Happy Valentine's Everyone!

I don't know what I was thinking having my annual doctors appointment on Valentines and so early in the morning. I wasn't thrilled about it, but the weird person in me likes to go and make sure everything is ok. I am happy to report all is well and I was there for a totally of 30 minutes. Nice!

Getting out the door early, to say the least, made for a very crazy morning and sadly I wasn't able to do a fun valentine breakfast. I am hoping I can make up for it with some green pancakes on St. Patrick's Day. Of course my kids had a very busy fun day ahead of them so I wasn't too concerned they would notice the no heart pancakes. They were able to get yummy treats from their grandma this morning (she watched the kids for me...Thanks mom!) & their Nana is coming over later to decorate cookies. They don't know this and will be so surprised to come home from school and find her here. It's good we're going to do something traditional today. Decorating heart cookies is always a favorite.



Despite this morning it has been a great Valentines. I have received several valentine wishes the last couple of days. Kristi sent a very cute valentine and heart. I don't understand how she has the time to make these cute things. I love it, thank you. Hannah sent me a very cute verse on love. It was so thoughtful of you and so beautifully made. Thank you so much. Michelle sent me the most beautiful valentines card. She always has the most unique wonderful creations. It is one of a kind. Thank you. I loved it. Jenn sent me a package of Valentine goodness. First of all I love the letter "A". I am collecting A's so it's perfect, but on the bottom it has my 2007 word DO on it. It's such a beautiful reminder. Then she sent yummy goodies. Did you make them? They were so good. Not to forget amcraft ribbon, pencils, a sweet note, and other fun valentine stuff. Thank you so much Jenn. Thank you to everyone who sent me a Valentine. It has been such a treat to go to open my mailbox as see the goodness.

Tonight Adam and I are going to dinner. Something I always look forward to. Our dinner plans fell through so I think we will be winging it tonight which is never a good sign. The last time that happened we waited 2 1/2 hours to eat. Valentine's Day + restaurants = insanity.

To me the holiday is just another excuse to let someone know you love them. Whether it be friends, family, kids, boyfriend, husband, etc...


Today that is what has been on my mind...the numerous individuals in my life that I love. That have touched me and showed me what love is. How blessed I am to have them in my life. The photo above just happens to be 3 of them.

I hope you all have a fabulous day full of love and goodness.

are we safe?

Right now my thoughts are consumed by the tragic events that took place last night in SLC (here for more info). I am saddened for the victims, their families and loved ones. I'm always shocked and appalled when something like this happens...I never understand why someone chooses to make the decision to ends lives. As I watched the coverage last night and this morning while walking I was overwhelmed with gratitude that my family was safe last night. That we were safe as we went shopping at the grocery store. That we were safe driving. That we were safe in our home.

It really got me thinking how safe are really we? I mean this act of violence was totally random. No one saw it coming as they left for dinner last night. No one could imagine experiencing the unthinkable. As I laid in bed I actually considered a dog, which is huge because I don't want a dog ever, but I simply want to keep my family safe. I don't know all the facts/stats about burglaries and dogs, but I do know in our last house we had someone come look at how safe our home was and what we needed to do to make it more safe. The gentleman told us the best and #1 most deterrent was a dog. I obviously haven't thought definitively to whether or not I would get a dog, but I have thought about it more seriously...shh don't tell my husband he wants a dog. Of course a dog wouldn't help this situation and in fact we can't do anything to prevent something like this from happening to us. I guess though, it bears reevaluating the things we do have control over and making sure we are doing our best to keep our families safe. I couldn't have imagined being there in that situation last night with my family and thinking how I could protect them. I know I would feel better if I knew I was doing all that I could to protect them the ways that I can.

I would love to discuss this...
What are you doing to protect your family?
Do you have a dog and if so is it mainly for protection?
Have you thought about getting a dog?

letting go

I woke Sunday morning feeling one of those emotional days upon me. I never really know how to explain it, I just woke up feeling full. I didn't question the reason for I know my mind has been consumed with thoughts lately...thoughts that haunt me daily. Thoughts I’m trying to work and come to terms with. During these times the only thing that helps is the gift of peace and comfort.

I was hoping that church would provide me with some sort of inspiration and calm me. With the power going out and starting church in darkness I was sure they would cancel, which I did not want to happen. I needed to be there so was grateful that after the first sacrament prayer the lights came back on. After that departure of normalcy, sacrament went as it usually does. Not a lot got in and I really wasn’t able to feel the spirit as I had hoped. I don’t know why I was surprised, I guess because I needed it so much.

The last speaker finished early and so the Bishop stood up and said, “I won’t take a lot of time, but I was impressed to stand up and share a few thoughts”. At this point surprisingly the girls were all looking through books and I was able to give him my undivided attention. I won't go into the stories he told or all that he spoke about, but when he said, “We know what it is that we want, but we don’t always know how we need to get it. Too often in our lives we are expecting the answers from our prayers to come in the way we envision them. The Lord knows us and He knows what we need and how we need it.” I felt an overwhelming sensation that this was what I had gone to church for. This was the answer I was seeking. I know it sounds very basis and very simple...something I have heard many many times before in my life, but at that very moment I felt my Heavenly Father was literally speaking to me. It was exactly I mean exactly what I needed. I have never had a message speak so powerfully too me.

As I thought about it all day. I could see the hand of God in all things in my life. I could see the answers that have already been given and how they didn't come the way I was expecting. How the Lord does know me personally. He knows exactly what I need and what I need to do to get it. That is what was so impressive to me. Most of the time my answers come with my effort. With me doing my part. I know I struggle with being anxiously engaged in my life. I come up with things to worry about, focus on the past, or do whatever it takes so that I don't have to see/do what's right in front of me. I believe one of the reasons why I can't stop thinking about whether or not to have another child is because I'm afraid of what stopping means. It means moving on. Moving forward with life. I'm afraid of what lies ahead and find comfort in what I've already done. Fear is holding me back from life. I now understand my false never ending illnesses, my eating disorder, or not giving all of myself to those I love. They keep me from moving forward. They keep me from having to focus on the things that are really important in my life. They keep me safe, but I know it's a false sense of safety. Because really I know that whatever I do, whatever I give will come back to me in the end so why not give my all to the life I have been given. I can't believe how appropriate my word do is for this year. I believe I was guided to keep that word in mind. To let go and be and enjoy the life I have been blessed with...the life that lies ahead.

So this morning I woke up feeling an overwhelming sense of gratitude for Adam who talks to me into the wee hours of the night, but most importantly listens. For answered prayers. For start overs. For the gift of life.

good mail to report

This last couple of days it has been a delight going to my mail box. I received thank yous from Jordan, Tasha, Robyn, Dani, and Amanda. Thanks for the great cards ladies. It's so delightful opening a mail box full or darling cards. I also got a great Valentine CD from Jordan. Thank you so much. I started listening to it right away when I was running my errands this afternoon. It's awesome. I also got a package a week ago from Victoria who sent me a pear blossom bath set. Thank you so much. It was so sweet of you to send. Hope you're liking your banner.

Right now I home alone waiting to go to dinner with some friends while Adam is out with the kids. It's so luxurious to be home alone. I find it much better than being alone and away. Why is that?

6 happy and weird things about me

I've been tagged by Amanda & Noel (sorry noel your new to me...I don't have your address) to give 6 weird things about me and tagged by Julie to give 6 things that make me happy. Thanks ladies i always enjoy doing these and reading others.

6 weird things about me:

1. I hate it when my husband goes to bed before me. I don't know why, but it does. He now likes to make a joke of it. One night I came in our room and he had put pillows in his place and hid in his closet. I was certain it was him lying there until I pulled the covers off.

2. I don't really like ice-cream. I don't hate it. I just don't crave it and I never have a problem passing on it.

3. I rarely know what I want to eat.

4. I find much more meaning in how something was said rather than understand what was literally said (this was Adam's add on).

5. I hate other peoples feet touching me, but I love mine.

6. I not a phone talker. I would much rather talk in person or do business through email.


6 things that make me happy:

1. capturing the details of my life
2. being with Adam
3. the smell of the earth after it rains
4. hearing my girls laughter
5. doing things for others
6. being creative

Now I'm tagging
Crystalyn
Rebecca
Jill
Hannah
Melanie

how to...accordion box

I've received a bunch of emails and comments about how I made this so I thought I would just do a whole separate post about it. The inspiration came years ago when I saw a box Tara Whitney had made from a class by Allison Beacham.

I've made these boxes in either 2x2 or 4x4 sizes. The one I just made for Megan is 4x4 so that is the instructions I will give you.

1. First you need to get a box. The one I used I believe is made out of papermache. At any rate you can find them at any craft store. They come in all shapes and sizes. (one shown in picture is a 2x2)

2. The guts of the project I made by cutting 12x12 cardstock into 4 inch strips (if your doing your math right you end up with 3). I then creased the strips using a bone folder into three 4 inch sections.

3. Next take your 3 creased strips and glue or tape the ends together in such a way that continues the accordion. Does that make sense? So you'll tape the back of one to the front of the other.

4. Before you adhere the accordion to the box you need to fill it with photos, quotes, or whatever else you want to embellish the squares. I actually cut my paper and photos to 3 7/8 inch squares so there is a small boarder.

5. After I've completed the inside I then paint the box. Once it's dry I make 1/8 inch holes for the ribbon in both the top and bottom. This ends up being a bit tricky, but much easier on the 4x4 than with the 2x2 since I use a hammer and eyelet setter to make the holes. It's the easiest way I've found. Then I set eyelets in the holes to give it a finished look.

6. This is where I decorate the box. I used rubons for mine, but have also mod podge patterned paper or initials with metal letters. Just whatever you want.

7. After the box is done I pull the ribbon through the holes and tie a knot on the bottom portion. On the lid, because it sits on the box tightly, I glue the ribbon down across the top where the accordion will cover it.

8. Lastly I adhere the accordion ends to the box. I forgot to mention that the end piece on the accordion, that adheres to the bottom of the box, should be facing back and shouldn't have anything on it. I use that piece to adhere to the bottom portion of the box so the decorated end sticks out instead of getting lost in the depth. It's sort of hard to explain and probably doesn't make much sense so look here for a visual.

It's as easy as that. Thanks for all your awesome comments and emails. You all sure know how to make a girl feel good. Please email me if you have any more questions or if something doesn't make sense.

Project 6 - accordion box

It's been a while since I've made one of these accordion boxes. The first time I made one I was in love with them. They were 2x2 and so very cute, but very time consuming. If you can recall I mentioned making one for Megan's photo ledge back in October 06 (I think), but so far it has just been a thought. This week I decided to tackle this project. I must say it was something I was definitely looking forward to. I actually didn't think it would happen because I'm still so congested. When I try to do anything my nose just drains. I wish someone could have taken a picture of me working because I literally had a wad of kleenex in my nose. I guess you could say I was determine.

I wasn't sure what I really wanted when I started. I mean I knew the colors (i thought they sort of changed) and pretty much the photos, but nothing else. So I grabbed some paper, rubons, and embellishments and told myself this was all I could use. I have to say that really made a huge difference for me. Usually I walk around wondering what I should use and this way I had no choice. This has got to be my new strategy because it couldn't have worked out better. I was able to do the whole thing, seriously, while Megan was napping and the other two were in school. Nice! I thought for sure I would still be working on this on Saturday.

Here are a few photos of the accordion box.

I couldn't be happier as to how it turned out. I'm looking forward to making more, which is good because Tess saw it and wanted one too. Go here if you want to see more detailed photos.

just one of the reasons

I got this by email today. My husband was in Las Vegas a few weeks ago and after looking through all his papers he found and remembered doodling this in one of his classes. It's good to be reminded that even if I'm not with him I'm still on his mind. I know he's always on mine.

Perhaps he understands me more than he thinks. I needed this today.

another random post

Sorry to hit this with you again, but I don't want to forget.

1. I've been sick for the past few days. Not really bad just congested with a minor sore throat. I do feel achy though and am having a hard time sleeping. So much for my workout plans. I haven't done it since last Thursday. Friday was out since I stayed up way too late the night before. I don't exercise on Saturday or Sunday and now I'm sick. This is always what happens right before I have a 3 month hiatus. I need to encourage myself to start it up once I feel better.

2. Yesterday I got my hair darkened to it's natural dark brown color. I love it, although it does make my face look a bit paler. I don't really care so much about that, but enjoy the shine it has and how healthy it feels.

3. Satruday Adam spent hours trying to switch around light switches. It's a long story, but every light switch in our house has a dimmer or mood lighting. Unfortunately the switch you adjust for the stair lights is in the basement. It has always been very annoying to us so Adam decided to change them. It is something he has done many times before, but for some reason something was wrong. He couldn't figure it out and was forced to call one of his work friends to come help. Thank goodness for connections. The guy came yesterday and ended up spending an hour and a half fixing the problem. I never really understood what happened, but it turns out it wasn't anything Adam did. The pro had a hard time figuring it out.

4. Yesterday after dinner (i'm getting my hair done) Adam and the girls started to play hide and seek. The girls are never really good at staying in their hiding place so before he started he talked it over with them so they would in fact stay hidden. As he was counting his electrician friend (above problem) came to the door. He welcome him in and started telling him about the problem. He had completely forgot about playing hide and seek until he heard Tess call from the basement, "Are you coming yet?" He started laughing and looked at his friend and said, "I'm suppose to be playing hide and seek." It had been at least 15 minutes. I couldn't believe the girls would actually stay in their hiding spot. I was impressed. He said he couldn't find Bella and that she only came out because she had to go to the bathroom.


5. Bella drew this picture in Primary on Sunday. It just made me smile to see her view on the subject. She's not the strongest artist, but she loves to do it and that's all that counts. In fact we were filling out a form a few weeks ago and it asked what subjects Bella was strong in. When I asked her she said, "Art". I'm glad she is confident in her ability. (Sorry for the background noise. She drew another picture on the back and it came through when I scanned it.)


6. Yesterday Tess and Megan discovered a new game. They went from room to room jumping on the beds to see which one they liked best. I think it was mine, but Tess' was a close second. Apparently Bella's and Megan's are just too small for jumping, but good for sleeping.

7. My girls got some good mail over the weekend from annalisa. She sent an assortment of nail polish and chocolate kisses. I don't have a picture of it because Tess was so excited she took it to school as show and tell. So funny.

We also received mail from Melanie yesterday. A darling card and nail polish. It looks like I am set for playing manicure and pedicure with my girls. Thank you so much for thinking of us.

watch my faith grow

Several weeks ago Bella and Tess brought home from church planted seeds in a plastic cup. Tess was especially thrilled to watch the seed turn into a plant telling me "if the seed grows so does my faith". I was hoping she understood the metaphor because to tell you the truth I am not good with plants and I was very skeptical that we would actually see anything green. Actually I think we've done this before and it has never worked.

After we watered them and made sure to put them in the best window possible, I have to admit, I totally forgot about them...good thing Tess did not. Apparently she would look at them everyday until she saw something green. At that point she came and showed me and was thrilled it was growing (I was too). The plants were so dry I couldn't imagine how they were still alive let alone growing. At that point we watered them and from that day on we have kept a close watch. It has become part of our morning routine to check in on the plants. I just loved watching them get excited with how big they were getting. I could tell they saw it as an accomplishment...such an easy way to instill confidence.

Several times while we were caring for the plants I reminded them that the seed started so very small and since we took care of it they have been able to grow into plants...the more we care for them the bigger they'll get. I reminded them of what they learned in primary about our faith and how it can grow if we take care of it by learning about Jesus, reading our scriptures as a family, and being kind to others. I know Bella was getting it and hopefully Tess was too. I am grateful for these simple ways to teach our children and even more grateful for the leaders who care enough to help us parents who aren't so creative.

Do you have a fun creative way to teach your children about values/standards that are important to your family?

on my mind

1. Last night I went to bed at 3am and am not feeling it as much as I had anticipated. What was I doing? I was hanging out at Crystalyn's house with my other friends Tami and Tiffanie (hopefully they will soon start blogs) having the best conversations. Our other friends had gone home earlier and we were headed out as well, but couldn't stop talking so we moved back to the couch and got comfortable. I had the best time. So good in fact I was unaware of the time that had gone by. When we got up to leave I couldn't believe we had sat there talking for 5 hours. It is exactly what I crave...rich meaningful conversations that bond friendships together. I only wish the other girls could have stayed.

2. Do to last night and my visiting teachers coming to visit me today I again realize how important it is to truly act on our promptings. I always hesitate and I know I shouldn't and am doing everything I can to try and recognize these thoughts and act on them. All apart of my word for 2007 "DO". I don't think it was a coincidence that it was discussed last night, that I talked about with my VT ladies this month, and then was reminded of it once again today when my VT came over. I really need to be better about writing how often a subject comes up in my life so I don't forget someone is try to teach me something.

3. Lately I've had a wicked craving for chips. This is strange for me as I usually only crave chocolate. Sadly we don't have anything good in the house or should I say luckily. That could be very dangerous indeed.



4. I can share my project for the week now that we've had the shower for my friend Dani (the reason for our gathering last night). I made her these cute little onesies for her babe. I thought they turned out so well it actually gave me a lot of ideas for other projects. I get so excited just thinking about it.

5. I just found out I don't have to teach on Sunday. I love teaching, but since I do it every week it's nice to have a break. Plus it lets me sleep in on Sunday morning.










6. I always read about good mail and am amazed and comforted by the generosity of others, but when it comes to my door, literally unexpected, it just blows me away. I can't help, but smile and it really does brighten my whole mood. Thank you to Crystalyn for the thank you card it means so much to me especially after last night. Thanks to Jenny for the great package of note cards, pencils, and the inspire plaque. What a perfect way to start the weekend.

7. I love my husband. I know that may sound cheesy to some, but right now I am so grateful for what we have and his willingness to work with me to get our marriage what we dream about. He actually said to me last week, "I don't think we have anything to talk about." This is actually a good comment referring to the fact that we've talked it all out and now it just boils down to doing what we know.

8. Bella is going to be with her Nana this weekend, Tess is going to spend the day with her Dad, and Megan and I will be hanging out on Saturday. Sunday my mom has invited us for dinner to watch the super bowl. She didn't think we'd want to go because Adam's not big into sports, but spending time with family is something he loves so we're going after all. Lucky for me I got a new magazine in the mail today I can save and read while they are watching. I am really looking forward to the way this weekend is shaping up.

Any big plans??

6:30 am...

Photo by tess taken last week

use to come early and now not so much. For two weeks I've gotten up early to exercise before my girls wake up. Last week I wasn't happy about it, but this week my body has been getting up on it's own, assuming that I get to bed at a decent time, which I have. It's something I've done in the past, but have been really lazy about since last winter. I use to go to the gym, but Megan kept getting sick with ear infections so I stopped going...and when I stop going it's so hard to go back.

I can't tell you how good it feels to be on this schedule. I love getting up early and getting ready for the day so it's awesome to have already exercised too. I never get my shower in before I'm bombarded by the morning routine, but usually do that once breakfast has been served.

Ok so now with the irony...all I want to do is get up early to exercise and have a bit of me time, but it seems my days are just starting earlier with no benefits. The last couple of mornings my girls have been getting up one by one earlier than normal. What's up with that? Yesterday I got up and decided to do pilates instead of the treadmil so I stayed in my room to do it. I hadn't been exercising 5 minutes before Tess woke up and then a stream of kids after that. I was bugged. What am I doing up earlier if I don't get the benefit? It happened again today as well. Bella got up as I was headed downstairs (6:30) to walk/run. When I asked her what she was doing she said I told her she could finish Giada, aka everyday italian, she had to stop watching last night. What? Are you kidding me? I forget how literal she takes everything, but then to actually get up...I was shocked. Then Tess got up shortly after that and Megan. Aargh!

With that said, I'm not giving up. Right now I want to, but I can't. I know if I do it will be months before I get on this early schedule and it feels too good to stop. I just wish my kids would cooperate more by sleeping in to their normal time. Is that too much to ask?

Do any of you get up early to exercise?

my reality...

School fair, September 2006, photo interrupted by fly

None of the kids cooperating at the same time, the little one screaming, the older one looking like she's going to whack the younger one (really she's swatting the fly), and the oldest looking (apparently) smugly into the camera while the younger two go crazy.

Yep, exactly.

This is the reality I love to capture.

full circle

I wasn't aware until a couple of weeks ago that I have truly found my place. I was in the primary for 8 years before moving on to the young womans program. It was a strange transition for me, I had been so use to hanging out with 5-8 yr olds, but I was excited for the opportunity. I remembering being so terrified the first time I taught them, and as I figured out, for all the wrong reasons. It wasn't much different from the younger kids except the questions they would ask. I quickly learned that along with my normal prep I had to be ready for the questions that were bound to come my way. My girls were thinkers.

I'm not sure what's happened in the last few months, perhaps the girls trust me more or I'm beginning to realize I've found my place, but my class time could not be going better. It seems each lesson the spirit is there and I can tell the girls are getting it, that they care and want to know. Yesterday was no exception.

We got to class late because we're learning a song for New Beginnings so I felt I had to rush through my lesson, but I just kept feeling I should let the lesson take it's course. It was on gifts of the spirit and to tell you the truth I didn't imagine I would get very many questions. The leader that is over me was in the class and she gave an example of the power of faith. Her newborn was having heart problems and she knew without a doubt that if her father could give her child a blessing all would be ok and sure enough it was. Her son is now on a mission. I was glad she shared her story and then I moved on. I could see in front of me one of the younger girls in my class struggling and then finally she raised her hand. I quickly finished my thought and than called on her. After hearing the story of the leader's son she became very confused as to why her faith wasn't strong enough to save a cousin who was born with problems. Her family had fasted and prayed, given blessings, but in the end the baby didn't make it. She wanted to know, "why wasn't my faith strong enough?". I was caught off guard and as the girls was asking she started to cry. I of course was touch by her question because I have certainly been there before wondering why my faith wasn't strong enough. It's an amazing thing what happens when the spirit is in the classroom. Suddenly my mind was flooded with being that age, going through tragedy, feeling of helplessness and anger. I was also reminded of the RS lesson that I read last week thanks to so many of you who spoke about on your blogs. With all that information rushing to my mind in seconds I was able to give her a meaningful response that I felt she would be able to take with her.

When I walked out of the classroom yesterday I was shown again that things do happen for a reason in our life. That perhaps the experiences that I've had, good or bad, can be used to help others through their journey. I never would have thought my heartache or confusion I felt years ago would help someone overcome one of their struggles today. Life is beautiful. What a gift we have been given to be able to touch each other for good. To help each other along the way and take part in each others life. Though I know it wasn't me who taught that girl yesterday...I'm utterly grateful that I could be used, if even for a moment, bringing peace to someones life.

Project 4

I hope you don't mind me sharing my projects a week. I can't even tell you how much I've enjoyed getting to all the things I've wanted to, but somehow never found the time. I suppose you need to make it a priority.


This week I focused on my entryway which has needed help since I moved in last year. On the left side we have a bench and shelve we bought at Downeast Home. It has been there this whole time, but just didn't look lived in or I should say it had a lack of personality due to the fact that nothing was on it. I've been buying things as I see them from places like Tai Pan and finally put them all together. I also wasn't sure what to do for the cubbies so I just bought baskets. It certainly adds to the piece. I can't tell you how hard decorating is for me, but I must say I love it and so enjoy the changes it makes to our home. It so much more inviting when you walk in.


We just put money down on custom bookcases for our study/library (I'm so excited about this) so we moved this big old antique desk/buffet out into the entry (right side). It works really well, but was a challenge to think of how to fill it. I decide to put a bunch of picture frames all over the desk. I only have a few right now, but I've been buying frames one at a time and hope in the next few months it will be covered with my favorite photos. The blue picture at the end is a drawing Tess drew at school. She was thrilled that I put it up so I thought it would be fun to change the drawing every week for the girls to see their art displayed. The word "sweet" is from Target to represent Valentine's Day. I will switch it out with something after feb 14.

Perhaps you can tell from the 2nd photo that my entry is rather long, which is why I feared it so much. Since we moved the buffet into the entry it booted this small table so we moved it into the middle section of the entry. I know that sound sort of strange...I guess you'd just have to see it. Anyway I finally framed one of my favorite photos of Tess blowing a dandelion and hung it right above the table. The frame is 16x20 and the photo 11x14 so it makes quite a statement. Adam didn't see it until he came home from Las Vegas (Wednesday) and couldn't believe what a difference it made to the space.

I feel so proud of myself for getting it done even though it wasn't the most comfortable thing for me to do. I still have some work to do, adding more frames and what not, but love what I got done. I seriously just want to sit on my bench for hours and enjoy my efforts.

I hope you are all enjoying a fabulous weekend.

Lately...

We've been doing a lot of nail painting in my house. It's something the girls love doing and I don't mind either as long as they can wait for their nails to dry, which seems to be quite challenging for Megan. I have a bright pink color which we use every time and they usually love, but now that we've recoated like 3 times due to the polish chipping in only a day or two they keep asking for different colors. Sadly I don't stock up on nail polish so the colors are vastly limited. Tess told me today that Lolo (her aunt) has all kinds of colors and she should just wait for her to do them. Suddenly I felt uncool and a need to stock up on some hip new colors. Thanks Lori. Maybe we should bring her to your school and let you do a manicure for her...would you do that?

Photo by Tess

Lately as I've been looking through my photos to save them, don't forget to make a copy, I realize how absent Bella is in a lot of photos (I need to be better at taking more photos when she gets home). It has been a hard change for me not having her around. I mean don't get me wrong I love them in school, but I feel I rarely get to see her and it makes me sad. It makes me really appreciate the time I get to spend with Tess and Megan and am doing my best to make it last because time is quickly approaching when Tess will be gone all day as well. I remember a time when all I wanted was for them to be in school and now I want time to slow down. They're going up too fast.


So, with Bella's absence, I've been noticing these two little girls of mine becoming fast friends. When Bella's around Megan usually gets overlooked, but with no one else to play with Tess has been quite taken with Megan. It's been a joy to see them playing quietly in the basement together without any encouragement on my part or laughing together about nonsense. They are alike in many ways so I'm surprised it has taken so long for their friendship to take off (I suppose it helps for some maturity on Megan's part). For instance, they love to play dress up and be girly girls...stuff Bella wouldn't do because it doesn't interest her. It's been a delight to see the two of them growing closer and hope this will be the beginning of a strong friendship between the two of them. Something I hope for all my girls.

different is good

I've realized from the beginning that my eldest child, Bella, is a bit different from most kids. To the extend that I thought perhaps something was wrong with her and actually did get her tested for autism. The test came out negative, thank goodness, but have still thought she was unique. This latest note on her door has just convinced me even more.


She is hyper aware of what's around her and what she is and is not comfortable with. I remember a few years ago we had friends over playing all day, day after day, and she came to me in tears saying, "I just need a break". She already knows she needs her alone time. I have always been impressed with how mature this observation was to a 5 year old. She has also found that writing notes is a productive way of being heard or getting what you want, opposed to interrupting or arguing with a parent who is inevitably going to win. I'm use to her writing little notes to tell me what she would like for dinner or that she needs to talk to me. So when I walked by her room last week it was no surprise to me to see a note hanging on her door that read, "1 minute please I need to be alone". It did, however, make me again keenly aware of how adult like she already is.

Now if only I could use this tactic on my door and have it actually work.

Productivity

I have been extremely tired the last few days, not to mention crampy, so all I want to do is lie in bed all day. It has been so hard for me to get up in the morning even with a full night rest. I'm not certain what's going on with me, but I'm determined to push through it and continue with my goals.


So despite the way I have been feeling I must say I've been rather productive. I tacked the fridge, which is never a hard job, just not fun to do. It always leaves my fridge feeling quite empty, but oh so clean. I feel like every time I walk by I'm opening it up just to delight in my efforts.

I also worked on what will be our food storage underneath the stairs. It's not a big area, but it was stuffed to the gills...to the point that if you opened the door stuff would fall on you. It also was a surprisingly easy task. Most things just needed to be taken up to the attic for storage. It felt really good to get that done.

I was also on carpool duty today since the girl that goes to school with Tess was sick. I ended up taking her and picking her up along with the older kids in elementary. Man, all I can say is today I am grateful for carpools. I forgot how much I was in the car last year and I certainly don't miss it. I have a good thing going this year only driving Tess and her friend to preschool 3 days a week. I feel lucky.













I also got some good mail today...Two very nice thank you cards from Kelly and Lisa that made me smile. It has been great getting to know you both. You're right Kelly it is no small miracle finding a friend. I feel so lucky to have found so many in the blogging world.

While making dinner the over ripened bananas kept staring at me so admits my homemade chicken noodle soup efforts I started making banana bread. All I have to say about that was it was so worth it, even though me and the girls made a huge mess with the flour.

Although it doesn't sound like such a crazy busy day it seemed like that to me. I can't wait for the bed. In fact I'm on my way there now. We just put the kids to bed and I think I will read a bit. Such a perfect end to a productive day.

Does this make anyone else laugh?

As I was looking through Bella's school work today I found this...

It cracks me up that as she read through the answers she decided to go with "break" instead of "see". I wonder what was going through her head at the time. I especially love that her teacher didn't mark her as wrong realizing that it was a valid answer, just not the best. She must wonder what goes on at our house...a lot of ruined screens I guess.

week 3...

and still going strong. This is the project I worked on last week (along with the mouse pads), but am just getting around to blogging it. I already had these photos printed and in frames so pretty much I just painted the "M" and hung the shelf. It just adds a little bit more of us to our house that makes me smile every time I walk up my stairs. I am currently working on my entry way so hopefully at the end of the week I can show you my efforts. I just love this project once a week. It gives me something to look forward to and I'm always thinking of what I want to accomplish.

Are you working on anything this week?

I also found these layouts on my HD that I did last November and never did post. I guess with my HD failure scare I want to make sure to have double back ups.

see hear do

My friend Esther came up with this concept to teach children the alphabet with there sounds. It's all about seeing the letter, hearing the sound, and then doing an action to help the child remember. She has been working for several years now to get these books published and has finally found a way to produce them in order to make them affordable for everyone, which has been her goal.

I have to say her program is amazing and I have seen it work first hand with my children. Bella (6) learned the alphabet with sounds by the time she was 3. She is an amazing reading now and it has really helped her to gain the confidence she needed. Tess (4) was the same way and her preschool teachers tell me what an awesome job she's doing reading 1 vowel words. I have yet to do this with Megan, but am looking forward to it with these new books.

Esther's books are finally ready to ship and the website is up and running. So check it out to learn more about the program. I'm telling you if you have a preschooler this will be the best money you can buy. It's a fabulous program and it's so fun to do with your children...it will not disappoint. She is also having a open house this week so email me if you want more info or you can just visit her website to have it shipped to your door.

quick reminder

I want to post about my project for the week and other things on my mind, but just wanted to tell you something I was again reminded of at church today.

We had ward conference today and the Sunday school was combined. A member of the Stake Presidency gave the lesson which ended in an interesting question and answer session. At the very end he told us of a fireside that was going to take place in the next month (they would of course have posters for this). The fireside was going to be from a man, sorry can't remember his name, who is an emeritus of the seventy now heading up a committee from the First Presidency of the church all about the avian flu. Apparently the church's stand is not if, but when we are going to be hit. It was actually quite disturbing to hear, but honestly a good reminder to make sure we are continuing our efforts to get our year supply of food storage.

I am looking forward to this fireside and will share more information when I can, but for now wanted to remind you to make sure we are all doing our best to obey the counsel of the Prophet by getting together our food storage. You never know when you might need it for and if we're faced with this dreaded flu we could potentially be quarantined in our homes for a long period of time.

Hope you find this reminder as inspiration and not a damper on your evening.

:)

power of music

After reading Kristi's post I was once again reminded of how powerful music can be. I have not always been into music. In fact I wouldn't say I'm way into music now. I love it. Love listening to it and what it does to my mood, but I don't seek it out. I'm grateful when I find something or someone turns me on to an awesome song that begs me to change the way I listen...most likely Lori or Adam who are always finding treasures. My favorite songs are always about the words and the melody comes second. The words are the first things I pay attention to and if I can't relate I usually don't like the song. Of course dance songs are not like this for me, quite the opposite. I usually never listen to the words for fear of what I might hear. I can't forget to mention how much I love music without words. Right now my favorite album is Pride and Prejudice. My best find in a long time. I can't get enough...it speaks volumes to me.

There are songs that no matter my mood make me cry, or keep me in a solemn mood, or make me dance, or make me think, or help me to create. I love that about music, that it can change your mood in an instant. It's so powerful for me that it's one of the things I turn to when I'm in a photography funk. I grab my ipod and my camera and listen to music as I snap away. I let the music do the talking and it has really helped me to break the funk. I must say I've always liked the result.

Last fall I participated in a challenge. I took lyrics to a song and shot photos based on it. It sounds easy enough, but it was quite challenging. (I knew about this on my trip so I was lucky enough to experience different surroundings.) The best thing about the challenge was how much I learned about myself through my style. The lyrics I choose were Crystal Ball by Keane. I could be as creative as I wanted so as you can see I definitely used photoshop.

Who is the man I see
where I'm supposed to be?
I lost my heart, I buried it too deep
under the iron sea.

Lines ever more unclear,
I'm not sure I'm even here,
The more I look the more I think that I'm
starting to disappear.

I don't know where I am,
and I don't really care,
I look myself in the eye,
there's no one there.
I fall upon the earth,
I call upon the air,
but all I get is the same old vacant stare.



Oh, crystal ball, hear my song,
I'm fading out, everything I know is wrong,
So put me where I belong.

found this & this...

when I looked through my photos this evening. Looks like Adam's been picking up the camera. All I can say is how much it made me smile to find these treasures. It's rare that I make an appearance in my girls life in front of the lens. Hopefully it will happen more often.

Saturday, January 13, 2007

Friday, January 12, 2007

Oh yeah and some good news. I heard from PC Laptops today and apparently it was the casing that was damaged. My photos are not lost. NICE!! Couldn't be happier with that news.