See you in 2011

This year as we were brainstorming ideas for our Christmas card we kept getting distracted my memories. Memories of past Christmas fun and memories from this year. Our card ended up being a pretty good end of the year re-cap. While we have one more trip planned that I'm sure will go on our list of great things in 2010.

Here's our 10 top list of 2010 

• Camping-Karebear loved Young Womens camp and Jolly J enjoyed Camp Big Springs

• Seeing fighting bison, lots of bears and the sites of Yellowstone.

• Tearing out our old kitchen floor.

• Tator and Bud Boy weekly trips to grandma's house where they get to play games.

• Neighborhood bike rides and seeing Tator learn to ride without training wheels

• Minnie turning eight and getting baptized.

• Taking a wrong turn while hiking to Stewart Falls and doing some improve rock scaling.

• Attending band and choir concerts, soccer games, karate tournaments, gymnastics shows, and piano recitals.

• Rafting down the Big Springs River

• Bud Boy growing up and overcoming fears of water, amusement park rides and swings.

and a 

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Why I Smile Today

1. A husband who still makes me happy in every sense of the word
2. A polite, happens to be my buddy, two year old
3. My eleven year old offering to help
4. My five year old making her bed without complaining
5. My thirteen year old's chatter
6. My eight year old's  imagination
7. The door bell ringing as neighbors drop off goodies
8. Movies and popcorn
9. Nights where we enjoy stories of service and quiet miracles
10. The peaceful glow of Christmas lights
11. All things put in their place at night
12. Folded laundry
13. Cheesecake
14. Knowing a dear friend is only a phone call away
15. The calming influence of playing the piano
16. The inspiration and knowledge I can get as I study the scriptures
17. Peace as I await answer to prayer
18. A warm hot shower
19. Lotion
20. Peppermint or tin roof sundae ice cream
21. Playing card games
22. Knowing Heavenly Father knows me
23. Knowing that Jesus Christ personally understands everything we may go through
24. Knowing Joseph Smith lived and translated the gold plates
25. "Last Christmas I Gave You My Heart"
26. The sparkle in my children's eyes as they experience service to another
27. Quiet mornings that are broken with the soft light of the Christmas tree
28. Homemade soup
29. Pajamas
30. A healthy, relatively pain free body
31. Magnets on the fridge that hold memories of fun family times
32. Internet-I can find it all within the comfort of my home
33. Nutcracker ornaments
34. The white night sky and then waking up to a blanket of snow
35. Laying in bed hearing the heat blowing through the house
36. Parents who gave me life

My Thoughts of Late

By now you have all seen the photos, read the news stories, and in your own way mourned and discussed the tragedy that united our little town Friday morning when the Provo Tabernacle caught fire.

Early Friday morning my two year old snored me out of bed at an hour that I would have preferred to still be sleeping. While I was slowly making some sense of the morning, my oldest came running down the stairs stating that the radio had announced that the tabernacle was on fire. My husband turned on the news and one by one we gathered around the television. My five year old said, "What about conference?" (many of the stakes hold Stake Conference at the tabernacle, ours is in just a few weeks). We also thought how our school's choir was supposed to have a concert at this building the first of the year. Truly this was a building that was well used and loved by all members of our community.

Late Friday night we took the opportunity to drive by the tabernacle. I was surprised to still see flames through the windows. As we sat in the parking lot kiddie corner and reminisced my thoughts centered on one thing. How fast life can change.

Lately, my thoughts and prayers have been centered on some pretty specific decisions I have been trying to make. The Lord answers prayers in is own time and way. As I patiently and faithfully continue on with my life, I have come to feel an overwhelming peace. I have also felt very strongly that answers will come but for now I just need to enjoy what I have. Oftentimes in life we can say something but it is an entirely different thing to feel it.

The last few weeks I felt in increase of love and appreciation for my children. I have found myself actually just enjoying the time I spent doing the things they want to such as playing games with toddlers and reading books. I have felt an increase of patience for tasks I often feel consume a lot of time such as helping with homework late into the night. As my husband put it the other day, "it is time we get to spend together". Sometimes it's not what we do but the time we spend together. I have known this but truly had a hard time not just wanting "to get it done" when it's day to day tasks. Especially when they aren't necessarily on my to do list.

We never know what lies ahead in life. We just need to enjoy and appreciate what is here today. Life brings changes and it is so much easier to handle them when we know we have memories without regret. 

Holiday Cheer

My kids and I sure enjoyed viewing this multiple times last night.

Keeping It Real

A few years ago we where given this. It is one of our favorite neighbor gifts. I'm sure they would be amazed that we still have it.  Not only do we have it but we use it! Each night we gather around and add one piece to the nativity to count down the days to Christmas. It is a great way to remember why we celebrate. Each piece has a saying about Christ and then we sing a favorite Christmas song before retiring to bed.


Each morning one of the children gets to move Mary and Joseph on their journey towards Bethelem. Christmas Eve we then put up the other figures as we read the Christmas Story from the Bible.

 Did you notice they are half way there?

Only twelve more days until Christmas!

Are you ready?

This girl had a birthday

Her one request was a friends party. As she put it, "I have never had one". She had a ton of ideas for her party. When she suggested a Christmas party I jumped and ran with that one. After all it may be the only year she is okay with Christmas and birthday being combined. Plus, I had all the ideas from the few school Christmas parties I have done. Since she isn't in school yet this would be fun for her.

The decorations where easy (all ready up)

She picked cookie decorating

We played pin the nose on Rudolph

Gotta love the aim at this age

            



























"Don't Eat Santa"

And pass the present

 As for party favors we had to go with filled stockings

Of course the highlight was the presents

And a chance to play with new toys which included a little dress-up

Go, Dog. Go!

Do your kids pick a favorite book?

Is it then read over and over and over?

Do they request anybody they can to read it to them?

This is the current stage of my son. He has read this book so much he now has it memorized. He showed off this skill, to the delight of his sisters, this past weekend. They were so thrilled that they had to video him.

I have had multiple requests to post this on the blog.

Since they are probably the ones who read our blog the most.

Here's for you kids....... (The unedited, spontaneous look into our lives).

It is the worst of times and the best of times

I have a greater appreciation for those who blog everyday. I only did it for a week but it took me almost a month of typing a little here and there to compose that week. I had to do just one more post before I spend time on something else. I needed to wish my mother a Happy Birthday!

You know how they say you won't really appreciate your own mom until you go through it yourself. Don't you hate it when their right?

There are times I have found myself thinking about what I put my mother through. Sometimes I think if I was this bad I don't want to know. Mostly, though, I have gained an appreciation of how much FUN it can be.

Thanks mom for putting up with the frustration and challenges but mostly thanks for enjoying life with us. That's what I remember the most from my childhood and what a majority of being a mother today is for me.

Black Friday

How do you like to shop?

For me I hate last minute shopping! I hate crowds! In fact I would prefer to pay a little bit more and avoid the crowds. If I can find it on the internet and it has free shipping that's the way I go every time.

If I don't have Christmas shopping done before Thanksgiving I'm not a happy camper. Thankfully, for the most part, I am all done. We had a couple of items that my husband was convinced were such a great deal on Black Friday it was worth heading out. I didn't, so...... I began searching while the kids were watching Star Wars (my husband got these for his birthday so we have been enjoying some marathon watching during this school break).

I got lucky and happened to find these items at the same price and no shipping. Thank you internet! It made my day to know I didn't have to get up at 4:00 am this morning. Sleeping in was fantastic!  I am so grateful for the internet.

The human body

Thanksgiving. A day for the school age kids to learn about the Mayflower, pilgrims and the Indians. A day to celebrate and remember what we are thankful for. A day for family. But really it's a day for FOOD! (or at least that's been my main focus the last few hours as I prepared for 25 people to descend on our home).

Today I figured would be the perfect day to do this post-without a body what's the point of today.

I graduated from college with a bachelor degree in nursing and then soon after took the qualifying test (NCLEX) to be a RN (registered nurse). A long time ago I made the decision to stay at home full time rather than try and work part time. It has been a long time since I have worked so I am often hesitant to tell people I am a nurse. I have kept up my license. Having my license is a great peace of mind for I know I could go back to work if I needed to. (I would definitely want to take a refresher course as I fear my skills are a little rusty). To keep up a license you have to either work or do continuing education.

Working on continuing education is what I have been doing for the last little while. I have been reminded how much I love learning about medical related things.

The human body truly is amazing!

There is so many facets to it. I am in awe that for the most part everything functions correctly. It is amazing that our body can heal itself and take care of illnesses.When it can't, it is so neat that we have learned so much about what a body needs to function properly that we can do things to restore it.

I am so grateful for our bodies and the medical knowledge we have acquired. I'm so glad we are continually learning more and more about this amazing gift from our Heavenly Father.

I am also grateful I can enjoy food! Now off to find some pie.....

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

My kids

The other day I read a post written by a mother of a handicapped child. This son was born healthy but had a reaction to a vaccine which left him physically changed. It was his sixteenth birthday and she shared how sometimes she allows herself at certain milestones to think about what life might have been. It was that same week that I read another blog where a dear sweet child was called home after an unfortunate accident.

Prior to this time I was dealing with some issues with some of my children that I felt to be overwhelming. I was reminded.....

One of my main desires in my pregnancies was to have a healthy child. I know we all have that desire, but for me it was a real fear of having a handicapped child. Please don't read prejudice into this. I have nothing against handicapped children. They have a special place in my heart.  I am well aware of how special they are and the blessing they can be. My husband has a handicapped sister and she truly is a blessing in our family. My father-in-law is the first to state he believes she is here for him and the lessons he needed to learn. They have a special relationship and she truly adores her father. If we were to have had a handicapped child I would have been fine with it, but that doesn't mean it was something I would wish for.

I was quite sick for the first 20 weeks of each pregnancy. I made the personal decision not to take prescription medication for I knew if something was to happen that could have been linked back to medication I would never forgive myself.  (Please note this was a personal decision and something I don't feel is best for everyone).

I was blessed with healthy children. Just having them born that way is no guarantee though. Things happen in life where this may change or they may even die. I was reminded how grateful that right now my child are alive and healthy. Even though they are strong willed at times, I am so grateful that they are able to experience life and it's traditional milestones. Being reminded that I endured some pretty rough times dealing with morning sickness was the perspective I needed that I can endure these particular challenges. I went through a lot to get them here. I can handle raising them.

Do you hear what I hear?

This is my favorite time of year for music. It is at this time of year I am grateful for the efforts we have put into teaching our children piano. I love hearing them play Christmas songs. My absolute favorite is playing duets with them. I hope it is a fond memory for them as well.

This year we even added in the flute  My oldest has been playing the flute for about two years. Her sister, who is 22 months younger, has stated she wants to start learning the flute. We have had my daughter using my old flute. We figured if we were going to soon have two children playing the flute (I promise I'm not persuading them) it was time to buy my oldest her own flute. Let's just say our bank account is feeling a little tight right now and she had better keep up with the flute for awhile.

Lately she has been helping us feel like this expense was worth it as she has practiced a lot. I love it!  We have also done some Christmas piano/flute duets. Now that we have two flutes I look forward to doing some flute duets.

I am so grateful I can enjoy music from my kids and that I can play music with them.

Sweet potatoes

Do you like these?

Growing up this was the last thing that would be on my list of essentials for a Thanksgiving meal. I hated them and it didn't help that they always made it with little marshmallows. I'm not a big fan of marshmallows. That all changed a few years back when we went to Thanksgiving with my husband's side of the family. His sister made the sweet potatoes different then I had ever seen before and they were delicious!  I have found I really like sweet potatoes. And they are so good for you.

Here's the way she made them:

Sweet Potato Casserole

Ingredients:
3 large sweet potatoes                                        2 eggs
3 tablespoons butter, softened                             1/4 cup milk
1 cup packed brown sugar                                   1 tablespoon grated orange zest
1 cup chopped pecans                                         3 tablespoon butter
1 cup flaked coconut (optional)                            1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/3 cup all-purpose flour                                      1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup white sugar



Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Poke holes in the sweet potatoes with a fork, arrange the sweet potatoes on a cookie sheet. Grease an 11X 7 inch glass baking dish.
2. Bake sweet potatoes for 1 hour. Let cool, then mash in a large bowl. There should be approximately    3 2/3 cups of mashed sweet potato.
3. Combine softened butter with brown sugar, nuts, coconut and flour; stir with a fork. Set aside.
4. Combine sugar, egg, milk, orange peel, butter, vanilla, salt with the mashed sweet potatoes. Beat the mixture with an electric mixer until smooth. Pour mixture into prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the brown sugar-nut mixture over the top of the mixture.
5. Bake for 35 minutes.

My kids are warming up to the idea of sweet potatoes. Here's their favorite way to eat them:

Slice thinly. Saute in a pan sprayed with PAM over medium-high heat until lightly browned. It usually takes about 5 minutes. Then sprinkle them with cinnamon sugar.



Do you have a favorite way to eat sweet potatoes?


By the way today I'm grateful to a sister -in-law and trying something new.

A bishop's wife

When my second child was 5 days old my husband was called into the bishopric. He served for five years and then the ward boundaries were rearranged and we were put into a new ward.  I was then called as the primary president and my eyes were opened to the workings of the ward leadership. I was still serving in that position when my husband was called to be the bishop. It was right after Christmas and we had six weeks until the change of bishops would happen. Let me tell you it was a long six weeks for a secret of that magnitude.

That was almost four years ago. You would think after having a husband serve in a bishopric I would be prepared, but it wasn't the easiest thing for me and I fear I wasn't always the most supportive wife. I have learned a few things over the years that have helped a lot as I fulfill the role of bishop's wife.

I must admit that at first I resented the time that my husband was gone. I was stuck at home with young children and at times it was pretty frustrating. As I look back, I fear when my husband came home, I often  tried to act in such a way that my husband would know how hard things had been. My thoughts truly weren't focused on him and how things were for him. I didn't help him out by making sure things seemed okay on the home front so he could serve without worrying about us. In fact I wanted him to worry about us.

A couple of years ago we had some new neighbors move in. The father of the family is often gone for weeks at a time for work. In fact, they moved  in while he was gone.  What impressed me most was the wife's attitude. Even though this was hard, I constantly heard her make comments on how she just felt sorry for her husband and that he had to miss so much. Still to this day, on the day he comes home from these extended trips, I often hear her express ways she is trying to welcome him home. What she could do for him-cook his favorite, wash his car, etc.

This changed me. My husband was gone for hours at a time, not weeks. I realized that we are currently blessed that my husband doesn't have to travel a lot. That would make his service as a bishop quite difficult. I have tried to be more patient and aware of how things have been for him when he is gone. Try to focus more on what I can do for him. I still have my moments where I complain but later, not when he first comes home.

I have also had my eyes opened to how valuable a bishop is to the Plan of Salvation. I often don't get to see whom he meets with and what my husband does. I just see the time he is away serving and helping the members of my ward. (which is how it should be). I am ashamed to admit at first there was times when I would think to myself, "If these people would just do what is right they wouldn't monopolize my husband's time and he could be home more".  Through the comments of a dear relief society teacher and the quiet whisperings of the spirit I have come to realize that a bishop truly is called to do a life saving work. He is helping people in ways oftentimes only the Lord is aware of. No body is perfect and a bishop is one step that some need to truly repent and receive the happiness the Lord wants for all of us. Personally realizing this has changed me. Sure I'm used to things now, but the time he is gone doesn't bother me any more for I know he's doing what truly is important in the eternal welfare of others.

I have also seen the value of a Stake president. There are times that I have sensed that whatever my husband is working with others on has been draining and ever present in his mind. These are times I try to show an extra amount of love. I have seen a visible change, though, when he comes home from meetings with the Stake President. Just having the ability to draw on his help, advice or just someone he can talk to in private is a necessity for a bishop to keep going. I will be forever grateful for our Stake President's time and to his family as they support him.

I guess the point of my ramblings and thoughts this month is a gratitude to dear members of our stake who have helped me learn some lessons. They have helped me be a better bishop's wife and then hopefully in turn my husband is better able to serve in this calling that truly is part of our Heavenly Father's plan.

The love of my life

I wish I had more time for this post.  This morning we enjoyed a celebratory breakfast of crepes. I have chicken enchiladas and chocolate cake to make. And let's not forget the presents. Oh and there's making sure he can watch the BYU game live. It just wouldn't be right for him to have to watch "his team" later, through the use of DVR, on his birthday.  That's right he's another year older. I don't know that it would matter if I had more time, though, for words aren't able to express how I feel about this man. Today I'm grateful for my husband. I truly couldn't imagine life without him. I am also grateful to a mother-in-law who gave him life and raised him. I'll be forever in her debt.

My home

The other day I drove a friend of my daughter's home. Let's just say she lived in a nice home in a nice looking neighborhood. I found myself focusing on all the things I would love different about my home and where I live. I needed to change my focus and be grateful for what I have. I need to strife to enjoy and just be happy with here and now. Here's what I have realized I like about where I live. 

Living on a non-through street.

Having very patient neighbors and not a lot of restrictive covenants. It allows us a place (on the street) to park the big beast (the trailer) until we decided where to put it permanently.

Getting to drive by these everyday as I take my kids to school.

And then not having to drive to far. In fact it's within a short bike ride or a good walking distance to see these.

Living close to 

And

The day to day memories we get to have with them are priceless.

Having adequate rooms for all of us. While things seem a little tight it's a whole lot better than what my husband or I grew up in. We each came from 3 bedroom homes with one bathroom. We should feel spoiled with three bathrooms, a fact we remind the girls of often.



And at the risk of bragging, but we have done a lot of work so I figured I should enjoy it, the remodeling we have done.

You

I love that at this time of year we have a holiday to remind us to take time and be grateful. I have seen how a lot of people attempt to do this by blogging everyday in the month of November. I have thought this is a great idea but have realized for me, at this stage of life, that just isn't possible. My kids would be neglected too much. So..... I thought this year I would attempt one week. In this week before Thanksgiving I hope to try and express what has been my thoughts this month in regards to being thankful.

I would like to start this off with thanks going out to you--My family and friends who take time to read this blog.

As I sat down to write this post I saw that I have over 100 posts.  Over the course of the past year and those posts, I have really found that I enjoy blogging. It gives me a chance to do something creative while keeping a record of family events and everyday details that otherwise might be forgotten.  Even though I enjoy blogging I could easily do this on something that is just private. I have realized, though, that knowing someone is going to read this and will notice if I don't post is what keeps myself blogging. Without you I know this would turn into one more thing, like scrap booking, that I just never quite make time for. I would then have good intentions but no actual recording of life.

Each time I post something, though, I get nervous. Is it just the same old stuff? Am I being to personal? Do I put too much about my kids so I sound like I'm bragging? It is so nice to post and have someone take time to comment. It's kind of a validation that what I wrote was interesting for someone. I also truly love the ablility to keep in touch with you through your comments and your own blogs.

So.... today I am very grateful for YOU. Grateful for the time you spend in reading. Grateful that we have this way to keep in touch and share thoughts, everyday events and give support to each other.

Gingerbread Festival

This week I turned the car radio to one of the stations that plays Christmas music all the time. (They actually started the day after Halloween- I'm not ready for Christmas music that early). While I can't stand listening to Christmas music all the time I quite enjoyed it on my drive home. Christmas music is the thing that gets me in the Holiday spirit.

At our house we celebrate Thanksgiving. We have specific Thanksgiving activities and lessons and we put up Thanksgiving decorations. I don't mind, though, seeing evidence of Christmas early. It just reminds me of the Holidays and the traditions we love. For me, Thanksgiving is part of the Holidays. 

One of our traditions is to attend the Gingerbread Festival.  It is another thing that brings the Holiday spirit. Here's some of our "favorites" this year captured by my kids at the camera (I think they take more pictures than I do. I don't know what we'll do if they ever get their own cameras).

A Smurf's house

Pinkalicious

Up, Up and Away

This is what I thought motherhood would be

Yesterday I had my little ones help me make granola, which incidentally is my son's current favorite. We also made some bread dough. While it was rising, I sent the kids out to play in the leaves. As I was cleaning up from our adventures in the kitchen, I glanced out the window and had to pause to watch. 

It was a perfect Fall day, just cool enough to need a jacket. The warm sun took the rest of the chill off. My kids piled leaves onto the slide and cried with joy as they slid through them. They then raked them into a pile and jumped into the soft landing. They were truly enjoying this moment. 

I couldn't help think these are the moments I dreamed of when I thought of being a mother. Working hard to meet their needs and desires all seemed worth it when I got to watch them just truly enjoying child hood.

As I grabbed my shoes to go help them bury each other in leaves, I was grateful....

Grateful that I get to be a mother!

Surprise, Surprise! As I downloaded pictures from our camera today I found 70 pictures they had taken of yesterday's adventure.  Here's just a glimpse of what I got to silently watch.

If you want to trick or treat at our house

You might have to fight this ferocious dinosaur

But don't worry I'm sure this fairy will help you

 (that is if she can quit posing and find her wand).

You had better make sure you bring a mirror (or I'm sure an iPhone will work).
We like you but not enough to have you as stone lawn ornament.

If you make it past......

These two will be glad to give you a treat.

 HAPPY HALLOWEEN!

Five in a row

Yesterday we woke up to SNOW!

I figured it was a good time to do a shoe inventory. As I went through my son's box, I was surprised by his sandal collection.

And I thought girls were supposed to have lots of shoes.

She'll kick your...........

Jolly J is constantly getting comments about the height of her kicks.

She decided to prove it at her last belt test. 

We officially have a Blue belt!

Color

I love this time of year! 

It truly is beautiful and I am in awe 

at what can be found right in my own back yard

The cooler weather just seems to beckon us outside. We recently have spent some time exploring areas close to home. As they say a picture is worth a thousand words.......

Battle Creek Falls

Stewart Falls

(This two sure were troopers on our 3 mile hike.)

(not so little anymore)

Funnies

I couldn't help but change the date format for this post (I hope you noticed).

One of my favorite things to do on Sunday, when I younger, was to read the Comics in the Sunday paper  So. . . . . 

In honor of this day, I present 10  Sunday Funnies from our family

After dinner Minnie let out a large burp. Bud Boy responds with,  "Ha, Ha, I do that too!"




A child comes to her mom in tears, "My nose is stuck." (Looks like you have a cold)



One evening dad was helping with brushing teeth. He asked our four year old at the time to open her eyes and come to him. She responded with, "I can't open my eyes, I'm watching a commercial on them."




One day while traveling the girls starting asking questions about last names when they get married. To help them understand how it is traditionally done we gave them examples- if you marry someone with Smith it would be your first name with the last name of Smith. After awhile Minnie responded with, "so if I get married it would be Minnie with a prince."



"Mom, I just farted in my mouth!"  That would be a burp, sweety. 



One year in primary they were learning the song "I'll Seek the Lord Early". Each night we sing a song to our children before they fall asleep.After we finished singing this song our three year old asked, "where's the BIU (her way of saying BYU) part? We didn't understand so she sang very frustratedly, You know...... I'll seek the Lord early in B-I-U and he will show me all the truth. (the actual words are: I'll seek the Lord early while in my youth.)



It was a hot summer day, from the back seat a toddler girl explains, "I'm melting". The parents turn around to see beads of sweat on her arm and face.



While talking with Dad as he got ready for church our three year old asked, "are you going to have testimonies and frosting"  (I'm all in favor of frosting instead of fasting!)



One day I heard a very angry three year old yell, "Look at me!  Do I look good?  NO!"



A five year old girl came to her mom and asked her if she could draw a star. She drew a basic star and got this response, "Can you do a bigger one?" so mom drew the same thing only bigger. The response was, "Could you draw any better when you were a kid?"

Dust is a Flying

While I am typing this (I started this yesterday, but kept getting pulled away) my husband is fixing our sink.

This week has been challenging and frustrating to say the least. I was quite annoyed that the company that installed our sink didn't call us back or answer our phone calls. This then turned into anger as the days added up. We then learned that they had gone out of business. What could I do?  I have tried to have patience as my husband researched and found time to fix this (thank goodness he is capable and we didn't have to pay someone else). I have also felt upset and maybe a little embarrassed for lack of a better word that we had made a "bad" decision.

We have "trials", though, so we can learn and grow, right? Here's what I have learned.

First off an appreciation for running water in the kitchen. It is amazing how many times a day you use the kitchen sink and I'm not just talking washing dishes. There's washing hands, rinsing food, wiping down counter tops, draining noodles. Making trips to the bathroom sink to do all these things is truly a pain.

During these many trips I have had plenty of time to think and I have come to realize we didn't make a bad decision. We made a good decision! We researched and researched. We got multiple quotes and we made a good decision on the style of countertops/sink we wanted and who to put it in. Circumstances out of our control and knowledge happened. We had chosen someone whom we trusted to do a good job and in a way that is correct. 

When we found out they had gone out of business, I made a judgement call based on my current situation. I assumed they went out of business for they did shotty work. I then felt to ask how could we have gone wrong? I truly have no idea why they went out of business (in this day and economy it can be difficult for any company).They actually were really good to work with and did fantstic granite work. An oversite on the sink installation was the only problem.

So.. what have I learned? Once again how easy it is to pass judgement. How often in life does this happen? Often we see others in unfortunate circumstances and assume they brought it on themselves. They made a bad decision. Often times they made the right decision, just circumstances and the agency of others caused an unfortunate result.

Asking about how an undermount sink is installed is something we had never thought to ask (We had never even heard of this problem) We sure will now! If any of you ever get the remodeling bug you can learn from us.

Basically there are two current ways of installation. One involves anchoring wood into the cabinet and gluing (it's acutally called bond-o) to the sink. This is actually a very common way and the way our sink was done. It probably would have been just fine if they hadn't messed up the original installation. The other way is to create a frame work for the sink to sit in that is anchored into the cabinets and locked in tight with the countertops. It's a little more secure for the whole bottom of the sink is sitting in something. There is no way for it to fall. If we had known we would have requested this way of installation.

Just to set the record straight, would I do granite and an undermount sink again over solid surface? Yes! The reasons we went this directions still are there despite this unfortunate mishap.

Is our sink secure now? Let's just say my husband basically put all his weight on it and it held just fine. I don't think dishes and water will ever top that weight.

Check it out

Powdered Eggs

I have bought a can of these and had it it my food storage for some time. I figured if I had to live off my food storage only it would be hard pressed to bake without eggs. The can has just sat there, though, and every few years I would replace it with a fresh one and throw the old one out.

Recently I read a blog post about using powdered eggs. Here's  the link if you want to see it for yourselves. I was motivated to quit throwing out money and give powdered eggs a try.

A few weeks ago I wanted to make zucchini muffins. I was out of eggs so...... we opened that can. And.......there was no difference in taste. Since then I have made other muffins and even tried cookies. They have all turned out the same as always.

I don't know if I'll ever be brave enough to eat these straight or use them in french toast, pancakes or crepes. Maybe if I have to live off my food storage.

For baking, though, I am sold!
It's a great way to rotate them and not having to buy so many fresh eggs is a bonus.






Side note: While we are on the subject of food storage, for any of you that remember this post on powdered milk. We have since started mixing it with 2 percent milk and don't notice any difference. A little healthier!

The Plan

I have the privilege of working with three newly called activity day leaders. I truly do mean privilege for I love their enthusiasm. It rubs off on me and am I more motivated; plus as they come to understand their calling I cherish the new ideas.

Here's our calendar for the next few months

October

• Hike amongst the leaves to Battle Creek Falls

• Learning and Living the Gospel-The sacrament. We are taking a lot of our ideas from here

November

• Jewelry. A member of our primary presidency makes bracelet using paper beads. She rolls strips of paper (any type-scrapbook, newspaper, magazine) and then dips them in mod podge.

• Good Nutrition. We discussed eating a balanced diet and what portions are. We had a bunch of pictures of food. We had the girls plan meals and snack for the one day using the pictures. We then went over each girls food and shared what was good and what maybe the should do differently. After ward we made smoothies. My partner even put spinach in to show the girls how we can sneak in vegetable. Since it is close to Thanksgiving we also made turkey apples (The apple is the body.  Put gumdrops, colored marshmallows and raisins on toothpicks to make the feathers. A large marshmallow is used for the head).

December  

• Scrapbook pictures from our hike and binder covers. (We give the new girls a binder when they turn eight. We have left the cover blank so they can scrapbook a page and make it their own).

• Learning and Living the Gospel-Happy Birthday Joseph Smith!     Joseph's birthday is December 23. We are going to help the girls make a family home evening lessons-taking ideas from here. We will then have cake to celebrate Joseph Smith's birthday.

January

The first activity of the new year we traditionally have some time to get activity ideas from the girls. We want them to feel involved in the planning so they will want to come. Afterward we have games (each girl brings one) and lots of party treats.

Evacuation

Last week, all over the news, was coverage of fires in Herriman which caused evacuation of many homes.

On the other side of our town there was also an evacuation of homes for a few hours. There is road construction going on and the workers hit a major natural gas line.

Yesterday there was also a section of town that was evacuated in the middle of the night for a burst major water line.

I not sure why but I had never really thought of needing to use our 72hour kits for situation likes these. I guess in my mind I figured it would be a situation on a much larger scale. You know something that made everything/everywhere around us stop; not just a portion of the city(to many sci-fi/end of the world movies for me I guess).

I had never really thought that we might need to use our kits in situations where we still had to function in everyday life. Situations like my husband would still have to go to work since he works in a city that is not right close to home.

We recently rotated and changed our food so it was more likely something we would want to eat. I figure having foods the kids look forward to eating will help keep them calm in a stressful situation.

This past week I have been going through making sure our kits also included things to allow us to still feel comfortable in everyday life.

My friend had a link to a grab and go list. Truly an excellent idea! I had a little trouble printing this and figured I would like to personalize mine more (since I don't have a pet or a baby). I also found some of the items I have in our 72 hour kits so we wouldn't need to grab them .

Here's our families' list that I am now sticking a copy in my kit, in my file folder about emergency preparedness and taped in my garage. I figured I would have it in multiple places so I know I can find one when were in a rush.

Emergency Evacuation Grab and Go List
(Need to leave within 5 minutes)

• Wallet or purse
• Car/house keys
• Cell phones and chargers
• 72 hour kits
• Adequate shoes for weather
• Coat or jacket
• Lap top
• Important documents (should be in one container)
• Contacts/glasses
• Prescriptions

(If have more time then grab)

• Back-up drive
• Fire proof safe
• Camp stove
• Blankets
• Tent
• Pillows
• Towels
• Case of bottled water
• Extra batteries
• Memory items-Scrapbooks, wedding book, kids books, family videos

We currently keep first aid kits in all our cars so I didn't put this on the lists. I did go through them this week to make sure they were still stocked. I think I will try to do this twice a year when we rotate the food in our 72 hour kits. Awhile back I made a car emergency kit. We also keep blankets and an umbrella in the main family car. It wouldn't hurt to make sure these are still in the car twice a year.

As I read over the suggested list I realized there was also some things we could do to make some of the items easier to grab. Here's my goal for the next few weeks to organize:

• Put batteries that are scattered in the drawer into a tote.
• Copy important documents and put in an accordion folder. We have them in a fireproof safe but this is pretty big to grab. Having an extra copy wouldn't hurt.
• Put my family videos into one tote

I hope we never have to use this but being prepared brings peace.

Is This A Trial?

I don't know but it is sure an inconvenience. Our kitchen sink has fallen twice! The first time it happened is just fell on the back side. We were able to prop it up and soon they came to repair it. It turns out they had just forgotten to secure one side-Oops!

Today I came in from mowing the lawn to discover the whole sink had dropped out. It had been full of water soaking some dishes. I'm not sure what the deal is now but the way they are securing it is truly not working. Things of course always happen after hours so I am back to trying to use minimal dishes until probably Monday.

I have loved the granite and under mount stainless steel sink, but this is started to make me wish we had gone with solid surface. On the bright side I am so grateful we put in tile and not hard wood with all the water we have had spilling out lately.

Thanks goodness tomorrow is fast Sunday for us so dish usage will be less. Plus, we traditionally go to Grandparents for Sunday dinner. I'm just bumped for I was planning on making cookies tonight.

Focus

If you ask my kids common things they hear from me I'm sure one would be, "Focus". Specifically reminding them to focus on the task they are currently doing.

My focus is often swayed by the time of year and my kids activities. This blog truly seems to reflect that. At times it alive with posts and other times it silently sits, waiting until I decide I can return. It's not that I don't have lots of ideas to write about, just a matter of when I feel like I can focus here.

Here's a little of where our focus has been lately.

Family History

Karebear had to fill out a seven generation pedigree chart for her Honors English class. Along with this she had to do a paper on one of our first relatives to come to America. It's good thing our extended family has done a lot of family history work.

Greek Mythology

Jolly J just finished studying the Greek goddess Demeter.

We made a poster and she had a presentation in class.

(I guess blurry is what you sometimes get when kids take the camera to school)

Soccer

Minnie has enjoyed her first season of soccer. Having two playing this year has really kept us hopping between games and practices.

Bubble Gum

Tator learned how to blow a bubble!

Our Garden

Specifically canning and drying. 

 Mom's biggest helpers

  We have dried peaches and pears. 

We canned spaghetti sauce, pickles and 

I even attempted salsa for the first time.

Dishes 

Canning really makes them pile up. A big kudos to my husband who is ever willing to pinch hit whenever and wherever and keeps the never ending dish pile clean.

State Fair

I love it when the weekend rolls around! While it's often still busy, it's a different kind of busy. A welcome break from the monotomy of the week.

Last weekend we visited the state fair. I couldn't help snap a picture of this three year old steer. It's not every day you get to see one this big, let one touch one.

Contrast that with this 1 week old calf which was much more to Bud Boy's liking. 

This piglet just made me smile. How many times have my own kids fallen asleep while eating.













I hope you have something fun to focus on this weekend!