Feb 28 2007

Hey there. Didn't take the sleepy - and now I remember why I take them. 2 nights of poor sleep and I"m hurting pretty good. Strange joint pain - at least it helps me remember how bad it can get and that I really do need the nightly Tylenol PM if not the Ambien. I try to only take the Ambien once every week or two. Tylenol PM is nightly - except for I didn't take it last night. No good reason - just too lazy after I laid down to get up and get it. Taylor did sleep a lot better - so that helped. Have to thank Jacob for calling and telling me about an ad he had heard for a product that they claim can help with fibro. It's always nice to know that people are looking out for you!

This morning I took a nap for a couple of hours - well sort of a nap. The girls were hammering and playing in the room with me - I kept telling Hinks to whisper - I don't think she's accustomed to using a quiet voice :) It did help some - every little bit helps - plus I had a nice hot bath that helped soothe my joints - 10-15 minutes and I feel a lot better. I'm not driving anywhere today - until I go to the school this evening for Kimball's parent-teacher conference and to help with the book sale. My mind just scares me a bit when I'm not rested as I should be.

Question today: Where did you live as a child? (City, County, Suburb)
I'm not going to answer that online as it is just too personal.

I've got to put a fun link on - I've got most of these templates saved and printed out, they are super fun: http://www.ruthannzaroff.com/mirkwooddesigns/templates.htm
My mind can't remember or figure out how to make these transparent - but I'm sure you Photoshop afficionado's can do it. A project I'm almost done with is making the take-out boxes (8X8 - which is still really small) and then putting conversation starters or questions in it for a date-night. Saw the idea in an ad - http://www.youngexplorers.com/itemdy00.asp?T1=Y512652
We got a catalog - and I like to scour them for great ideas of things I think I could make or do (and save some $ also). Another one I hope to do - maybe over spring break is:
http://www.youngexplorers.com/itemdy00.asp?T1=Y610048

In talking with some friends, I think it's a universal need (for women at least) to have something to look forward to - these projects provide that for me.

Have a great day!

Here it is for you, Reg. We also looked up pictures of thumbsucking and what your teeth will look like if you keep doing it. Crazy adult thumbsucking sites out there!

http://www.med.umich.edu/1libr/pa/pa_thumbsuc_hhg.htm

It was a really rough night. Taylor can't breathe through her nose - and stirs and fusses all night long - so we put her in our room - so she doesn't wake Hinks - and I'm awake all night. So tired! I'm taking a sleepy tonight and I'm going to find some other cold meds to help her tonight.

Question: Describe a typical day during your High School years.

Let see what I can remember....Classes - changing rooms, going by the locker for different books. Lunch - probably in a favorite teacher's room - then a stop at the library. More classes, usually aerobics in the afternoon. I think that's about it - maybe an afterschool activity - but not all the time.

Here's an odd tidbit for you - on some History Channel show they talked about various weapons - and someone is experimenting with scent - really bad smells as a way to disperse a crowd. Aparently scents are not universally bad. Rotten fish smells good in Asia and in Africa - cinnamon is not a commonly used spice - and it smells dangerous to most Africans. Interesting, eh? Well, I'm off to hopefully take a nap!

Make it a good day!

Feb 26b 2007

Yes, I really do like Johnny Carino's - just don't get there too often. The Chicken Marsala was really good as I remember - of course I like any chicken/pasta combination. The cheesecake was good too!

Basil Syrup -
http://food.realsimple.com/realsimple/recipefinder.dyn?action=displayRecipe&recipe_id=1213226

I just followed the directions on how to make the syrup - then thought - I could bottle this up to use year round! So I poured the hot syrup in jars (straining out the basil) and waterbathed it (I think) for 20 minutes. Not sure on the end part - just bottle up as you would jam. A jar goes a long way because the basil makes it really potent. I had gotten the magazine about the time I had a huge crop of basil - and thought - this is fate! A way to use up the basil. If you add it to warm lemonade - you get a Theraflu type drink - I really like it when I'm feeling sick. Added to my orange-juice/lemonade it makes a great cool quencher - plus if you're using Crystal Light - that is sugar free, the orange juice has only natural sugar, and you use just a bit of the basil syrup (it has sugar) - you have something that I think is pretty healthy!

Sidenote - I also tried making peppermint syrup but that is a lot less potent. Again - a huge crop of peppermint. Easiest way is just to buy little herb starts and plant them in your garden. Both peppermint and basil re-seed themselves and couldn't be easier to do! Just about the time I start panicking thinking the basil won't come up - it does. Then in August/September you have enough to really do something with. You could probably buy some in the produce section of the store to give it a try, too!

So enough about that! Today we peeled the crayon bits (broken ones) and made monster crayons. I followed the directions I found here:

http://www.onelittlemonkey.com/blog/2006/07/27/crafty-crazy-colorful-chunky-crayons/

We seem to have plenty of broken crayons around. I'm really excited that the people at Baby Trend are sending me a new vapor barrier for my thrashed diaper champ! This has been the best diaper pail we have had! I'm ready to move it on, though - so instead of just throwing it away, I emailed them and they responded and are mailing it to me - so I can make it like new! There was no charge mentioned, either! I've already found a good home - my sis-in-law Tina has no diaper pail and just has been putting them in the garage or wherever - her girl is 1 and I know they want another baby soon! So, good deal all around!

Also, I had put my water dispenser catch plate (the removable one at the bottom in the fridge door) in the dishwasher and now it doesn't fit at all - so I called a place and found that I can get a new one for $3.50! That's going to be a lot of stress relieved for that small amount!

As if these adventures weren't enough - my little Mckay is working on stopping the thumbsucking! Well, it used to be her thumb - then we used the yucky stuff and now it's her pinkie. She's almost gone a week - with no significant sucking. I found a great web site that gave some real helpful tips! Let me know if you need it....
The biggest thing was that it had to be her idea - so we talked about it and she decided she really did want to stop. They also talked about keeping her hands busy - so we've had really busy hands here - with coloring, play doh and many other things. What was I saving those things for anyway? We have a chart that we put a star on each day (even if I've caught that pinkie sneaking in a couple of times) and when it's filled (the 20th of March) she gets to go with me to Toys R Us for a special shopping trip - she's still deciding what she wants to get. That's her big news!

Little TayTay is probably about ready for potty training - she will go when sitting on the toilet and can hold it for short periods - she'll go from dry to really wet diaper in just a matter of minutes. It's just too much for me right now - so hopefully that will be the spring break project - maybe we'll even get Kimball to be in charge of it! There are perks to having older children!

Hinks is hinks - and along with everyone else has a cold. Taylor is hit the hardest today - sleeping in my recliner as I type. I imagine it will be a very snuggly week.

OK - if you've read this far - here's today's question: What lessons would you like to take?

I plan on learning to play the guitar I bought for myself before I was even expecting Mckay. Don't know when - but sometime! I also plan on learning Spanish. DJ and I have discussed that we (he and me) will take a trip to his old mission grounds after I learn - so I really have some incentive. I just have to do it!

well, I feel better for having shared all that! I hope your day is great!

Feb 26 2007

Some fun stuff :

Got tagged - thanks Reg! I'm looking around.....

Rules of the Game:
1. Find the nearest book to you.
2. Name the book and author.
3. Turn to page 123.
4. Go to the fifth sentence on the page.
5. Copy out the next 3 sentences and post to your blog.
6. Tag three other people.

Funny thing - the book nearest me is No Place Like Home by Mary Higgins Clark. And yes, I stayed up late last week because I started it in the evening and couldn't put it down. Then I was scarred - so I had to watch some Oprah - the small spaces episode....Anyway enough detail. Just had to explain it was funny because I never read books like this anymore - excpet a friend had passed it onto me - and for some unexplaned reason I actually read it and haven't passed it on yet. I try to avoid scarry things...
p. 123, 5th sentence: It shouldn't have taken a phone call from me to Mrs. Carroll in San Diego to find that out." Ortiz responded, his tone defensive: "I looked into that. Rick Kling, with the Mendham police, was assigned to check out the paint stores there. The kid on duty at Tannon Hardware was new and didn't know anything about checking records on paint sales.

So, Jules, Cory, and Kari - you're it!

Also had to do this that Ola had....
1. What time is it? Sunday 5:43pm
2. Name: Shersy
3. What are you most afraid of? Snakes and Spiders
4. What do you drive? Chevy Suburban
5. Have you ever seen a ghost? Not that I'd admit
6. Where were you born? Provo, Ut
7. Ever been to Alaska? No
8. Ever been toilet paper decorating in trees? Yes
9. Croutons or Bacon bits? Both
10. Favorite day of the week? Friday - provided I go out on a date!
11. Favorite restaurant? Johnny Carino's
12. Favorite Flowers? Red Roses and white lilies
13. Favorite sport to watch: Ice Skating
14. Favorite drink? My newest concoction: 1/2 can orange juice, 2 crystal lite pods, and 3 Tbsp. of basil syrup with enought water to make the entire volume 1 gallon.
15. Favorite Ice cream: Strawberry Cheesecake
16. Disney or Warner Brothers: Disney
17. Favorite fast food Restaurant: Schlotsky's Deli
18. What color is your bedroom carpet? my little rug is burgandy - wood floors you know...
19. How many times you failed your driver's test? None
20. Before this one, from whom did you get your last e-mail from?LDS Activity Days
21. What do you do most often when you are bored?Clean, blog, sometimes take a nap or read
22. Bedtime: in bed at 9 - asleep at 10.30 - I have to watch the TIVO programs sometime!
23. Favorite TV shows: The Apprentice, Oprah, Modern Marvels
24. Ford or Chevy? Chevy since I have a suburban. I really don't have a preference
25. What are you listening to right now? Fantasia
26. What are your favorite colors? Blue, Burgandy, White, and Brown - the colors of my room.
27. How many tattoos do you have? None
28. Do you have any pets? No
29. Which came first the chicken or the egg? The chicken - think of the garden of Eden
30. What would you like to accomplish before you leave this earth? I'd love to have my pictures organized and scrapbooked - but since the earth is going to burn anyway - maybe just my calling and election made sure? Realistically - my girls raised to be mothers.

Well, thanks gals for putting these fun things on for us to respond to!

Feb 25 2007

So it's Sunday - but I'm home with Taylor and Hinks. They both have a bit of a cold. I would usually take them anyway - but a gal in our ward was over visiting the other day, bemoaning how her girl (only child) keeps getting sick - she is in Taylor's nursery class. In her defense - her daughter had RSV when she was 6 months or so, and had to be hospitalized - but she is almost 2 now! She told me about the Nursery Leader telling her a story of one girl who definately should have been kept home - and I recognized my own kid in the story. So - now I guess I will be extra cautious. I think that once you have more than one child - you realize how impossible it is to keep them healthy 100% of the time - and that it's not too big a deal if they get a cold. I don't want to send them if they're contagious - but if I've given them cold medicine - and their symptoms are under control....isn't it OK? What do you all think?

The Sunday they were referring to - Taylor had been a bit warm but was acting normal - so I wasn't worried - no other symptoms - I thought maybe it was a tooth. We took her and had normal fussy Sacrament Meeting - but she was so excited to go to nursery - so we took her. I guess she crashed on the leader's lap and sweated him up good - falling asleep - so her brought her to us. Of course, as soon as she was back with us, she woke up, and started running around - and cooled down! I don't remember if I took her to RS or DJ took her with him. Anyway - it wasn't very fun hearing that experience used as an example of when a kid should be kept home.

So, they are sleeping because it's their nap time. Taylor should be tired because she woke us several times in the night when she couldn't breathe through her nose :( And I'm online.....trying to feel the spirit of the Sabbath! I'm hoping to do just a big of Family History today.

Question for today: Tell about a favorite vacation from your childhood.

I remember several vacations as a child - Probably the most memorable was the Oregon Coast trip - maybe it was because I was a bit older, I'm not sure. The entire extended family met up on the Oregon Coast for a few days of rain. It was cool, but not cold as I recall. I loved swimming in the ocean. I even came across a video of a talent show or something we did while there. Camping for most everyone - with Grandparents in the motorhome. That was a fun time! I remember especially enjoying the showers!

Feb 24 2007

Kimball did so great- got Best of Show with her partner for the primary grades. We're so excited for her - as she will continue on to State! The picture is of her with her partner and teacher - showing her what they got! They were the only ones from her school to win anything!

We are going to relax the rest of today - it's been a really busy couple of days!

Question for today: Did you receive your education somewhere other than a school?

I've talked about my education. I think it's important to continue learning - through reading books, attending classes, just having an attitude of wanting to know more in general. I love the history channel! I saw an episode of Modern Marvels about the TVA (Tennesse Valley Authority). I knew nothing about Tennesse before watching this - and now I know so much more - and about the new deal programs that the federal government used to combat the depression. I didn't know that I didn't know ....you know? Anyway - I think it's always good to be looking for opportunities to learn - especially outside of school!

Feb 23 2007

Good morning! I got up a bit better this morning than the rest of this week - so I'm off to a good start! I watched an old movie yesterday that inspired a scrapbook page this morning - here it is:

In the movie - Jimmy Stewart's character sees a 6 foot 3 inch white rabbit that is his friend - Harvey! His sister is committing him to a mental institution and this quote is part of the conversation he has with the Psychologist - who asks him if he doesn't have any indignation upon finding out that he's to be committed - in case it doesn't get bigger the quote is: Long ago my mother used to say to me "In this world, Elwood, you must be oh, so smart or oh, so pleasant." Well for years I was smart. I recommend pleasant.

Anyway - it seemed like a great thing to put on a page. The picture from yesterday is from 1995 :)

Question for today: What lessons did you take as a child that have carried over in your adult life?

That is really easy - Piano especially! I think it's a dying art - I go in and play voluntarily (not called) for Young Women's each week because none of the Young Women or Leaders play. I have told Kimball that she will be taking over for me when she turns 12. Our ward organist also plays for Primary and Spanish Branch Sacrament just after Primary. There just aren't many people who play.....so DJ and I plan to have all our girls learn to play. It is something that will help them in school, allow them to serve in special ways in church, and add to their lives in countless ways. When I'm in need of some emotional release - I can sit down and play and play! That has been a real gift.

Today I'm checking to see if I can get a replacement foam odor barrier for my diaper champ. I'm planning on getting rid of it - we're getting closer and closer to being done with diapers! However, I don't just want to throw it away - the barrier is pretty trashed after so many years of not only holding diapers - but also general bathroom trash. It has been one of the best "baby" items that we've had - as far as durability and usefulness! Well, I better close this - I have to go wash the diaper champ....

Feb 22 2007

Another busy day - Visiting Teachers were by - and before that the girls and I played and sorted our games. I decided to get rid of the packaging - so I have the gameboards (and pieces in a baggie) all in the new Costco detergent squarish container. Last time they had those - instead of the usual buckets. I try to use all those type containers in a different way. Anyway - now we can get to the games much more easily - and we may even end up playing a scrambled game!

Question: Do you like to go to the theater? The opera? The symphony? Which do you like the best? Which productions did you like best and why?

This takes me back just a few years - to the first opera I attended in Logan! My MIL Kaye, her sister, mom, and a couple of DJ's cousins made their yearly trip and I got invited along! It was so neat - I remember the first one I saw was The Desert Song. That is probably my favorite because it was the first. I've gone just about every year since - but last year was reminded of the changes in my physical self - because the chairs were so uncomfortable to me. I sat next to Dona - DJ's aforementioned grandma. We were doing synchronized squggling. I still am not sure how I feel about empathizing with an 80 year old about physical challenges - but that's just how it is now - so the ones I like the best are probably the ones with the most comfortable chairs - that or I'll just have to take a cushion :)

I keep trying to talk DJ into taking me to a Shakespeare under the stars or something like that.....I enjoyed hearing him play in the symphony while at Ricks. Lots of fun memories - I can think of the perfect picture to put on with this - let's see if I can find it....ah yes - here it is! This is after one of DJ's performances - don't we look young? He doesn't even have any grey in his hair!

Enjoy the simple pleasures!

Feb 21 2007B

Just had an interesting thought as I was reading everyone's blog for today. I thought - what if Heavenly Father had a daily blog - what would he say in it? What would we comment. Just got me thinking....He doesn't have to be as far away as he might seem....

Feb 21 2007

Question for today: Did you have a childhood hide-out? Where? Describe it.

I've already described my "castle" - so beyond that - I liked to hang out in my bunk-bed and read for hours on end. When I was younger we loved taking quilts and stretching them over furniture to make a fort or hide-out. That was a lot of fun. That's about all I can think of in the way of hide-outs.

On another note- DJ's maternal grandma was here while Kaye was recovering in late December. I tried to get them to do a personal history interview. They did about 1 1/2 hours - but didn't have the videocamera rolling. Dona was discouraged about having to do it again - so she said she had a lot of it written out that she'd send to Kaye so she could type it up while she continued to recover. About a week later, we heard back that she wasn't going to get everything sent - but she realized the value of doing an interview and said next time she comes (next month I think) that I could sit down with her and Kaye (me being the technical know-how) and she'd do it. These personal histories are important things. None of us know how long we're here, and when we're gone we will only continue on Earth in the memories others have of us. You don't have to do everything - just do something!

Feb 20 2007

It's a short one today - too much to do to be on long.

Question: What was your most (really!!) embarrassing moment?

I have so many, so I'll put my most recent. It was new Years Eve, I think (last year - 2005) and we were at my sis-in-law's house. I was wearing a tie on skirt that came untied and landed around my ankles - I missed much of the possible exposure because I was in a doorway and was able to quickly back through it and get my wardrobe under control. Still - it was embarassing. Another reason to wear a slip.....and maybe I should get rid of that skirt!

Feb 19 2007

Yes, it is interesting how time changes you perspective. I bet in 10 more years my fantasy will be something entirely different, as well! Kimball has been home today and we (me) are working feverishly to finish her invention - It is a game called FOOD COURT. She has a partner she has been working with and together they've come up with a really clever game. It is designed to teach children what a healthy meal consists of. In our research, we found an interesting game on the US site - just wish it had more options for the meals.....you might want to try to play it - it is fun!


http://www.fns.usda.gov/tn/Resources/mypyramidblastoff.html

We'll post pictures Saturday or Sunday - of our fun times and the invention. I've still got to get to the scrapbook store - I'm hunting a specific color green cardstock - to match what we have. I'm sure I'll find it - just not sure how many stores it will take to find it!

Question for today:
Write a want ad that describes your mother.

It makes me want to start singing the Mary Poppins Song.....If you want this choice position....

OK - here goes...
Wanted - a woman to handle 8 rascaly kids - not all at once, though. You must be a diplomat - able to mediate disagreements and generally keep everyone satisfied, if not happy. You will be required to clean house, cook 3 square meals a day, and maintain the yard until you train the kids to help out. Then you will still have to perform quality control. You will need to change emotions at will - as the kids will require you to be alternately happy, sad, excited, glad, sorry, disappointed, angry and loving. All this will be required without any thought of compensation - in fact the kids will regularly forget Mother's Day and your birthday but you will be in big trouble if you forget their birthday! All this resposibility will not be enough to keep you busy - you will still have an internal drive to do and be more - so you will work outside the home additionally for many, many years. Thank You for doing this Mom, I love you!

Feb 18 2007

A busy Sunday for us - I went VTing by myself and got done a lot faster than we otherwise do! We still have a baby blessing to go to this evening - one of the at-home variety. It will be really nice. DJ taught the Elder's Quorum lesson today too!

Question: What do you fantasize about being or doing?

Right now I'm fantasizing about quiet - peaceful moments in my house. That is a common one for me - the girls squeals and peals of laughter fill up the house most of the time. I fantasize about the day I won't be able to hear them snoring from my room - bedrooms too close together now....I do try to appreciate the times I have but I have a hard time with so much sensory stimulation!

I can't remember any other fantasy existences...

Have a great evening!

Feb 17 2007

The word jumbler strikes again! It is Pauly Shore - I don't know what I was thinking.....it's happened before and it will happen again! We spent yesterday at my friend Sarah's house- she is always so gracious to put up with us comming and enjoying the day! Today I went with Kimball to her friends house to work on their invention for a local contest. It's next weekend - and she's really excited ...more about that next weekend!

Question for today: Describe your Mother's Wedding dress. What do you know about her wedding?

I actually have my mom's wedding dress - she made it into a temple dress for me when I first went to the temple. It's a polyester-fabric - very simple style. She added a lace top overlay to dress it up a bit - and make it look more modern for me. She made the dress herself and wore it when she and my dad were married in the Salt Lake Temple. I believe her parents were there - not sure if they went into the temple or not. Grandma Jo and Grandpa Gene were there as was Becky and Bruce and maybe even Sharon. It's been too long since I saw the pictures.

We're off on a drive - The weather is beautiful - get out and enjoy it!

Feb 16 2007

Friday. Kimball is off today and Monday - so we're working on keeping her busy. Last night went great - everyone seemed to enjoy the girls singing. DJ enjoyed the food. After we got home we finished the day by filing our taxes.

Question for today: Have you met or worked with any famous people? Where, when, etc.

I had dinner with a small group of seminary students years ago with Marvin Payne as our guest. That was fun! When I spent time in California - I went to the world premier of the movie Son-in-law and saw Pauly Short in person (about 20 feet away)- he is short! That's about all I have for today.....

So get out there and get back to work!

Feb 15 2007

This day is more special to me than Valentines because 12 years ago DJ and I had our first date. We both were alone the day before - and saw the full moon....then after our first date we spent time almost every day after that together. The time has truly flown by!

Our little family is going to the church to sing some songs for the senior singles tonight. I'm a bit intimidated about this - but DJ summed it up well - they just want us to do a sharing time! That's not so bad - spiritual teaching with music. It will go - one way or another - it will go!

I'm just dragging again this morning - I've got to get going here....

Question for today: Tell about any pets you had as a child.

I remember several cats as I was growing up - we tried a dog but it was too active and ran into the highway. The most memorable cat was DC - mom says it stood for dumb cat - but I thought it was for something else.....
That cat truly had 9 lives - we had it for years - it took a trip to Pocatello riding on top of the radiator (or something under the hood). It ran up the electrical pole and got a good shock. Those are the most memorable adventures of that cat. Nowadays we have no pets - just children - which is plenty to look after for me!

Have a great day everyone!

Feb 14 2007

Somewhere I missed a day - not sure how or when - just discovered it yesterday after I had posted. OH well! Today is going OK - I got a 2 1/2 hour nap this morning while the girls watched cartoons. Just had to catch up on sleep - the last nap I took during the morning was the day that Hinckley pulled the exercise bike down on her. I couldn't hold it off any longer!

On to the Valentines.....

Here's a pic of Kimball's Valentines that we finished yesterday. DJ and I figured that it probably took about 10 minutes per valentine (times 34 valentines) You get the idea....So this is the only year I will be that crazy - I hope! I also had to make up these cute mailboxes from the HP Home and Activity Center for our valentines to go in - I am amazed that the girls haven't torn them up as I got them out yesterday for us to enjoy. There's one for each of them.

In honor of Valentines Day - I want to put some lyrics to one the Shania Twain songs that's stuck in my head -

If your not familiar with who she is or what she sounds like here's a jukebox that you can listen to clips of her songs on: http://www.shaniatwain.com/music.asp

This song isn't on the jukebox, though. Imagine a rap-like song - but not as harsh....

Ka-Ching!

We live in a greedy little world-
that teaches every little boy and girl
To earn as much as they can possibly-
then turn around and spend it foolishly
We’ve created us a credit card mess
We spend the money that we don’t possess
Our religion is to go and blow it all
So it’s shoppin’ every Sunday at the mall

All we ever want is more
A lot more than we had before
So take me to the nearest store

Chorus
Can you hear it ring
It makes you wanna sing
It’s such a beautiful thing – Ka-ching!
Lots of diamond rings
The happiness it brings
You’ll live like a king
With lots of money and things

When you’re broke go and get a loan
Take out another mortgage on your home
Consolidate so you can afford
To go and spend it all when you get bored

All we ever want is more
A lot more than we had before
So take me to the nearest store

Repeat Chorus

Let’s swing
Dig deeper in your pocket
Oh, yeah, ha
Come on I know you’ve got it
Dig deeper in your wallet
Oh

All we ever want is more
A lot more than we had before
So take me to the nearest store

Repeat Chorus

Can you hear it ring
It makes you wanna sing
You’ll live like a king
With lots of money and things
Ka-ching!

It makes me think.....I'm to the point I'm realizing that more means more time to keep up, clean, dust and maintain the things you have. Less is more for me. I'm going to put this on my list to listen to at Christmas time - I would much rather contribute more to those in need, or to a charitable cause than spend it on STUFF.

You are probably wondering what DJ got me for Valentines with all this cynical talk - I got a necklace and earings (clip-on) that will probably be worn more by my girls than myself. I just don't wear much jewelry. He also got me a card - so typical of him - A birthday card that he crossed our the birthday word on and put Valentines instead. That's just something he does and enjoys doing - I think I can hear him chuckling now.....Kimball and DJ went on a little date on Saturday and made me a ceramic heart jewely box (similar to the one Grandpa made me years ago - I've got that somewhere!). I am pleased with the thought and care that went into my Valentines gifts - and hope that they will be followed up by more time spent together. Love you DJ! Oh - and from me he got a note to get himself a hiking backpack that he's wanting to get - I don't know where or what it is - so I told him to go ahead and get it for himself!

Question for today: Tell about favorite games you played as a child.

I remember playing UNO and Rook. Those were lots of fun - we even played Snap with the Uno cards. Hi-Q - I played that for hours on end - a game with little pegs that you hop over each other in an attempt to get down to the lowest number possible. I think you took out the peg you hopped over - if that makes any sense at all. We had a game called Birthday Cake that I loved to play. I got that from my Mom a while back - she still had it. My girls loved it to death - so we set it up and got one last picture - aren't pictures great. They enable us to get rid of things we no longer need - but keep the memory! If I knew where that pic was - I'd post it today. Oh well! I remember Grandpa Gene and Grandma Jo introducing us to Rummikube. That's a game that's a lot of fun too! It seems like there's so many more games today than there used to be - I just wish we had the time and energy to enjoy the games we have more.

Little teaser for those who got clear to the end - I found something as I was sorting through memories. It's an old family letter - I'll post it on the family site for those who would be interested to see!

Feb 12 2007

I'll have to let Mckay know about John Wayne, Grandpa! We are getting ready for a busy day - but it will be fun! I got Kimball's valentines cut out last night - so we just have to assemble them. I'll post a picture - tomorrow.

Question: What is the most wonderful thing that has happened to you? The worst?

I so wish I had more time to think about this....

I think the most wonderful thing was falling in love - and getting married. That has been a source of joy and comfort in my life. It's great to have someone to share life with - the good and bad. The first thing that comes to mind with the worst are the 2 miscarriages I had. Not devastating, but difficult. Probably the source of some of the hardest emotions I've had to deal with....not going there today...But I am so glad that DJ has been there to help me and work with me through the good and bad!

Don't forget Valentines day! Give your sweetie a kiss or two!

Feb12 2007

Today has been fun - we had friends over to play this morning - and I even got my cleaning done before they came! I still haven't taken the pictures of my pile of stuff like I had planned to do last week. Thank goodness we have another week ahead- maybe I'll get it done. One of these days I hope to get some scrapbook pages done. That would be really good - I get further behind everyday!

I forgot to put the CD info - I'm a bit behind the times - I just discovered Shania Twain - Up! I really like that CD and have listened to it a few times already! If you got to her web site - www.shaniatwain.com she has a few songs you can download for free! Don't tell me how behind I am - I don't want to know......

Funny little thing- we were just watching something on PBS and Mckay saw an ad for Lawrence Welk - and she said - Look at that Fancy Show! She thought it looked really great and asked if we can watch it - so I'm now TIVO ing Lawrence Welk for her. Funny little bug! I'd much rather her watch that than most things that are on nowadays!

Question: Describe your yard as a child....did you help with yard work? What are your memories? Draw a diagram if you can.

I grew up out in the country. We had a big grassy area (or two) in front of the house - another to the side - and another in the back by the garden. Further back we had a natural area with sagebrush, weeds, lava rocks, etc. I found this to be great for my imagination - I had a place I called my castle. Another was the grave. Not a real grave - just imaginary! We spent a lot of time outdoors as kids - playing various games - exploring - having fun! We also helped with mowing of lawn, and weeding the garden. There were strawberries and raspberries to pick. Where there is a pool now - there used to be a big swingset. That was so much fun - until the termites ate it and it fell over :)

That's about it - have a good day!

Feb 11 2007

Last night DJ and Jared were replacing our pull-down ladder - the last one broke! DJ strained his back and had to stay home from church today. I shared my muscle relaxant and he slept great - lots better than me - last night. I just hope he's up to work tomorrow! Church was a real adventure - Biscut insisted on hitting me for no reason - and kept saying NO! really loudly - over and over again! I was really glad when nursery time came.

Question: Tell about home cures, or old wives tales - Hiccups, warts, toothaches, colds, earaches, birth control, arthritis, etc.

That's quite a list - I don't think we really have any home cures....that I can think of right now. My best tip is for laundry - reanimate grease stains by spraying with WD-40 then let sit for 15 minutes - then put liquid dish soap on and rub well -then wash. The grease always comes out. I guess I rely on modern medicine - things like Tylenol, etc. They really save me!

Have a restful day!

Feb 10 2007

Some great links for you today! I've had a great day with my family and am in the recovery phase of the day now - so the links will be the bulk of my entry! Still I have to share: Last night DJ and I went dancing and had a great time - also found a CD with a song I like on it - and enjoyed many of the other songs on the CD - so I"ll have to tell you about the CD maybe tomorrow....

Thanks, Sarah G for sharing these great links with me!

http://cjcphoto.com/can/ Something to read - and a youtube at the end....


http://www.boreme.com/boreme/funny-2006/rome-drawing-p1.php - something to watch!

Aren't those great! DJ and I were both crying at the first one - what a wonderful story. I believe that after this life - when we're all together again - we'll get to see many wonderful highlight stories from each other's lives. I don't want to know the bad stuff - but I look forward to the stories like these! What a gift to have these stories now - to inspire us to truly do our best. Oh - and I also believe that each one of us will have something in our lives that will be inspiring to someone else! Kind of makes you think!

Question for today: Did you have a favorite TVshow as a child or youth? Describe it.

I remember Mighty Mouse, Tom and Jerry, and many other cartoons. I think my favorite would have been Brady Bunch. It's the most memorable for me. Nothing bugs me more in kids shows nowadays as much as kids with no parents present - ever!

Well - enough inspiration - get out there and do something incredible! Live the life you were meant to live!

Feb 9 2007

It's out, and we couldn't be more pleased! The tooth fairy made a visit last night and left four shiny quarters. Pretty good deal for us considering the cost of building supplies! Mckay assured me that the tooth fairy is really little - so the teeth are a good size for building a house out of - and sure enough - she saw it on Arthur!

Kimball has her retainer and is doing well - she says it fits better this morning than yesterday - sounds like it's doing it's job well!

Hinks is wearing a smiley t-shirt to match her happy face today and Taylor is really happy this morning as well!

Question for today: Were you responsible for any household chores? What were they? Which did you most enjoy? Least enjoy?

We're talking about housework here- enjoy isn't a word I use. It's more like endure. I do like moving furniture around - rearranging things but I try to not do that too often as it really saps my energy! I took a turn doing all the chores around (in and out of) the house. We had chickens - I fed and watered them, I mowed the lawn, I cleaned the bathroom, did dishes, laundry, dusted, etc. Pretty much everything I do now! I keep trying to get my kids to make this connection and feel grateful they only have to do a portion - but it's not working yet! I do think the house will stay cleaner when I am the only one making the mess - the kids being in school.

Did you catch Oprah on Wednesday? - it was great - about Decluttering. You can probably find some links on her website. I will have to change my TIVo so I can see the re-run as I inadvertenly deleted it after I watched it. It was fun! Always amazing to see what people can put up with and live in!

Have a great day!

Feb 8 2007

Today is going a bit slow - I keep alternately remembering and forgetting Kimball's appointment for her retainer - I have to pick her up at 11:15. I hate the forgetting part.....We're working on some crazy Valentines for her class. I brought this on myself - my wrist is already hurting and I've got 31 flower middles to cut out yet (think stamens X16) She is so excited to be making Valentines, though instead of just byuing them. I won't be going this crazy again next year! I'll probably put a picture of one on here for a general Valentine to all of you!

Mckay's tooth is still in - but it hurt eating breakfast. I know you are all interested in the play by play - but my life doesn't get much better than this! I'm trying to convince her that sucking her thumb or finger will be bad for the tooth losing process - or feel funny once it's out - but that hasn't influenced her habit. That's the next big hurdle for Mckay - stopping her finger. It used to be her thumb - but now it's a pinkie. I don't get it.....

DJ has begun putting up the undercabinet lights - with only a bit of gentle prodding from me. OK - so it's out and out war - He's getting it done, though and I appreciate it! It's a little thing but I know it will make a huge difference - lighting always does!

The mess yesterday was massage oil - on my bedroom floor, comforter, and pillow. That was discouraging - but I just sent them to their room to be out of the way while I cleaned it up. I didn't think they would be very helpful with a mess like that - so the consequence was no time with me while I cleaned....trying to get to natural consequences.

I keep seeing a readerboard downtown - it always catches my eye - so I'll pass it on here - "He who throws dirt, loses ground." And they claim it's from the scriptures - I'm not sure where - I never remember that part. I do think about it a lot, though. I like thinks that make me think!

Question for today: Describe the perfect autumn day. What would you do on that day?

I love the autumn - I just like changing seasons in general - but autumn has to be at the top of the list, not too cold, or too hot, no allergens (for me). It would be a nice crisp morning - running errands - followed by a warm afternoon - low 70's temps. I would be outside - walking - maybe going to the park with the kids - letting them play longer than I want to - and hearing them laugh and giggle and talk about how fun it was all the way home. The evening would cool down so I would need to make some cocoa - and a breeze would come up - the first good breeze of fall - and the leaves would fall like snow - in the fading twilight. I would have a great book to read - as the kids went to bed better because of the exhertion - and how dark it was outside compared to summer evenings. That would be pretty close to perfect.

What about you - what's keeping you from making this the perfect day? Read - Doctrine and Covenants 50:24-25. These are my favorite scriptures. I'm chasing that perfect day.....

Feb 7 2007

Good Morning all! I'm thinking it's going to be a good day. Yesterday was pretty good - I watched Harlan, Gracie and Emery and they fit in so well, I didn't notice any real difference - except more faces at the lunch table :) I was really pleased that it went well. I generally shy away from babysitting nowadays - especially when there's little ones - under a year. Good experiences like yesterday make me a lot more confident!

Yesterday, Taylor put a small rubber band around her wrist - I think probably about the time I thought she was going to sleep. When she got up - she seemed OK - but then came screaming to me - I quickly saw the problem and got that off but her little hand was blue and purple! She still has a bit of a line where the rubber band was today - but it is fading. That seems to be a rite of passage with my little girls - they all have to have a scare like that. I still remember Hinckley's incident - some clear "thread" from the comforter around the base of her finger - on overnight. That finger looked like a carrot - shape wise. It took a couple of day for it to recover!

Mckay discovered her first loose tooth yesterday. It's one of the front - on the bottom. It will be comming out soon! I'm surprised because it seems that kids are usually in first grade before they lose a tooth. So - she's early. She's pleased as punch and informed me this morning that she would put it under her pillow - so the tooth fairy could get it to make her house of teeth. I don't know where that came from - but she's sure that's where it's going. So cute!

Question for today: Tell about all of the places you've worked.

OK - a quick rundown: The donut hole - during a high school summer
moving rocks out of a field during harvest - not picking rocks out of the potatoes
secretarial/computer tech for construction management department at College 1
school companion/in-school suspension lady at Jr High
secretarial at University 1
substitute teacher at various schools

I also spent 2 summers paid-vacation at my Aunt & Uncles. I don't think there was too much work involved - because I had a great time!

Well - get on with your day - I will too! My goal for today is to take pictures of an old scrapbook (quicker than scanning). Make it fun - w'ere playing Old Maid!

Feb6 2007

Starting last Friday, my dryer has decided to sound like a gatling gun (or what I think that would sound like anyway...). It not only has it's usual squeak - it clatters and grinds too! My dear hubbie took time last night to take it apart - and not only see what was happening - but fixed it too! - At least for the short term. We're working on saving up to get a new stack - like they have at the laundromat - but without the coin slots. I guess they are really durable if they use them commercially. Hopefully next month.....I'll keep you posted!

Kimball is so excited about her teeth. I think she's getting used to the new feel of them - and she's smiling really big! She got them on last Janurary - so it's just been a year, but this is just phase 1. We wait and see what happens from here - whether we'll get them back on later or not. She will get her retainer on Thursday - and I think it will be a permanent one - not sure though...

Today we're having Harlan, Gracie, and Emery over - my girls are thrilled! We don't clean up too much when we have friends or cousins over - because we need to keep the fun out and accessable. I'm working on a list of errands - so far I think I have 3 or 4 stops. Not sure when I'll get to that.

My question for today: Who is the first Prophet that you remember, what do you remember about him?

I think back to President Kimball - the prophet of my childhood. I remember just feeling love when I listened to his gravelly voice - the only voice I knew him to have. I didn't realize until recently that his voice had changed considerably due to the surgeries and illness he suffered. I always liked listening to his talks during conference - I don't remember anyone else, really.

Forgive me for not commenting on your blogs - I do enjoy reading what you're up to, though. I get pretty overwhelmed with how behind I am when I take a day off blogging. I'll be back to commenting soon - I hope!

Have a fabulous day!

Feb 5 2007

The braces are off! She is getting used to having slick teeth.

Funny thing - we left before she was totally done, so I had to go back and get her from school - then back to the orthodontist. The receptionist didn't realize she wasn't done - and nobody else told her she needed to wait......Makes for an interesting day!

It's going to take me a couple of days to recover from our adventure on Saturday - so I'll make this a short post!

Question: Describe walking down main street of your hometown.

I don't know that my hometown really has a main street for walking down - it's just so small that there's not much to see. I'm thinking of downtown (using that term as the locals would) - there's a stationary store, and a furniture store, and I dont' know what else.....

Have a good day.....

Feb 4 2007

Today is a birthday here - and we're excited. The girls are having so much fun and are so busy! It's hard to keep up with the clean-up. Yesterday we went on a trip to a Winter Festival. It was really cold - check out the temp!

We saw lots of snow sculptures - and played in the snow a bit.

My question for today: Where is the most exciting places you have ever been to? What made it exciting? (I typed it just as it was written - grammer problems included).

The bathroom. You wouldn't believe how dirty it was! Seriously, I can't think of anyplace that I would use the word "exciting" to describe. Maybe I just would describe things differently......

I think I was most intimidated by a place - where DJ took me over Spring Break years ago when we got engaged. It was in the mountains - a hike that was really intense. We got to a place - they had to help lift me up because I couldn't climb up it myself - I think it was called the devils ladder....well, past that place, we continued hiking. I forgot to mention that we had DJ's bro's with us - Nate and Ed. Well, Nate was probably about 16 and Ed was 12. We got past that place and kept going - and it wasn't too bad, except that DJ and Nate decided to climb up the side of a hill on the right - that was very steep - hands and feet climbing steep. They forgot us - maybe they were supposed to come back - I don't know...So Ed and I had to get out on our own - with my hand being a foothold for him to climb higher. That was intense!@

Anyway - enough for today - I have cake to eat!

Feb 2 2007

Groundhog day. I think about that every year - on this day. Back in 1994, I had a friend who entered the MTC for a mission on this day. I always remember that. I can't believe that it's been 13 years ago! How the time flies....and I like watching Groundhog day (movie) about once a year. I saw it not too long ago - so I won't be watching today.

I wish I could take it easy today - but too much to do, too little time! I've heard the saying - You can rest when you're dead, and some days I think that really applies! It's all good stuff- we're getting ready for a grand adventure tomorrow - I'll post pictures and details later, but suffice it to say, we've got to get up early to go and we're planning a big lunch for extended family who will be joining us - so I have to get the food preparations today. Before I forget- I should have mentioned who Daughters of Eve was by - It's John Lund and you can find it at Deseret Book.

Question for today:

What did you want to be when you grew up?

Well, older for sure! I was anxious to grow up - and now I laugh at myself. I think I wanted to be a genetic engineer. I had a lot of plans for a career, etc. Then I met DJ and a mom at home was important to him, so it became important to me. I finished my schooling (not in genetic engineering, though), because that's always a good idea - insurance if you will. I realized the other day that I have been home with my kids for 8 years!!! I don't know that I'll be a homebody forever - but I know it's important to be with my kids. I truly believe that its easier to go to work each day - my house was a lot cleaner when I was finishing school and Kimball spent the day at a friend's home. However, what is right is not always easiest.

Bonus Question - because if I'm too tired tomorrow, I want to have answered a question.

What is your personal secret for happiness?
I've only discovered that recently through the Daughters of Eve Cd's- it's a personal relationship with our Heavenly Father. That, and praying for peace in my heart.

Feb 1 2007

Today is a slow - TV day. I'm needing to catch up on sleep again. I try to sleep and it just isn't the quality I need - it seems like I'm awake all night - with my eyes closed, though. I get to take an ambien tomorrow night! That will help a ton! This week in general has been much better - even though I'm lacking sleep. I have listened (again) to the Daughters of Eve Cd's - and had DJ listen with me. I highly recommend you get a set of your own. There are such great things taught in there! I found myself smiling on the way to get Kimball yesterday. Now I think I'm generally in a good mood - but I don't usually catch myself smiling like that! Also - I was running late and had to wake up all the little girls to go - so they were fussy. They had also colored with markers on the wall while they were supposed to be napping. So it's even more amazing that I was smiling - and smiling big at that! I just feel like I have a new perspective on things.

My question today is: Tell about your life as the children left home. New interests, what you did with the extra time, new employment, moves, hobbies, etc.

Well, I would answer that if I were at that place in my life. I look forward to the new experiences I will have - but I am enjoying the times (even when I have a day like yesterday). My girls will only be little for a short while longer. I had better enjoy it!!!

Enjoy your day!