a Challenge?

2010-03-26T10:57:00.089-06:00

Who doesn't like a compliment? When I was growing up my awesome mom would sometimes feign deafness to hear a compliment from me twice. "Mom, your hair is just lovely today." Her face would clear and she would simply respond, "What?" with just the right amount of mock innocence. She is wonderful and as I have heard on more than one occasion she has students tell her to "Stop being so positive"- She knows how to find the bright side of almost any situation. Now, not all of you were lucky enough to have a momma like mine, but cheer up, I am sure your mom was great too.

Here is my initial idea for the challenge: Once a week for a certain number of weeks I want us to share positive things about our bodies and personalities. The first few weeks will be about physical appearance. For example- "I am totally hot" or "I love my legs. Not because I have cute legs, but because they are strong and get me around to the places I need to go." or "I have nice eyes." The next batch of weeks would be about our inner self. For example- "I love that I am determined." or "I like that I love most people." The last weeks would be about looking for good in other people, appreciating a beautiful women instead of hating her, noticing the little things that others do for one another. For example- "I love seeing my neighbor with her kids because her example make me want to be a better parent." or "I saw someone go out of their way to help so-and-so do such-and-such". Maybe it would be easier to have a daily challenge that only lasts for a month.

I have a friend who stands in front of the mirror regularly and picks something she likes that may be underappreciated about her body. Mind you, she does this in the buff. A scary thought for me. Try it. I dare you. Instead of hiding from your body accept it, appreciate it. One of my goals this year is to be happy to be me. To be content with myself, comfy in my own skin.

Most people are beautiful and strong, but for many confidence is buried deep down where is is hard to reach. I think this "compliment challenge" will be hard, it will be personal, and maybe inspiring. There is a shortage of positive people. I want to read about women and men who love life, who find the positive things. I have often heard, "have an attitude of gratitude." I want to cultivate that within myself.

Time for me to ask for feedback. What do you think? What ideas do you have? Additions or subtractions? I want to get as many people participating as possible.

Who is in? Tell your friends.

What do you dream about?

2010-03-26T10:11:00.001-06:00

Lately, I find myself daydreaming about time away from the children.

I dream about have a few days all on my own, Dave can join me if he wants. Can you even imagine having 2 days without children? Here comes the sad part, I dream about this time alone because I imagine all the cleaning I would be able to accomplish. I imagine all the things I could get caught up.

Sad, but true. Who dreams about cleaning. Maybe it is just because I am more relaxed when the house is clean. Does this make me a grown up? When did/what made you realize you were a boring grown up?

Best friends with the environment.

2010-03-17T07:39:00.032-06:00

I am using my first bottle of this.

So far so good.

It is good for the earth.

It seems to wash the clothes well.

It smells nice (scented with essential oils).

The clothes are soft- one of the few ingredients is a softener.

On their website they sell the 210 oz for $20.50 but it is only $12.99 at costco!!!

1 bottle= 210 HE loads or 105 regular loads.

It is cheaper than regular Kirkland brand detergent.

Ingredients: 100% natural anionic coconut kernel oil-based surfactant, horsetail plant, lavender, coconut based fabric softener, essential oils of magnolias and lilies, purified water.

Holy Fetch

2010-03-16T15:34:00.000-06:00

This is a fun website. I found it because of Sue.

Giveaways and Freebies

2010-03-16T11:27:00.000-06:00

I want to win this and this, and I really, really, really want to win this.

Trying to Stay Calm is always giving away something.

I am not one who usually facebooks and blogs about giveaways, ok I do sometimes. Once in a while I just want to win something, so I figure, "what the heck"- and so well . . . I still won't win, but it is worth a shot. There are so many giveaways out there. I like to know I am going to get something for my efforts.... so one of my favorite websites about freebies is Freebies 4 Mom.

I don't always have or make time for blogging. I am not, what you would, call funny and I am sporadic in my blogging attempts. What I lack in motivation and talent for blogging my in-laws do not. My mom-in-law (she just posted about her 37th wedding anniversary!) and sisters-in-law (see how tricky I am? 2 links) give stuff away too, and when they don't have giveaways they are funny and informative.

I also enjoy The Sartorialist (thanks to Lindsay), because I am, obviously, so hip and fashion forward. The looks are sometimes ugly and entertaining, but I enjoy seeing the good ones. Do you watch Project Runway? I love that show.

What blogs do you really like? What goodness am I missing out on?

(Of course this is just the tip of the iceberg.... I have friends with great parenting sites, fun ideas, etc, but this is what my brain came up with on the spot. If I listed all the sites on my google reader we would be here all day and we don't want that, do we?)

You'll never guess.

2010-03-16T10:47:00.000-06:00

We love our easel and were taking turns drawing things and guessing.

Can you guess the content of these wonderful drawings by Izzy?

What is it? The other day Izzy's answer was always the same.

A cat.

So here you see two of her 5 cat pictures. My kids have all the talent.

Another reason I love vinegar.

2010-02-25T14:47:00.001-07:00

A month ago I ran out of Jet Dry and the dishes were starting to come out filmy... you know. I missed the shiny glasses and went online to see if I could find a coupon. Then it came to me, there must be a homemade/natural alternative. I googled it and found some great news; You can use Vinegar as a rinse agent in your dishwasher! So much cheaper!

I already use vinegar as a sort of all-purpose cleaner(windows, counters, walls, spots on the carpet, etc). In a spray bottle mix 1 part water, 1 part vinegar. You can use it in your steam cleaner and it is better on the carpet because it doesn't leave a film behind like many of the soaps. You can soak your shower head to remove build up. You can mix it with baking soda to clean or deodorize drains, get stains out of your carpet, and more. Plus, if you shop at Costco you get two gallon bottles for a little over $2. While you are there grab the $5.99 monster bag of Baking Soda. I use baking soda for laundry (booster and stain removal), drains, cleaning the shower, etc. Many recipes for natural cleaning involves one or both of these. Ammonia is another option for cleaning, but I don't buy it very often. I am a cheapskate, or maybe just trying to be frugal. Like the old saying goes,

"Use it up, wear it out, make it do, or do without."

There are so many ideas for less expensive and better for the environment cleaning supplies out there. You can make your own wood polish out of olive oil, lemon juice or vinegar and essential oils. My mom (in-law) even made her own laundry soap. I need to ask her how she is liking it. Anyone else have homemade/natural cleaners that they like?

My easiest trip to Costco . . . ever!

2010-02-10T20:59:00.000-07:00

I carried her in, transferred her to the cart. She NEVER stays asleep after a transfer, especially into something like a shopping cart. She slept sitting up the whole time. She woke up when I got to the car, fell back to sleep. When I got home I carried her to bed and she slept another half hour. Great afternoon!

navel gazing at its finest: $150 Valentines Day Giveaway (How's That For An Original Title? I'M A GENIUS!) to Dippidee, Wild Grape Bistro, & Sego Lily

2010-02-10T14:07:00.000-07:00

I love Sue. I have never met her in person, but I enjoy her blog. She is funny.

navel gazing at its finest: $150 Valentines Day Giveaway (How's That For An Original Title? I'M A GENIUS!) to Dippidee, Wild Grape Bistro, & Sego Lily

Trying to Stay Calm

2010-02-10T09:37:00.001-07:00

There are some chaotic times in life. I am trying to learn to be the calm in the storm for my family.... but then the kids do something and I turn into a dragon for a few minutes. After the crying and time out, I dry my cheeks and come out of my room to ask the kids why they cut off all their sister's hair, or put glue all over the carpet, or broke every egg in the carton and wiped it all over the kitchen floor. The self given time-out is much better behavoir for the dragon than in times past.

I find that usually I am the one who needs a few minutes to be sure I am calm and then I can address many situations logically and rationally and decide how much yelling or screaming needs to be done, which is usually none. Most of the time there is a quiet and peaceful way to work things out. Sometimes if I have gotten up upset, I stop myself, tell the kids I am sorry, and that we should say a prayer to help mommy calm down. Now that is super embarrassing to admit that I get short tempered with my kids, but it is the truth and I know I am not the only parent out there that gets angry too quick.

Parenting is harder than I ever imagined. I love it. I would never trade it for anything. Sometimes it makes me crazy. My main goal is to never let emotions explode. It is a learning experience with much trial and error, but I am making progress. Reading my scriptures and prayer seem to make the largest difference in my behavior. Also getting a break once in a while helps. This is a wonderful talk about motherhood. It is interesting how you can freak out over something then later wonder why you thought it was such a big deal. Baby steps, right? Sometimes I like to imagine there is someone in the other room, you are always a better parent when you are around other people. And think about how easy it is to change your voice when you are getting angry and then the phone rings and you answer the phone with a friendly hello..... Try to change attitude about the situation and you won't have to feel bad about your behavior.
My mom advises that when the kids are driving you crazy pretend they are someone else's, you will be nicer.

Our kids learn how to handle things in life by our example. Just something to think about.
What are the things that help you to be a better parent? What tactics do you use to keep your cool?

I am loving this blog. Tons of great ideas and info. Check it out.

Does this make me a mooch?

2010-02-08T12:30:00.000-07:00

I like free stuff.
Any good giveaways out there?

Misspelling

2010-02-08T12:27:00.001-07:00

A friend of a friend posted this link on facebook and I find it very useful and entertaining.
Please read it, then share with everyone you know.

Bye.

(http://theoatmeal.com/comics/misspelling)

You Need to Smile... Watch This.

2010-02-03T22:48:00.002-07:00

5 Second Rule?

2010-01-26T10:44:00.000-07:00

Saw this on The Coterie Blog. Funny. I like it.

January 11th? Really?

2010-01-11T00:47:00.000-07:00

Time must have tons of frequent flier miles, because lately it feels like all it does is fly.

I can hardly believe it's almost mid January. We had a great Christmas, a good New Year, and things look like they are just going to go well in the future. (Knock on wood.)

I was going to make a huge list of things I did/learned in 2009, like "Replaced my first light switch. (End of December... but that is still 2009. Thanks Marty.)" and "Lost 20 pounds." But my brain is tired and begs for sleep so I will keep this brief by only listing my "resolutions" for 2010.

-Lose another 20 lbs. Slow and steady wins the race....I have 11.5 months to do it.

-Organize my house better. This is on again off again for me. Sometimes things go great. I get a room cleaned out, organized, and fresh. I feel great. I start another room, then life takes over. Etc. I hope to clean out the whole house and repaint (interior and exterior) by 2011. The simplest fix I have come up with for this one is making a weekly “To Do” list of possible projects. My ideal outcome is to make my house organized enough so that if someone had to come in and take over they would be able to find things easy and not have to deal with chaos and mess. (My mom used to have us clean the house before vacations so if anything "happened" the RS wouldn't have to wade through a mess (something like that).... Smart woman. Maybe she was a Boy Scout. She was always prepared.)

-Find a way to earn income from home without too much disruption for my family. … meaning find a way to make income without feeling overwhelmed and crazy. There has to be a way.

- Attend the Temple as much as possible. Ideally I would go weekly, but I would be happy with monthly or even better twice monthly…. We shall see. This season in my life is preventing me from getting my way as much as I would like.

- Be myself. This is a biggie. I am a people pleaser. I am always trying to smooth any creases out of my relationships and the relationships of other people. This year I was to be COMPLETELY comfortable in my skin. I know I am on the right road. I am leaps and bounds ahead of what I used to be, but I have a long way to go. It’s ok to be me. People will still like me…. Maybe.

- Cut down on stress. Budget, organize, plan ahead as much as possible. Thus helping me be mentally prepared for things, but be ok when the course changes unexpectedly. This one will be a toughie.

Anyway, there is a peek into what is going on in my mind for future goals. I am headed to bed. Maybe I just don't have enough time for the blogging world. I am beat and stayed up for this silly post. My lesson in YW today was on spending leisure time wisely.... No time to go into it, but maybe it is time to say goodbye to a few things on the www. We shall see. :)

I like these...

2009-12-22T10:03:00.000-07:00

I love a good quote. (So after you read this add your favorites.... the more the better.) I love when quotes are thoughtful, poignant, or just simple truth. I was looking for a paticular quote, didn't find it, but found these from Charles Dickens. I love Charles Dickens. It is wonderful that a story he wrote in the 1840's (A Christmas Carol) is still being read and performed to this day. Some things are timeless.

“There are dark shadows on the earth, but its lights are stronger in the contrast.”

“A loving heart is the truest wisdom.”

“There is nothing so strong or safe in an emergency of life as the simple truth”

“It was the best of times, it was the worst of times, it was the age of wisdom, it was the age of foolishness . . . it was the spring of hope, it was the winter of despair . . . in short, the period was so far like the present period . . . .”

“The whole difference between construction and creation is exactly this: that a thing constructed can only be loved after it is constructed; but a thing created is loved before it exists.”

“Cheerfulness and contentment are great beautifiers, and are fatuous preservers of youthful looks”

“A day wasted on others is not wasted on one's self.”

“No one is useless in the world who lightens the burden of it for anyone else.”

“There are books of which the backs and covers are by far the best parts”

It is a fair, even-handed, noble adjustment of things, that while there is infection in disease and sorrow, there is nothing in the world so irresistibly contagious as laughter and good-humour."
- A Christmas Carol

I love Google Reader.

2009-12-12T17:12:00.000-07:00

Why have I taken so long to use it? It is wonderful. The only drawback is that it doesn't show me private blogs, but oh well. I love it.

Do y'all use it?

Can I add one more the the wishlist?

2009-12-03T16:37:00.000-07:00

When I first tried to answer the following, 1. What 5 items are on your holiday wish list this year?, I had a terrible time. Now the floodgates have opened, I keep thinking of things to add to the list...
Top of the list: An oven and stovetop that work. Our current range is a piece of work.... It works, sometimes....

It just gets old when it keeps shutting itself off when I am baking. I am grateful that I can still use the range. Since it is gas I can light it with a match when it won't fire up. Fun. (Really it's not so bad.)

What appliances do you struggle with?

I need this! You can enter too!

2009-12-02T11:49:00.005-07:00

I have wanted this bike from Madsen for EVER! With a little bit of luck I will win it! :) I wish, I wish....

(Instructions to enter)

Mama’s Holiday Wish List Meme

TodaysMama and Provo Craft are giving away a sleighful of gifts this holiday season and to enter I’m sharing this meme with you.

1. What 5 items are on your holiday wish list this year?
Besides a few unnamed miracles, I would like:
-A Laptop... with Windows 7, Office, and Antivirus... etc. (Someone be my secret Santa....)
-A massage (a real, gets-you-so-relaxed-that-you-can't-get-up-after massage).
-A great gift for my husband.
-Clothes. Someone could always turn me in- What Not To Wear is for people like me.
-A cargo bike from Madsen.... Or something new for the kitchen, like a new set of pots and pans.

2. What is your favorite handmade gift you have received?
Probably blankets for my kids.

3. What handmade gift have you always wanted to tackle?
-Scarf and hat combos for everyone.
-My husbands jean quilt I started last year. ...

4. What was the best Christmas gift you received as a child?
I remember getting a bike. Or the year I got rollerblades. :)

5. What items are on your kid’s wish list this year?
-Hungry Hungry Hippos.... (again... he has already broken 2 of them)
-A ballerina dress, a princess dress, barbies, tap shoes. (Izzy loves girly stuff!)
-A dog (and they can't have that unless it is a Fur Real Friend.)

6. What is your favorite holiday food?
Mashed Potatoes and Turkey

7. What will you be hand-crafting for the holidays?
Maybe some cookies... I am not as crafty as I would like to be.

8. What is your favorite holiday movie?
While You Were Sleeping or Elf

9. Favorite holiday song?
There are too many to pick one. I love the classics. Songs you can sing with your kids...

10. Favorite holiday pastime?
Decorating the tree with the kidlettes. Or sledding then having hot chocolate.
If there is enough snow the kids want to build a cave.

Struggles are good...

2009-12-01T15:46:00.001-07:00

We have had a roller-coaster of a year financially(not a nice/fun roller-coaster, something big and scary, that you never want to get on ever again), and I have been thinking about the struggles that come with that. I don't want to talk about all the negitive things, and I don't want to share our finances with anyone, but I just want to say that I really feel positive about the future.

In life, things will happen good or bad and we get to deal with them. It is part of being human. We have crazy days and grumpy days, happy days and not-so-happy ones, but overall I am hopeful that reguardless of our circumstances things will work out for our benefit. Now, maybe that benefit isn't until after we die(aka "not in this life"), but we will learn and progress. Everything is for our education, in preparation for the future. So, here is to a better year.
...And as they say in Meet the Robinsons, "Keep moving forward." (I love this show.)

New Calling

2009-12-01T15:36:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, a couple hours before church the phone rang. You know where this is headed, I was either about to be asked to say the prayer for Sacrament Meeting or be called to/released from a calling. A meeting was arranged and 20 minutes before church I had a new calling.

I will be extremely sad to see my Senior Primary go. I love the kids in our ward. The good news, I get to serve in Young Women! I have always wanted to serve there. Let's hope our Loan Mod goes through so I can actually stay in YW. :) I am really excited. I hope I don't come across as too strange. We shall see.

50 free 4x8 photo cards

2009-11-21T12:56:00.000-07:00

Offer ends Nov 30th.
Thank you so much Jill for bringing this to my attention.

"You can order 50 free 4x8 photo cards using the coupon code freebies4mom-1109 (type in that code) at SeeHere by Fujifilm." (Thank you Freebies 4 Mom)

thank⋅ful

2009-11-20T22:48:00.000-07:00

[thangk-fuhl]
–adjective feeling or expressing gratitude; appreciative.

I am grateful for so many things. I love my husband. I am so grateful for him, for my children. I am looking forward to Thanksgiving and seeing Rebecca and her family and finally meeting her little Preston. I am grateful for my parents and sisters.

I am grateful to have wonderful in-laws. Glad that I get along with them and enjoy spending time with them even if Dave isn't there. I am happy to be part of their family.

I am grateful for good friends. The kind you can go years without talking to and then you go to lunch and it's like you have never been apart. I am grateful for friends that love me no matter what.

I am grateful for repentance and the opportunity to make things right and become someone better, someone happier, and someone whole. I am grateful for the Gospel and the Temple. Thankful for the Atonement and for Jesus Christ.

I am grateful for good influences in my life. I am grateful for friends that ask earnest questions that lead us to places where we both learn from the answer. I am thankful for life. Even though I struggle, just like everyone else in the world, I know there is a purpose for all of it. I am grateful for the chance to be me. I am thankful to know that one day I will be completely comfortable in my own skin.

I am grateful for good food, movies, music, books, technology, etc.

I am thankful for my voice and the feelings I get when I sing.

What are you grateful for?

Check the Window?

2009-11-15T22:27:00.002-07:00

Today my sister and I were chatting and she was going on and on and on about what an amazing mother I am. Well, maybe you can forget the second and third "and on" but she did say I do "everything" for my kids. (She meant I do the best I can for them.) That made me think ... Yes, I do everything I can for them (with the help of dear ol' Dave, of course). I provide for their needs. Sometimes I provide the way for their needs to be met and they have to make the choice to get what they want (i.e. eat your casserole ...).

I was also thinking, I do everything for them alright.... I lose my patience which leads to yelling. I give them a good spank now and then. (Which does nothing anyway. Izzy is usually back out of bed in 10 seconds and giggling.) I let them admire my back while I sit at the computer for a "couple" more minutes. I am the greatest. I was even talking with a neighbor last week about raising my voice to the kids and then she mentioned checking to see if the window was open. I thought I was the only person in the world to do this. You yell, you feel bad, you check to see if the window was open (you know, to make sure the neighbors didn't hear). Have you done it? I was shocked to know she had done it before, because I thought I was the only mom mean enough to be yelling at my kids with the windows open or closed.

Yes, I am guilty of those things. Most moms are.

I am also happy to report I have had some great moments. The feel-good-because-you-are-being-a-good-mom moments. You know them. You are in the midst of your daughter showing you her Linda Blair impersonation, which turns out to be really good, and for some reason you just feel calm. Like nothing she could (and will) do could set you off. I love and need those moments. The moments when you react with more patience than you ever thought yourself capable of having. I love when you react just the right way and your child's crazy turns to quirky or silly. Sometimes they stay in spawn-of-satan mode, but many times they come around and everyone is better off because of it.

I will remember to live by my mom's advice about what to do when you are mad: You will be nicer to your kids if you pretend they are someone else's. And remember my own advice: Pretend there is always someone in the other room. I guess I just need to resolve to be better. Check myself before the window needs checking.

In regards to restraining the beast within (you know you have one and kids are great to bring it out), what tricks are up your sleeve?

Out of Print?

2009-11-09T22:09:00.000-07:00

I love this musical. I cannot count how many times I have watched it since childhood. My mom owns an old VHS copy. Sadly, this film is out of print. The funny thing is that I found it on Fancast. You can watch it online, but you can't get it on DVD? What is up with that? If you like musicals and you enjoy Kevin Kline you should click here and watch it.

You can also watch Charade, The Pit and the Pendulum, Heart and Souls, and more.

The Perfection Illusion.

2009-11-06T10:54:00.004-07:00

Do you often find yourself thinking you are "not good enough?" Honesly, this is something that frequents my thoughts. I am a comparer, one in recovery. My newest tactic: Compare old me to new me. Yesterday I read this post, and my friend shared many of my thoughts. I actually chatted with her in her driveway a few months back about the same thing.I have always seen here as one of the Perfects, and have had to learn that she struggles too. (Sorry, Jen, I am just being honest. You always seem so on top of everthing!) There are just so many people out there inflicting issues on themselves by inaccurately comparing something they are not good at with something the neighbor is great at. Why are we always comparing our worst to someone else’s best? All of us struggle.

Anya Bateman said, “Such feelings of inadequacy, discouragement, and even jealousy are unfortunately common to many of us when we compare ourselves to others. Yet it’s difficult not to compare—and too often as we do, we feel we are lacking. We respond with: “What’s wrong with me? Why can’t I be like that?” or “He has all the luck. It just isn’t fair.” We may even feel guilty that we aren’t doing more because some other person we know of seems to be doing so much. Sometimes we develop the “why try?” attitude: “I could never do as well, so why try?”

“It seems the adversary does his best work when he convinces people to concentrate on what they don’t do or don’t have, rather than on what they can do and do have. We each have special gifts and blessings. The trick is realizing what they are and acknowledging them.” Read the whole article here.

Perfection is an illusion (at least in this life) and if we actually had perfection there would be no reason to be here. Do you agree? Without trial there would be no reason to come to earth. Isn’t this life about trial and error? Would you want to limit your growth potential? Isn’t that essentially what we are doing when we compare ourselves to others, limited our potential. Giving up before we've earnestly tried.

If you are so focused on others will you look back with regret at lost opportunities?

One of my favorite quotes:
Hell is the knowledge of opportunity lost; the place where the man I am comes face to face with the man I might have been. - Anonymous

“Perhaps we all live under some misconceptions . . . It is natural to assume that everyone else has his life under control and doesn’t have to deal with dark little weaknesses and imperfections.

"There is a natural, probably a mortal, tendency to compare ourselves with others. Unfortunately, when we make these comparisons, we tend to compare our weakest attributes with someone else’s strongest. . . . comparisons are destructive and only reinforce the fear that somehow we don’t measure up and therefore we must not be as worthy as the next person.

"We need to come to terms with our desire to reach perfection and our frustration when our accomplishments or behaviors are less than perfect. I feel that one of the great myths we would do well to dispel is that we’ve come to earth to perfect ourselves, and nothing short of that will do. If I understand the teachings of the prophets of this dispensation correctly, we will not become perfect in this life, though we can make significant strides toward that goal.” (From Marvin J Ashton's Ensign Atricle)

I guess what this all boils down to what Jen said, "life doesn't have to be about looking perfect and having everything that you see others have to be successful. You can find happiness in your imperfections and weaknesses."

Gordon B Hinckley always said to do the very best we can. That is all we can do. Do your best. Try to be better than your former you! It's hard to stop wishing for the greener grass, the grass isn't alway greener on the other side. Maybe they appear to have everything in balance, but behind closed doors they unleash the beast we all try to keep sedated in public.

I think that is the the most important thing I learned in my yoga training. Yoga is about self-awareness. Not others-awareness. You can look to others for ideas, as a guide, but that is all. We all do things differently. You take time to breath, look inside, discover your strengths, aknowledge your weakness, and push forward to something better. A better you. You have to look inside and find the strength to continue through a difficult vinyasa, hold, or balancing pose. In yoga you have to be honest with yourself about your ability or you can hurt yourself. So it is with life. Find your strengths and build on them.

I think we are all similar in the fact that we all have hardships to deal with. Maybe if we think of that next time that judgemental voice pops in our head we will be less likely to harm ourselves or others. We need to help one another.

What has helped you stop playing in the comparing game?

My Favorites.

2009-11-04T16:49:00.004-07:00

(Author's note: This post started out as my favorite BBC Period dramas and then things just started branching out.... I tried to stop it before the dam broke. More and more movies came to mind, so here I have stopped. Hope you enjoy.)

I love Period Dramas. I enjoy many of them, and there are some that are exceptional and need to be shared with others.. I have been wanting to compile a list of favorites for a long time. I figure putting in on my blog would make it easily accessible. Most are BBC or Masterpiece Theater. Some are regular movies. There are so many this is just a start. I am always looking for more, so if you have one you love that is MIA please leave me the title. Also I would love to know your favorites. If you want any specific reviews just comment or email me. I am sure I have forgotten some and will make amendments as I think of them. There are just so many... check out this website. Their timeline is great to put everything in perspective as to when different shows would have taken place in history.

By the way, you can rent most of these from the Library.

Without any further ado . . .

The Best aka My Top 5

These are clearly my most favorites. Maybe in their own ways they are all #1. There are many versions of Jane Eyre and P&P but these are my favorites. Sorry Timothy Dalton, Toby Stephens made this Jane Eyre the best of the lot. Cranford is fabulous and Wives and Daughters is wonderful.

Almost The Best

These also belong close to the top.

Very Good

OK. Some of these are more modern, etc, but they are good. I guess from this point we leave the more common time period of Austen, Gaskell, Dickens, etc.

I love the Taming of the Shrew from Shakespeare Retold, and Much Ado About Nothing I can watch over and over.

Good

Alright, I can't get the pictures to align how I please. This will have to do.

If you liked many of the above, you might like some of these . . .

I so wanted to like both of the following, but they just didn't work for me. Lillies was so great, and then it just had too much "modern" stuff.

I love movies and this post got me thinking about just how many. I wish blogger had extra small images, then I could make one post about all my favorite "normal" movies.

Thirty days and nights of literary abandon!

2009-11-02T15:33:00.000-07:00

It starts out like free-association writing and turns into a novel . . . sort of.

50,000 words in 30 days.

November 1st- November 30th.

Have any of you ever tried this before? I did it in 2007, but didn't finish. Today is day 2. I have about a page and I am trying to decide if I will "go for it" or not. It is fun.

Book of Mormon

2009-11-01T11:43:00.001-07:00

A few weeks ago our Bishop offered a challenge to the Ward. Read the entire Book of Mormon by Christmas. When we started we needed to read 7 pages a day to finish on time. Now, we probably need to read 9 pages a day to catch up a bit. But really we have done ok. Somedays are better than others. I have loved this challenge, and it has been a bit of a challenge. It is also kind of fun to have many of my neighbors participating. It really is amazing how even though I have read the chapters before that there can be new ideas and understanding come to me. It might be hard to get back in the habit of reading together, but it has been a positive experience so far.

We are also studying the Book of Mormon in Institute this year. We have some wonderful teachers and I have learned so much. If you haven't seen the new manual you should check it out. I think it is well worth the $6 even if you are just using it for personal study or reference.

What are some books you like to use with your scripture study?

Busy like a bee.

2009-10-30T11:18:00.001-06:00

What a great experience I had this week. I was recorded, yes, me actually singing, in a studio. I sang The Very Thought of You. It was ok. There were things I would correct and such if I could, but overall I think positively on the experience. There is so much to learn and much progress I could make. There is always room for improvement, right? Anyway, thanks to my friend-since-3rd-grade Phillip for giving me the opportunity.

I have been interviewing for night jobs. Cross your fingers. I don't enjoy interviewing, but a girl does what she must. It won't be bad. If I am lucky I will make some new friends, do some work, and get a little money in the process. Too bad money doesn't grow on trees.

We had a fun halloween party at the church last night. For the past few years the Youth of the ward have hosted a Soup-n-Scare for the Primary kids. Everyone easts and then the kids rotate through a bunch of activities. The kids loved it. Today I'll go in and help with Corb's class, and then Trick-or-Treating on Saturday will be fun. Izzy has been practicing saying "Trick-or-Treat" for weeks now. I am not sure where she learned the phrase. She just says it randomly.

By the way, my costume is Cleopatra.

Trunk-or-Treat is lame?

2009-10-28T20:44:00.001-06:00

Am I the only person in the world that thinks Trunk-or-Treat is lame? Our ward (Thank Heaven!) does not have a Trunk-or-Treat activity. Does anyone else think that it excludes the rest of the community when you celebrate Halloween in a church parking lot instead of trekking to each home? If someone does not want to participate in regular Halloween, they can just do as others have done before: Turn off you lights, don't answer the door. Ta-Da. If you are worried for your kids safety (think razors in apples) then maybe you should be out there with them and have them skip the houses that irk you.

In my opinion I think that the whole Trunk-or-Treat thing has to go. Who started it in the first place? I know it is practiced by different religious groups. It "creates a safe family oriented environment" and all, but come on. How else can you reach out to your community than going door-to-door with a special message... "Give me some candy! or else. . . "

Discuss.

Don't Drink and Recline.

2009-10-22T15:42:00.001-06:00

Have you even thought of converting to mobile furniture? Check this out. Wow. People never cease to amaze me.

Slate's 2009 list of the most powerful octogenarians in America.

2009-10-22T15:35:00.000-06:00

President Monson was #1 on Slate's 80 over 80 list. That is neat.

Where The Wild Things Are= Not What I Expected

2009-10-20T22:08:00.001-06:00

Ok. This film was strange. The first thing I said after the film ended was, "Are you kidding? That’s it?" It just ended.... Not much explanation.

I do think the more I have time to think about the more I like it, but I was really disappointed at first. And it is still weird, so I don’t know if I would recommend it to people. Maybe as a Redbox rental. It was just … different and it made me feel anxious so many times. The opening scene made me crazy. Max is chasing the wrestling the dog while holding a fork. Max was in dangerous situations and it just made me nervous.

Maybe you will love it. I now know of a family that saw it and loved it. We didn’t enjoy it, because I wanted something more light and fun for the little ones. Corban was so excited to see it and now I don’t think he is going to for some time. It was thought provoking. I am still thinking about. Trying to make sense of it. It didn’t make sense. There was talking (and I was surprised the monsters talked) and times of silence. And sometimes I felt like some things needed explanation. It left me wanting more. It just ends. Poor Max was so neglected and lonely and sad. It was a bit heartbreaking.

I must admit, I did picture Corban as Max for some of the scenes. The way he is fearless and impulsive. The way he is with new friends. The way he can be shy. I think that is why I am beginning to make sense of the film, but I will not be purchasing this film.

I am glad I saw it for the “what if’ factor to be eliminated, but it was just not the fun family friendly movie I was hoping for. Too bad. Maybe you will love it. I didn’t. I wanted to, I really did.

Hi, Let's Celebrate Me!

2009-10-20T21:49:00.000-06:00

Everyone did so much this weekend for me. Thank you, thank you, thank you. I was able to see my side of the family on Saturday, and Dave's side on Sunday. Thank you everyone for so much. Dave took me to Tucanos for lunch, thanks to the free birthday meal....To join click here.

Then we went to the movie Where The Wild Things Are that night, thanks to Candice and Andy.

It was an eventful weekend. Thanks for the celebrating and the gifts.

What the devil am I doing awake?

2009-10-15T00:37:00.000-06:00

Perhaps I am having a bout of insomnia. I don't know. I cannot sleep. I will be hating life in the morning. If you are reading this, you are in luck. You get to read some random thoughts of mine. I am hoping the continuous sound of the keyboard strokes will lull me to sleep.

Today it rained like a maniac. It was beautiful. I was hoping to mow the lawn and do some weeding, but lucky for me the rain came down.

My sweet mom-in-law asked me what I want for a forthcoming birthday. I hate answering that question. It makes me think of Gina complaining about the same thing and saying.... "Hi, let's celebrate me!" I digress. So I told my mom-in-law I would try to think of some things. Do you enjoy spouting off a list of your wishes? Maybe I should be shouting from the hilltops, "Hi, let's celebrate me!," but it is a bit difficult for me.

Here is what I sent her: bike lock, hug, rolling pin, babysitter for a date, jewelry , deal on a large stockpot, cooking skills, relaxation, gift card..... I don’t know.

(How have I survived this long without a rolling pin… I often use a glass.)

(I don‘t have much jewelry and am looking to branch out…. I envy the trendy friends of mine that always look awesome. Too bad I can only wear the expensive earrings. Sensitive ears are a drag.)

I read the list and thought, "I must be able to think of some better/cooler items." Nope. It hasn't happened yet. I can think of all sorts of things I want for my kitchen. A good massage would be nice, but it is getting harder to relax, the older I get. I would also love a basket for my bike for the times I venture to the store and don’t have a back pack or spacious purse. What do I want for my birthday, folks? Help a girl out.

I have made it more than half way through General Conference. I downloaded the audio files and then put them on my ipod and have really enjoyed being able to really listen to the talks. There is so much wisdom in them. I am so happy I live in this time period. What would I do without technology?

I better climb in bed and hope someone left sleeping dust on my pillow.

Much to my dismay...

2009-10-14T14:20:00.005-06:00

I have been pondering the age old question: What should I be for All Hallows' Evening? So I hop on my trusty search engine and soon grow tired of all the scant costumes. I thought Medusa would be fun, or Snow white even, but many of the skirts were not to the fingertips when one holds one's arms down... Remember that rule from school or your parents. Some were, sadly, out of my price range. Anyway, I then tried to get away from my current search and google "Best women's costumes." and I found this gem....
(Click on the title to see the picture.)

The 220 Best Women's Halloween Costumes On Amazon And eBay

Aren't you glad you live in a day when nearly 50% of the most popular costumes are "Sexy Pirate" (24%) and "Sexy Cop" (20%), with "Sexy Nurse" (5%) coming in a close 3rd. Wow. I am at a loss.

I still need to figure out something amazing to imitate in dress for the holiday. Any ideas? And no I will not be considering anything with the word sexy in the title.
What are you going to pretend to be?

All done!

2009-10-14T09:40:00.002-06:00

14 quarts and 6 pints of pears for good ol' food storage. I ran out of quart jars and didn't want to run to the store mid-project. I thought 14 quart jars would be enough, but no, it obviously wasn't. It was fun to learn and hopefully I did them right.

Applesauce

2009-10-12T11:19:00.001-06:00

I was able to do 22 jars of applesauce in 4 hours! I am so proud of myself. Is it sometimes ok to brag?

[There should be a picture of all the apples here. I forgot to take one. So instead I will find some random internet image.]

I finally got around to cleaning off the outsides of the jars to put them in storage. Total jars= 32 and a little bit over (half a small jar). Isn't it funny that I spent the same amount of time both days(12-4. While Corban was at school-) and only did 10 jars the first day. I guess I had to get a system set up the first day and the next day I was more prepared, but wow.

[And here should be a picture of all the lovely finished jars. They are all stacked in boxes on the shelves.]

If all goes as planned, tomorrow I attempt pears.

Things to come.

2009-10-08T12:16:00.002-06:00

No I have not decided on a name. Picking names is something I struggle with, just think of my poor children that had to live nameless for a while in the hospital. At least I named them before taking them home, thus saving them from a life of knowing their original birth certificate saying "Baby Boy" or "Baby Girl" Langston. But, never fear, this blog will be named, I will choose. One day it will just come to me. I can feel it.

I had a great Institute class today and have a few things I want to share, but for now I need to hasten to the kitchen and get the applesauce going. There are few hours before Corban returns from school. 10 jars down... more to come.

Have a great day, wonderful you!

I'm drawing a blank

2009-10-03T17:29:00.000-06:00

I know I have, probably, the largest following that blogger has ever seen. Really, I know how to draw in the crowds, but what I can't do it come up with a one of a kind, awesome, and clever name for this blog. I have read tips about how to choose your name. Some suggestions: Stick to 3 word titles (not too long or short, easy to recall), no wacky spellings, demonstrate uniqueness, easy to remember, needs to be descriptive or convey an image.

Here I am racking my brain and I have nothing. Well, close to nothing. I have a few ideas I don't want to divulge, which means they must be too amazing to share or very lame. Most likely the latter. Any ideas? It might be funny to do "abby something" - inspired by Young Frankenstein, though few may even get that joke. Do I need to explain? I have an abnormal brain.....

Maybe I just call it Rachymaree. As many a teacher have said, "KISS"- Keep it simple stupid. Or maybe awesomeandclever.blogspot.com. That's simple enough. But really, people I could use your insight. Share some of the genius; you're holding out on me.

So..... what say you?

It always pays to do your VT.

2009-10-02T14:55:00.003-06:00

A few days ago, in the nick of time, my VT companion, Joyce, and I went out to get our Visiting Teaching done. Like deathbed repentance we were able to visit both before October showed it's glorious face. (Isn't October wonderful!?) We spent longer than normal chatting with our lovely ladies, and one of the topics we came across was canning. I have been a bit sad that my trees (thanks to my over eager trimming) have been barren this year, but at least now I know what I am doing. Definitely learned by error. Last year I had so many apples I was giving them away by the bagful. And that was after making 40 jars of applesauce and keeping a box of eating apples. My companion talked about the pears and apples she wanted to try canning this year and asked the sister we were with many questions. I listened, needing the lessons in canning myself. I only have canned a few times. First time= last year Laurelyn taught me how to do applesauce. I had been present at canning extravaganzas hosted by my mom and sis-in-laws (they are amazing), but never actively did much until Laurelyn offered to let me come over to learn by doing. At least now I would be more helpful if I was to attempt to keep up with the canning queens I call family.

I digress. Yesterday Joyce called and offered all of her fruit to me. For a few reasons, she wasn't going to be canning after all. I, of course, being a lady of great manners(I wish) , graciously accepted. Today I spent an hour smiling away, while picking delicious apples and pears from my neighbor's trees. 3 boxes later I am excited to get canning. I have never done pears. Wish me luck!

What are your favorite things to can? Or do you hate canning and love the food so next year you are thinking of hiring someone to do the dirty work for you? Anything you have received because of Visiting?

My Baby Steps to Fitness or A Very Long Post

2009-09-25T12:40:00.000-06:00

I wanted to post some things that have worked for me for weight loss. Plus, I should share my current weight. Public humiliation is a great way to boost motivation.

Starting Weight: 180 lbs
Current Weight: 162.2 lbs

That is right, ladies (I don't think any gentlemen read this.... very few ladies do at that), I have lost almost 18 lbs! My starting weight for the Biggest Loser Extravaganza was 166. It’s a little sad I can't count the first 14 pounds lost, but, well, I don't care that much. I am just glad I lost them. Let's hope they can't find their way back home. If you see them, and they beg for your help, please, give them false directions.

My goal weight is 130 lbs. I am 5'6'' so I think that is a healthy weight to shoot for. My friend Danielle keeps expressing concern about my goal weight. Just this morning she said, "I think I like you with a little meat on your bones." I retorted smartly, "No, you will like me without the weight too, because we are friends." She laughed and said that was true.

My custom, self-created guidelines are as follows:
-Water, water, and more water. Take your water bottle everywhere. I am really starting to prefer water, but I don’t deny myself if I want a soda, just have a small glass. I like Crystal Light, but I try to shy away from artificial sweeteners, because of the negative possibilities. Artificial sweeteners may actually cause the body to not metabolize foods correctly. Scary. Plus, some artificial coloring as associated with issues like ADHD. Something we have enough of in our house. I digress…

-Smaller Portions. Serve yourself half of your “normal” portion. This is great for me because I am a huge over eater. So my half portions are probably barely smaller than regular servings. Have snacks (yes, they should be healthy) between meals to curb hunger. When I first started the smaller portions I was so hungry, but after about a week I was fine.

-Eat when you are hungry. Once you adjust to the half portions then you will learn to listen to your body and the cues it gives for real hunger and how it feels to be satisfied and not over full. Drink a glass of water before diving into a big meal… I heard that sometimes your body will signal hunger when it may just need hydration… anyone heard otherwise?

-Exercise daily. Start small... take the stairs. I usually skip Sundays or sometimes, just go on a family walk. Get creative. Get out of the mind set that only going to the gym counts as exercise. Go for a walk. If the kids are playing in the yard do jumping jacks. If they are watching TV do crunches on a ball. My 2 year-old loves to jump around while I do jumping jacks and my 4 year-old gets to practice counting skills by counting them. Sometimes the kids and I race to the fence and back or we play chasing games. If you can change your lifestyle to being more active continuously throughout the day, rather than the once a day allotted time, it helps.

-Buy healthy snacks. If the junk food is around you are going to eat it. Some of my favorites. Apples and peanut butter, string cheese, almonds, yogurt, pretzels, etc.

-No Deprivation. If you need some chocolate, eat some. Just try to limit the portion. I grab a few chocolate chips. Try to satisfied with fewer and fewer. This helps me control the binging, and I am really starting to be satisfied with the small portion. It is strange. I also switched to buying my favorite chips (Ruffles Sour Cream and Cheddar) in the 99 cent bag. I had to do this, because I would eat the big bag in a day. Sad, but true. I have no control when it comes to chips. Oh, Doritos. Why do I love the cheesy kind best? Anyway, the point. Control is slowly building because I don’t deprive myself of anything. This way I am gaining better eating habits through baby steps. “It really works.”

-Acknowledge positive and be grateful. I have a friend that looks in the mirror daily and tells herself 10 positive things about her body. She does this in the buff…. It sounds like it would make you like your body less, but actually the few times I have done it I have walked away feeling better about my body and being grateful for it. So, find the positive about your body and recognize them. Start small. For example: “I have nice eyes.” (Heaven forbid I get rid of those…. “Jo, how could you, your one beauty!”) “I might be slow, but I have great endurance in my workouts.” “I have all my limbs.” “I have a full head of hair” “I might be struggling with adult acne, but at least my skin is mostly clear…..” and so on.

-Get adequate sleep. I am still working on this one.... I have trouble being motivated to sleep when the kids are asleep and I have a quiet house. Relax. Meditate. Turn off the radio once in a while. Clear your head.

If all else fails look at President Hinckley’s Be’s from a health perspective.

Be Clean. Be Still. Be True. Be Grateful. Be Motivated. Be Humble. Be Smart. Be Positive. Be Prayerful.

I feel like I am forgetting something.

Now, go and make your own list. What do you do? Any tricks you want to share?

The Wisdom of Dickens

2009-09-24T10:36:00.000-06:00

"There is nothing better than a friend, unless it is a friend with chocolate." — Charles Dickens

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"Be careful about reading health books. You may die of a misprint." — Mark Twain

"Music melts all the separate parts of our bodies together." — Anais Nin

"Be who you are and say what you feel, because those who mind don't matter, and those who matter don't mind." — Dr. Seuss

"Two things are infinite: the universe and human stupidity; and I'm not sure about the universe." — Albert Einstein

"Be the change that you wish to see in the world." — Mahatma Gandhi

P90X-tra hard

2009-09-19T15:13:00.002-06:00

Yesterday on Facebook I made a comment about wanting P90X the "extreme" home workout system DVD set. I have wanted to try it out before I save up to buy it.

I found a neighbor with the DVDs and convinced her to let me borrow them. (-Could I try them out? -Sure.) I woke up a little early today and made my first attempt. The manual isn't kidding when it says that this system is only for people in good shape looking for more. I had to modify often, and I only had time to do the first half. Boy, am I sore. It was a great work out, even for just the half hour I had to devote to it. At least the DVDs only target one area at a time, so only part of me is tired and sore (my legs- specifically all the thigh muscles.) I am excited to try more of the 13 discs. I think even if I just did a low modification of the hour long work outs eventually I would work up to be able to work up to full impact. It was a little sad, because I have been working out so much this summer, I guess I haven't been doing all over workouts, just running/jogging, cycling, etc.

About our Biggest Loser adventure. The weigh in went fine, but I was missing a few lbs. Which is bittersweet news. I am glad to have discarded a few more pounds, but I had been pigging out for the two days prior to the weigh in and I weighed less than expected. Don't you want to weigh the most for the first weigh in? What is your opinion?

For our competition, there aren't really any rules. We weigh in every 2 weeks, Thursday nights. Take turns bringing healthy snacks and recipes. Final weigh in is Dec 17. Winner gets $100, 2nd $25, 3rd @15. So I will just continue to follow my made up guidelines/rules. I will post them next. I also should be posting something about how many days I can go without indulging in chips... they are the devil's snare. Goodbye, Ruffles Sour Cream and Cheddar or Doritos. I will only be seeing you once in a while or at parties. I have a 99 cent bag in my night stand. Let's see how long they survive. I want to go eat them right now, but, no, I will stare my temptation in the face and eat some raw carrots, because everyone knows if those carrots were cooked there is no way I would be eating them.

Biggest Loser?

2009-09-15T10:28:00.002-06:00

Hopefully, I will be. Tonight I am supposed to go to a weigh-in. I haven't been to any kind of weigh-in before. A few days ago Sara sent a text invite to their upcoming Biggest Loser competition. Naturally I said, "I'm In!" and so "the pressure's on!" (If you can name the movie I will buy you a soda... I mean a bottle of water.) I need the incentive to really drop the rest of my weight. I am excited, and hopefully I can lose all the wieght I want. The great thing about this, is that even if I don't win the money, I am the winner because I get to be skinny me again!

We are meeting to start our own "biggest loser". I have never actually seen a full episode of the real show. I hate the unecessary "suspense" just say... "you lost 2 lbs." Do they really need to sit there while the scale pretends to take forever? Anyway, I am not a huge fan of most of the reality shows, but I can handle some once in a while.

I have about 30-40 pounds I ~~want to~~ need to lose. The bummer to all this... I can't count the 12 lbs I lost recently. I will tell you more about all this after I know more about it. . . .Plus, I will have posts about how I have lost the weight or changes I make to my existing guidelines.

Swashbucklers

2009-09-15T08:40:00.000-06:00

I saw this commercial a while back and I love it. I saw it again because a friend had an 80's mormon commercial on her blog. Watch it below. Funny.

Light up a room with Sharpie

2009-09-10T06:24:00.003-06:00

Check out this amazing lamp shade. Design done using a Sharpie! What a great idea if you are an artist, which I am not. Maybe Daniel or Jeanette could whip up something this spectacular.

The power of asking.

2009-09-09T11:12:00.003-06:00

I once attended a workshop about finances and lessons taught by really rich guys... one of the keys the speaker taught. Asking, "Is that the best you can do?" I haven't been brave enough to use it much and I didn't use that wording today, but I did ask for a better price.

I just bartered with a website to get a better price. Well, sort of. I bartered with the chat guy. I have been needing to replace the silverware basket and rinse agent cap for our dishwasher. Somehow the basket was broken… well, I know how it happened but that is another story, involving someone (not me) getting angry at it. The cap was loosened by little hands and came out during a wash cycle. It unfortunately met it’s match- the heating coil thing at the bottom. It was smelly and melted when I found it.

I found the items I wanted and then found similar items that had lower prices online. I clicked the chat button and asked if he would match the lower prices. It must be my lucky day. I saved over $6. Not much, I guess, but $6 I can spend on something else!

Any of you have successful bargaining skills? Please share!

Service

2009-09-06T19:01:00.006-06:00

Today my sweet neighbor stopped by unexpectedly with an offering of zucchini bread. She is one of the nicest women. She is upbeat and fun. Happy most of the time. She was fun and smiling all through church. She bore her testimony today about the atonement and it's ability to heal us and lead us to happiness. She is such a positive women and I am so blessed that I know her. She also recently found out she has to go in for surgery again, because her cancer is back. (And this fact was broadcast over the pulpit, and she still reacted positively.) As she handed over the treat I just kept thinking, "no, I can't accept this, I am supposed to be doing something nice for you." I actually was having that internal conversation you have with yourself about "don't you dare cry..." "oh, but I can feel the pressure behind my eyes.." "well, ignore it. You will not cry. Then you will be all embarrassed and splotchy." .... etc...

It is sometimes hard to accept things from others, but I guess that means it is my turn to pay it forward.

What a great example for me to follow. No matter what is ailing you, get out and share something with others.

Have any of you received gifts you felt like you didn't deserve?

Are you missing something?

2009-09-04T14:19:00.000-06:00

Do you sometimes feel an emptiness inside that seems impossible to fill? Do you feel like there is something missing in your life? Do you find yourself in need of a snuggle? If you or someone you know are having these feelings please click here.

I...

2009-09-03T19:40:00.000-06:00

- Did all the laundry. I even folded it and put it away. A miracle.
- Steam cleaned the TV room carpet and stairs.... ugh. Take forever! My carpet gets dirty and stained so fast. It looks good today. I can't promise anything about tomorrow.
- Mowed the lawn. I actually did both the front and the back. I even trimmed the lawn first.
- Went to the Temple with Jeanette.... Thanks Jeanette!
- Made PB cookies for the first time. Corban helped. He loves using the mixer.
- Am excited to read Catching Fire... Sequel to The Hunger Games.
- Went jogging last night. Need to go more often. Have to stop and walk too much.

-& I love my family!!!

Remember the times

2009-08-30T22:00:00.001-06:00

Just thinking about some of my favorite 80's movies. What am I missing?

What are some of your favorites?

2009-08-29T23:19:00.001-06:00

What if we spent the same amount of time and effort being good as we do trying to look good?

Ballet Shoes

2009-08-29T11:13:00.000-06:00

I rented this from the Library and am so glad I did.

I want this.

2009-08-24T22:55:00.000-06:00

Isn't this awesome!

2009-08-24T18:24:00.001-06:00

Love Your Body!

2009-08-22T09:19:00.002-06:00

Wasatch Women Love Your Body 5k/10k

We all finished the 5k, except Jeanette. She did a 7.5k.

It was fun ... at least I beat my lavender race time.

Teaching Tools

2009-08-19T12:18:00.000-06:00

The computer. My kids love it. They often want to play PBSkids.com, but I try to give them variety.
One of the things we like to do is find ways to learn online. We often use Google Image Search to look at animals or places. There are so many things you can find. We also frequent YouTube in search of all sorts of things- the most memorable being swimming with dolphins and how to milk a cow. Some sceening is needed when using YouTube, but you can always save the links to videos you approve.

Today we spent a good half hour on LIVE a website by Intermountain Health Care to encourage a healthy lifestyle. They kids watched videos about how the body works. (Click How the Body Works on the bottom left.)

I also like to find printables, games, etc. There are so many things to use. Corban used to love when I would open a Word Document and let him type. I would tell him the order of letters and when to hit the space bar. I think it really helped him confirm his knowledge of the alphabet. He also loved MiniSebran, a free toddler learning download. It is very simple, but he always wanted to play it when he was younger. They have things like color recognition, numbers, letters (they have to type the letter on the keyboard when they see it), etc.

Do any of you utilize the computer, especially the internet to teach your kids?

Am I Terrible?

2009-08-19T10:03:00.003-06:00

The thing is, school starts next week for Corban and I am very ready for him to be headed to school. I got so used to the schedule last year. I think it helps me be more patient when I have time away from the kids. Summer has been fine, with only a "few" crazy moments, but I need my alone time with Izzy and the house is always in better shape when school is in session. Is it wrong that I need time away from my children?

Not that I am alone in my excitement. Corban loves school, loves the bus, loves his friends, loves his teacher (though he will have a new one this year), and loves to learn new things. He is such a smartie.

Here is Corban waiting for the bus April 2008. I have always loved this picture.

He is so adorable. He really can be one of the sweetest kids on the block. I am always awaiting the aggression and impulsive behavior, but that is something he can't help entirely. Here is to a new year, with new possibilities. I hope he does well with a new teacher. I love you, Corban.

A Complete Family

2009-08-15T22:36:00.004-06:00

[Pictures to come.]

It was so much fun to take family pictures tonight. It was the first time in years that EVERYONE in Dave's family was together. Not to say our kids were obedient and stepford-like, but things actually went pretty well. I just really loved watching everyone. It felt good to have everyone together.

I think my favorite picture was of the all grandchildren. They are so cute. We have some of the cutest kids in the world in our family. You will see. When we get the pictures back I will post them and it spark a jealousy in you that you never knew existed. Those little bodies were so adorable sitting in a line on our ghetto couch in the middle of an orchard. We loved seeing all the deer- there were tons!

Maybe I am just a sentimental fool, but I love family and people and getting together with them. Sure my kids are naughty and disobedient, and they fight with their cousins, or get rough, etc, but it is great to get together. Thanks everyone for letting us continue to come to family functions.

More Happiness:

- Next Sunday I get to see some of my extended family!

- Tomorrow Jordan and Jeanette report in sacrament meeting.

- School starts very soon!

-I love my family!