Last day of the month - better make it good! Life is heating up around here - I guess we're almost in July. Today I had some much needed me time - and am ready to be a nice mommy and wife again. DJ is out working in the yard today - and we have Jared and Cory's kids comming this evening. I realized thanks to Reg - that it was time to pre-order my Harry Potter Tix for the new movie - so we're babysitting tonight in exchange for them babysitting on the 11th! Kimball is a bit sad that she won't get to see the movie in the Theater - but I told her we need to see it first. I find these a lot less scarry in the comfort of our home.
I liked the answers from yesterday's question - I also learned a bit about your personalities through how literal or not you took the question. It's all good. I wouldn't have thought of more than 1 evening being offered! Interesting and wonderful how differently we see things. The question today will likely spark some similar discoveries!
Here it is: After you die you are given the chance to be reborn as an animal, which animal would you choose?
First - I don't believe there is any chance of this actually happening! However - I will answer the question as if there were - I think I would be a bee. I know it's an insect not an animal - but it's my answer! I think they understand their role - and perform it as efficiently as possible. Also - I think I read somewhere - that according to the laws of physics (or something) they are not supposed to be able to fly - but fly they do! I think that's pretty neat. Being able to defy the laws of physics, have means of defense (but with a heavy cost - don't they die after they sting someone?), and a focused job; that's a great life! It's what came to mind first.....at any rate. What do you think?
Have a wonderful sunny Saturday!
Saturday, June 30, 2007
Friday, June 29, 2007
June 29 2007
Friday - and busy! I who never yard-sale, took all the kids on a walk to a yard sale! We got Kimball a sweater, jacket, 1 pair levi's and a dress! That was the goal - clothes for Kimball so we did well. I'm thinking I'll either have to start checking these out or send a sis-in-law who enjoys browsing. What deals! Anyway - by the time we got home, we were all tired. Luckily I had enough older kids for everyone to have a "buddy" and the real little ones were in the double stroller!
I think that's probably the big event for today - other than baking something. We did pretzels again yesterday - and they were so good! I had some carmel I had made a while ago - so we picked up apples yesterday at the store and I made carmel apples. So pleased at how well they turn out! If you're looking for a recipie, here's a great one - from our local newspaper:
Carmel Apples
1 c. salted peanuts (chopped into fine chunks)
1/2 c. butter
2 c. firmly packed brown sugar
1 c. light corn syrup
Dash salt
1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
1 tsp. vanilla
10 tart apples, washed and dried
10 lollypop sticks (or dowels or I use tongue depressors)
Chop peanuts and set aside in a bowl. Melt butter in 2 quart saucepan; add brown sugar, corn syrup and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until mixture comes to a full boil (about 12 minutes). Stir in sweetened condenses milk. Continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until small amount of mixture dropped into ice water forms a firm ball (245 on candy thermometer) - about 25 minutes (so says the recipe- it doesn't take this long for me:)) Remove syrup from heat; stir in vanilla. Holding onto stick, drip apples into carmel mixture (oh yeah - don't forget to insert sticks before this step!). Dip far end of apple into peanuts. Place on buttered (really important) waxed paper to set.
Makes 10 apples
It is really good! I think it makes more than 10 - because my left-over carmel (don't remember what I used carmel for originally) coated 12 apples yesterday - really thick coats too!
That was really fun - cooking these things - plus I love this recipie because it doesn't call for cream (which I almost never have on hand) - it uses the sweetened condensed milk (which I always have on hand) so I can make this without planning too much in advance!
Well, on to the question: If you could spend New Year's Eve with any 10 people currently living, or already dead, whom would you select?
10 people - I would have to select a couple to find out family history questions - since we can include dead people. That's 2 right off. Plus DJ - he would want to be there too. It would be neat to visit with the current prophet - although he probably goes to bed before midnight! So, I'm up to 4....if I let my girls come too - that brings me to 8. Two more.....my friend Sylvie - because it's been 14 years since I've seen her. And last, Mimi - because she did so much family history, and would be able to answer a lot of questions without me having to take time to get to know her first. That's my 10 - I didn't include Jesus or other prophets - because I know they're too busy. Not that I wouldn't want to talk to them. And the evening wouldn't be a typical New-Years Eve!
That's my list - how about you? Have a wonderful weekend everyone!
I think that's probably the big event for today - other than baking something. We did pretzels again yesterday - and they were so good! I had some carmel I had made a while ago - so we picked up apples yesterday at the store and I made carmel apples. So pleased at how well they turn out! If you're looking for a recipie, here's a great one - from our local newspaper:
Carmel Apples
1 c. salted peanuts (chopped into fine chunks)
1/2 c. butter
2 c. firmly packed brown sugar
1 c. light corn syrup
Dash salt
1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
1 tsp. vanilla
10 tart apples, washed and dried
10 lollypop sticks (or dowels or I use tongue depressors)
Chop peanuts and set aside in a bowl. Melt butter in 2 quart saucepan; add brown sugar, corn syrup and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until mixture comes to a full boil (about 12 minutes). Stir in sweetened condenses milk. Continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until small amount of mixture dropped into ice water forms a firm ball (245 on candy thermometer) - about 25 minutes (so says the recipe- it doesn't take this long for me:)) Remove syrup from heat; stir in vanilla. Holding onto stick, drip apples into carmel mixture (oh yeah - don't forget to insert sticks before this step!). Dip far end of apple into peanuts. Place on buttered (really important) waxed paper to set.
Makes 10 apples
It is really good! I think it makes more than 10 - because my left-over carmel (don't remember what I used carmel for originally) coated 12 apples yesterday - really thick coats too!
That was really fun - cooking these things - plus I love this recipie because it doesn't call for cream (which I almost never have on hand) - it uses the sweetened condensed milk (which I always have on hand) so I can make this without planning too much in advance!
Well, on to the question: If you could spend New Year's Eve with any 10 people currently living, or already dead, whom would you select?
10 people - I would have to select a couple to find out family history questions - since we can include dead people. That's 2 right off. Plus DJ - he would want to be there too. It would be neat to visit with the current prophet - although he probably goes to bed before midnight! So, I'm up to 4....if I let my girls come too - that brings me to 8. Two more.....my friend Sylvie - because it's been 14 years since I've seen her. And last, Mimi - because she did so much family history, and would be able to answer a lot of questions without me having to take time to get to know her first. That's my 10 - I didn't include Jesus or other prophets - because I know they're too busy. Not that I wouldn't want to talk to them. And the evening wouldn't be a typical New-Years Eve!
That's my list - how about you? Have a wonderful weekend everyone!
Thursday, June 28, 2007
June 28 2007b
So I put the wrong date on yesterday! Oh well.....Due to schedule changes we won't have Jared's kids until tomorrow. So today is errand and visit great-grandma day. Kaye's mom is in town so we'll be visiting her ;) The morning is comming along - everyone dressed and ready - just waiting on me to do my blog.
I am especially flattered to be part of your ideal holiday, Sarah! That memory is rather faint for me - so I enjoyed reading about it - with memory growing stronger through the reminder. Thank you! It reminds me that I need to make sure I have that personal history on DVD somewhere!
Question for today: Who then can so softly bind up the wound of another as he who has felt the same wound himself? --Thomas Jefferson.
First, I am reminded of Becky's blog yesterday about scars. This question seems to tie into that thought. It's a good day when we come to realize the truth of this question. So many times we isolate ourselves thinking our experience unique. It really isn't. With so many people currently on the earth - and in the past - many have experiences like ours. As women - we share many common experiences as well. What a blessing to have understanding and comfort from those who have been through it before!
I was reminded of one scar I have - rather interesting although it is fading. A couple of years ago I was doing some shredding of zucchinni with my shredder and the zucchinni slipped and my hand hit the shredder. So on the back of my hand is a bit of a shred pattern - parallel to the edge of my hand - just down from my pinkie if that makes sense. I was really self-concious about it that first year - because it was so visible. Now I can barely see it - especially with a bit of tan as I now have. It almost looks like an animal scratch or something someone might have tatooed. Anyway - it seems like I have more scars than memories of where they came from. I had some real visceral reactions as I remembered how I got some of my scars - injury related. They do take one back in time, though!
I was also thinking about the function of the scar itself. We know that when Christ returns - he will still have the prints of the nails in his hands (and a scar in his side - I think?!?). Just thinking about that......
Have a great day!
I am especially flattered to be part of your ideal holiday, Sarah! That memory is rather faint for me - so I enjoyed reading about it - with memory growing stronger through the reminder. Thank you! It reminds me that I need to make sure I have that personal history on DVD somewhere!
Question for today: Who then can so softly bind up the wound of another as he who has felt the same wound himself? --Thomas Jefferson.
First, I am reminded of Becky's blog yesterday about scars. This question seems to tie into that thought. It's a good day when we come to realize the truth of this question. So many times we isolate ourselves thinking our experience unique. It really isn't. With so many people currently on the earth - and in the past - many have experiences like ours. As women - we share many common experiences as well. What a blessing to have understanding and comfort from those who have been through it before!
I was reminded of one scar I have - rather interesting although it is fading. A couple of years ago I was doing some shredding of zucchinni with my shredder and the zucchinni slipped and my hand hit the shredder. So on the back of my hand is a bit of a shred pattern - parallel to the edge of my hand - just down from my pinkie if that makes sense. I was really self-concious about it that first year - because it was so visible. Now I can barely see it - especially with a bit of tan as I now have. It almost looks like an animal scratch or something someone might have tatooed. Anyway - it seems like I have more scars than memories of where they came from. I had some real visceral reactions as I remembered how I got some of my scars - injury related. They do take one back in time, though!
I was also thinking about the function of the scar itself. We know that when Christ returns - he will still have the prints of the nails in his hands (and a scar in his side - I think?!?). Just thinking about that......
Have a great day!
Wednesday, June 27, 2007
June 28 2007
What a wonderful comment from Becky! Tony really is a special person and I'm so glad you have each other! We each have our talents and I'll bet that you've mellowed over the years :) It's not about being perfect today - just doing better than you have in the past. At least that's what I'm clinging to.
We have a cousin over today - Hailey. She's my niece on the paternal side of our family - not using any last names here - it's a public blog after all! She's making the day really fun for my girls - right now they're all in the backyard playing a game (I think) based in on a show we saw yesterday - Felicity - An American Girl (or something close to that). Have any of you seen any of these American Girl shows - on Hallmark Channel. They tell the story (based on fiction I think - a compliation of what might have occured at the time) of different girls throughout American History. We've seen three and my girls have thoroughly enjoyed them. Felicity's story takes place in 1775 in Virginia. So my girls are playing some game involving feeding the soldiers - with a good and bad side trying to catch each other. That's a pretty rough explanation - but it's an evolving game. I think Hailey will be over tomorrow and Friday as well - so we're in for some fun. Also - Jared and Cory are bringing their kids over so they can attend the temple tomorrow morning! It's going to be a busy house. Somehow - it will be less work for me than it otherwise would be. That's the blessing of it!
Question for today: Describe the perfect holiday meal. Who are the guests? What food is served? How is the table decorated?
I've been to many perfect holiday meals in my life. It doesn't seem to matter what we eat or how the table is set - its that wonderful feeling you get being around family and friends. That said - I really like mashed potatoes, turkery and ham (a little bit of both), some jello, a roll, vegetable (maybe corn). Am I forgetting anything? Too many desserts to choose from - so probably just a bite from a couple of them (snitching off of DJ's plate). I always like holiday decorations - any holiday. They just seem to add a bit of color and life at those special times. That sounds really nice!
Before I forget (again!) I wanted to add this link I found - http://www.joann.com/joann/catalog.jsp;jsessionid=K1QQPG0UPGUYEP4SY5NFAFR50LD3KUPU?CATID=cat1001
It's to JOANN Stores web site - specifically the project ideas portion. I had such fun looking through the various ideas. Somewhere along the way I got some homemade dishclothes. I thought it would be fun to make some more (in the wintertime) so when I saw a little thing at the store telling about the website I thought I'd check it out - and sure enough - the pattern is on there! Knit and Crochet dishcloths. There are several other categories additionally - so if you want to check it out - the link is above!
Well, That's enough for today. I'm hoping to get my picture wall done soon! I'll put a picture when I can. Have a great day!
We have a cousin over today - Hailey. She's my niece on the paternal side of our family - not using any last names here - it's a public blog after all! She's making the day really fun for my girls - right now they're all in the backyard playing a game (I think) based in on a show we saw yesterday - Felicity - An American Girl (or something close to that). Have any of you seen any of these American Girl shows - on Hallmark Channel. They tell the story (based on fiction I think - a compliation of what might have occured at the time) of different girls throughout American History. We've seen three and my girls have thoroughly enjoyed them. Felicity's story takes place in 1775 in Virginia. So my girls are playing some game involving feeding the soldiers - with a good and bad side trying to catch each other. That's a pretty rough explanation - but it's an evolving game. I think Hailey will be over tomorrow and Friday as well - so we're in for some fun. Also - Jared and Cory are bringing their kids over so they can attend the temple tomorrow morning! It's going to be a busy house. Somehow - it will be less work for me than it otherwise would be. That's the blessing of it!
Question for today: Describe the perfect holiday meal. Who are the guests? What food is served? How is the table decorated?
I've been to many perfect holiday meals in my life. It doesn't seem to matter what we eat or how the table is set - its that wonderful feeling you get being around family and friends. That said - I really like mashed potatoes, turkery and ham (a little bit of both), some jello, a roll, vegetable (maybe corn). Am I forgetting anything? Too many desserts to choose from - so probably just a bite from a couple of them (snitching off of DJ's plate). I always like holiday decorations - any holiday. They just seem to add a bit of color and life at those special times. That sounds really nice!
Before I forget (again!) I wanted to add this link I found - http://www.joann.com/joann/catalog.jsp;jsessionid=K1QQPG0UPGUYEP4SY5NFAFR50LD3KUPU?CATID=cat1001
It's to JOANN Stores web site - specifically the project ideas portion. I had such fun looking through the various ideas. Somewhere along the way I got some homemade dishclothes. I thought it would be fun to make some more (in the wintertime) so when I saw a little thing at the store telling about the website I thought I'd check it out - and sure enough - the pattern is on there! Knit and Crochet dishcloths. There are several other categories additionally - so if you want to check it out - the link is above!
Well, That's enough for today. I'm hoping to get my picture wall done soon! I'll put a picture when I can. Have a great day!
Tuesday, June 26, 2007
June 26 2007
I'm getting the blog done! Yeah! Some days that's a real accomplishment. I so enjoyed and felt encouraged by the comments yesterday - especially Sharon! The real trick is figuring out what I want. DJ is always so encouraging and helpful - he just can't read my mind - and we run into trouble when I can't read my mind either (if that makes sense). I think we're all just doing the best we can - hoping and praying that it's enough (that we're enough).
I took a picture of my desk:
And here's the other cabinet - with some plants that really help dress it up:
I've got the girls going on little jobs around the house this morning - they each drew out a popsicle stick with a job listed on it. After jobs - we're going to do - dinner impossible. For us this just means that we have enough in the fridge to come up with something wonderful - and everyone gets to have imput on what that wonderful stuff looks like. I'm trying to get it done early so I don't have to think about it later. Kimball wants to watch Dinner Impossible while we do it - I think we have an episode she can enjoy. It really is fun seeing what they come up with. I have to remember to get some recipies online today from the Semi-homemade show - so I can delete the episodes I've saved. I don't like everything she makes but some things sound pretty good.
Well - many feelings today upon hearing that my sis-in-law Sheila had miscarried. More than anything it brought back memories of a similar situation we had and all the associated feelings. What I learned from that experience was to take the time you need to feel, think, and heal. Even if you don't have the time (or think you don't) - it has a way of making you take the time in the long run. What a blessing time is! It helps us mark our progress and shows us how we've grown. The biggest blessing I can think of at times like this is that we don't know what's ahead of us. In retrospect, it is interesting to see what we've experienced and be grateful we didn't know we would go through that in advance!
The question for today: How can you govern a nation that has two hundred and forty different kinds of cheese?--Charles de Gaulle
I don't think I've ever considered the difficulty of governing a nation with 240 kinds of cheese. I guess we all have our challenges.....But maybe he means in this the differences that make us so uinque (and sure that we're making cheese the right way?). That would be a challenge. I just finished the For all Eternity CD's - number 4 was the last for me to listen to. Conflict Resolution is the topic. I think I'm just going to have to get a set of these for myself - so many great thoughts and suggestions. I really hope to incorporate many of the ideas into my way of life. One little item - he suggests that among equals we ask permission before we say something critical (critiquing not critical in the important sense). I think most of the suggestions really boil down to being humble and valuing other people and their opinions. That sounds pretty straightforward - but he is able to really offer some suggestions that I for one hadn't thought of. Being willing to listen to others ideas without feeling threatened or criticized. Not sure on the spelling of that word.....
Anway - that's really a trick for the leader - listen and then decide and move forward! Have a great day everyone!
Monday, June 25, 2007
June 25 2007
The weekend was just too busy and my body couldn't keep up. I crashed! For me that means that I felt like I had the flu Saturday (did the slip and slide anyway - that's what mom's have to do) and Sunday (stayed home from church because everything hurt so bad). Today is going a bit rough - but I have too much to do to stay in bed all day.
My definition of a good weekend (usually) is if the girls had a good time and the mess was cleaned up. This weekend fit that definition - so it must have been good. A little recap: Friday at the temple was so nice -
Here's Tina, Nate and Ashlyn. Then on to Saturday:
Little Biscut but it pretty hard - on the concrete sidewalk - a face plant. Her poor head has another goosegg! She recovered and enjoyed the rest of the day - especially the part where she snuggied mama and took a nap!
Here's a shot of the "cow train" although it doesn't look very cow-like. Last year it was white with black spots. All the kids got one or two turns riding this with Grandpa Dan driving it around the neighborhood.
Next we have a picture of the comming down part of the slip and slide - Kimball and Lydia(cousin). Then the splash at the end.
It really was quite fun. There was some misunderstanding about application of sunscreen - so I ended up with crispy kids. They will survive, I suppose but I feel really badly about it! I didn't get burned as I stayed in the shade.
It's going to take today to get my computer area totally picture ready - so hopefully I'll put a pic on tomorrow of that!
Question for today: If the ends don't justify the means, what can? --John Maynard Keynes
This really applies for today. We'll put my weekend into the equation - If burned and bruised kids and a sick mom don't justify the slip and slide - what does? These things aren't supposed to justify it. They are part of the price of the experience. I think the justification for having the slip and slide comes in the memories we are creating - for our kids as well as cousins, friends, and neighbors who participate. Some experiences in life, while important, are painful. I really wish I could have spared my girls the sunburn pain - but at this point in the road - there's not much I can do but feel regret about that. I think I'm more willing to pay the price myself - but there are times I can't do it - like yesterday - and I pay in other ways (losing special time with my girls, etc.) I think there are experiences we just need to have - for education, life lessons, etc. and memories that we want to enjoy later. I think these justify the means.
Many times our values and others don't match up. I think when we feel others expectations and don't want to pay the price - that can be really tough. A little hypothetical example - DJ wants to go hiking for a week. In order for him to do that - I must do just as always and be the mom (watch the girls). It isn't any more (or much more) than is normally expected of me. The problem comes when I want him to spend his vacation with us (different values) - and am unwilling to pay the price for his value. Things can quickly escalate into a situtation where neither of us is satisfied with the end or the means. Let us all speak kind words to each other (as the song says) and not expect more of others than they are willing to pay.
OK - that's good for me today. What do you think?
Friday, June 22, 2007
June 22 2007
Friday! A busy day for us - exciting too! My bro and sis (both in-law) are going through the temple today - endowment and sealing. I have the responsibility to bring their little girl along just for the sealing - no point her being there all afternoon! So we're really excited for them. What a wonderful day for it too! That's about everything on my mind today.
I know I still don't have a picture of my room - but hopefully over the weekend. I'm in the midst of my picture project - the old pictures on the wall by the table.....I'll put a picture of that too! Busy, busy.....and tomorrow is the big slip and slide! Lots of pictures to take.
Question for today: If money were no object, what one gift would you purchase for your mate?
I liked someone's response last time about a paid off house. Didn't think that big myself - but wanted to mention how much I liked it - I think it was Sarah!?! Anyway - DJ would like that too. But if I was buying it I would get him a new truck (with a lift kit already installed - with a complete warranty on the rig for as long as possible) - that definately has air conditioning. The man has been driving for years now without air conditioning. There's a fine line between frugal and just plain stubborn and attached to a truck too much! I'm not making that judgement - just stating that the line is fine. That is what I would get DJ. As I have accused him of loving his truck more than me - that is the gift that would mean the most to him.
Have a wonderful day! And definately check out those CD's Reg!
I know I still don't have a picture of my room - but hopefully over the weekend. I'm in the midst of my picture project - the old pictures on the wall by the table.....I'll put a picture of that too! Busy, busy.....and tomorrow is the big slip and slide! Lots of pictures to take.
Question for today: If money were no object, what one gift would you purchase for your mate?
I liked someone's response last time about a paid off house. Didn't think that big myself - but wanted to mention how much I liked it - I think it was Sarah!?! Anyway - DJ would like that too. But if I was buying it I would get him a new truck (with a lift kit already installed - with a complete warranty on the rig for as long as possible) - that definately has air conditioning. The man has been driving for years now without air conditioning. There's a fine line between frugal and just plain stubborn and attached to a truck too much! I'm not making that judgement - just stating that the line is fine. That is what I would get DJ. As I have accused him of loving his truck more than me - that is the gift that would mean the most to him.
Have a wonderful day! And definately check out those CD's Reg!
Thursday, June 21, 2007
June 21 2007
The longest day of the year! Going back to my last post - I agree with you, Becky. We ought to ignore or appreciate that which we cannot change. I think that because we are different - it just reinforces our need for same-gender friends. They can truly appreciate and understand our circumstance. Our dear husbands provide another perspective. Both are helpful.
Yesterday I didn't blog. Not because I didn't want to - but because I was re-arranging my back room and the computer didn't get re-assembled until late into the night. DJ had asked me to wait until Friday to do something - but I just couldn't wait! I've realized from some CD's a friend loaned me - John Lund again - "For all Eternity" - that I am a visual person. I see work all around me. That's not necessarily a bad thing - it's just different from the other types described - Verbal and Touch oriented. It was so nice to hear about his wife - who is also a visual person. He even described her staying up one night a week to do projects. If I didn't so need my sleep.....Anyway - I have so enjoyed these CD's - especially #4 which is especially appropriate for a Sunday afternoon (or morning I guess).
But back to the room - I haven't taken a picture yet - but I will....when I've got it just so. Already it's so much better!
Question for today: What if they gave a war and nobody came? --Carl Sandburg
Interesting thought. I'm afraid I don't have much to add or subtract from that question. I will just leave it as it is for today....
Have a good day!
Yesterday I didn't blog. Not because I didn't want to - but because I was re-arranging my back room and the computer didn't get re-assembled until late into the night. DJ had asked me to wait until Friday to do something - but I just couldn't wait! I've realized from some CD's a friend loaned me - John Lund again - "For all Eternity" - that I am a visual person. I see work all around me. That's not necessarily a bad thing - it's just different from the other types described - Verbal and Touch oriented. It was so nice to hear about his wife - who is also a visual person. He even described her staying up one night a week to do projects. If I didn't so need my sleep.....Anyway - I have so enjoyed these CD's - especially #4 which is especially appropriate for a Sunday afternoon (or morning I guess).
But back to the room - I haven't taken a picture yet - but I will....when I've got it just so. Already it's so much better!
Question for today: What if they gave a war and nobody came? --Carl Sandburg
Interesting thought. I'm afraid I don't have much to add or subtract from that question. I will just leave it as it is for today....
Have a good day!
Tuesday, June 19, 2007
June 19 2007
I recently discovered how to move my cursor over the time at the bottom of the screen to see what the date is. That really helps so I don't sit here for a while trying to remember what the date is before I type my blog.
Today is going - almost gone. Making tacos for dinner....nothing else much. Oh well!
Question for today: What is the one thing the opposite gender simply doesn't "get" about your gender?
If I knew that and could explain it so they did "get" it - I'd be a wealthy woman! I do think there are things that they can't understand but quantifying what those are exactly is tough. Give me some feedback on this!
Today is going - almost gone. Making tacos for dinner....nothing else much. Oh well!
Question for today: What is the one thing the opposite gender simply doesn't "get" about your gender?
If I knew that and could explain it so they did "get" it - I'd be a wealthy woman! I do think there are things that they can't understand but quantifying what those are exactly is tough. Give me some feedback on this!
Monday, June 18, 2007
June 18 2007
It's not quite evening yet - and we're getting ready for FHE. It's going to be a nice calm evening - I hope. I'm almost asleep already! We did library today and the park - and even a doctor's visit. Glad that's behind us. Taylor again astounded us by not crying when she got her 2 shots! She certainly wasn't pleased and wasn't comfortable - but didn't make a peep. I think the princess band-aids really help.
Question for the day: Why do we kill people who are killing people to show that killing people is wrong?--Holly Neat
I was just going to let that sit but I have to comment: I don't think the only reason that we kill people who kill people is to show that it's wrong - I think we do it to protect society and advance the individual's judgement day. We don't do it often - because it's such a serious step and I believe that it's easier (a lot easier) to change and learn and grow in this life. I believe that life continues after death - as part of an eternal progression.
I don't believe that the death penalty is a deterrent to murder. I don't know if it was designed to be or not.
Too deep for me to go any deeper into this. I hope I get a better question tomorrow!
Question for the day: Why do we kill people who are killing people to show that killing people is wrong?--Holly Neat
I was just going to let that sit but I have to comment: I don't think the only reason that we kill people who kill people is to show that it's wrong - I think we do it to protect society and advance the individual's judgement day. We don't do it often - because it's such a serious step and I believe that it's easier (a lot easier) to change and learn and grow in this life. I believe that life continues after death - as part of an eternal progression.
I don't believe that the death penalty is a deterrent to murder. I don't know if it was designed to be or not.
Too deep for me to go any deeper into this. I hope I get a better question tomorrow!
Saturday, June 16, 2007
June 16 2007
Well DJ surprised me with a nice evening planned for tonight! I'm really excited to get out of the house for a few hours. Ran some errands this morning - getting things done I suppose.
Question for today: What is history but a fable agreed upon? --Napoleon Bonaparte
Saw a movie last week - The Emperor's New Clothes - about Napoleon and another possible ending to his life. It was interesting and encouraged me to do some research. My husband's family comes (way back) from the border area between France and Spain. I looked up dates and did some checking and found that we had ancestors in that region during the French Revolution! That was interesting to find out - also made me wonder if our ancestors had fought with Napoleon. I'll have to see if there's any records on that.....but about 10 years after Napoleon's downfall - that family came over the ocean to Canada - I'm sure there's a story or a reason for leaving at that point - when things had finally stabilized!
Napoleon seems to have been quite a charater. I don't think I'd take his defintion of history as mine, though. The basis for history is dates and places - facts that are often filled in by biased narrative. Everyone sees things differently - so you can't help but have bias in these accounts. That doesn't make it a fable, though.
Get out and make some history of your own today!
Question for today: What is history but a fable agreed upon? --Napoleon Bonaparte
Saw a movie last week - The Emperor's New Clothes - about Napoleon and another possible ending to his life. It was interesting and encouraged me to do some research. My husband's family comes (way back) from the border area between France and Spain. I looked up dates and did some checking and found that we had ancestors in that region during the French Revolution! That was interesting to find out - also made me wonder if our ancestors had fought with Napoleon. I'll have to see if there's any records on that.....but about 10 years after Napoleon's downfall - that family came over the ocean to Canada - I'm sure there's a story or a reason for leaving at that point - when things had finally stabilized!
Napoleon seems to have been quite a charater. I don't think I'd take his defintion of history as mine, though. The basis for history is dates and places - facts that are often filled in by biased narrative. Everyone sees things differently - so you can't help but have bias in these accounts. That doesn't make it a fable, though.
Get out and make some history of your own today!
Friday, June 15, 2007
June 15 2007
Later than I hoped - but I'm getting it done. Not much to say about today - so I'll go straight to the question:
What happens to a dream deferred? Does it dry up like a raisin in the sun?...Or does it explode?--Langston Hughes
I don't think it does either of these - I think it just disappears. Life is what happens when you're busy making other plans.
Have a good weekend!
What happens to a dream deferred? Does it dry up like a raisin in the sun?...Or does it explode?--Langston Hughes
I don't think it does either of these - I think it just disappears. Life is what happens when you're busy making other plans.
Have a good weekend!
Thursday, June 14, 2007
June 14 2007
Seems like it should be Friday - but it's not! I guess it will be soon enough....I've got to get going today - too much to do. Happy Flag Day (before I forget!) I need to make a run to the cannery - my in-laws are hosting a dry-pack party on Saturday and I need to get cans for both them and us. Should be fun - gets it done at any rate!
Question for today: (Scripture actually) What is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? (Matthew 26)
Always a good reminder - this world really isn't that great! It's good to enjoy our time here - but we shouldn't get too attached. Hard to do I know - we get so caught up in the day to day that we lose our perspective at times. I guess that's why we are encouraged to read the scriptures daily - to help maintain that perspective. It also conveys the idea that Becky expressed in her comments a couple of days ago - there is a cost or price for everything (achievements, experiences, etc.) I guess it's up to us to determine how much we are willing to pay for what we really want (and not get sidelined by the pretty things along the way - impulse buying if you will).
Have a great day!
Question for today: (Scripture actually) What is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? (Matthew 26)
Always a good reminder - this world really isn't that great! It's good to enjoy our time here - but we shouldn't get too attached. Hard to do I know - we get so caught up in the day to day that we lose our perspective at times. I guess that's why we are encouraged to read the scriptures daily - to help maintain that perspective. It also conveys the idea that Becky expressed in her comments a couple of days ago - there is a cost or price for everything (achievements, experiences, etc.) I guess it's up to us to determine how much we are willing to pay for what we really want (and not get sidelined by the pretty things along the way - impulse buying if you will).
Have a great day!
Wednesday, June 13, 2007
June 13 2007
Afternoon here. Busy morning - and afternoon is spinning away too! I'm still busy plotting my laundry/back room. I've got the laundry figured out - but not sure about the other - maybe I just have too many options. OK - I'll put some pics - and you can give some input! DJ got busy and put in my new cabinet - which creates a bit of a tight squeeze at my current computer location. Kimball said - I'm not in the way, am I? Forgive the blurr...
So you're wondering what the new cabinet looks like - just like the others - Here it is:
That's the laundry cubby - it will be really streamlined when we get our "stack" - then we'll have another "base" cabinet between the wall and the stack. My sorting cubbies are here:
They really help - a box for each girl and ours is under the bench (which is holding a lot of stuff). Ignore the clothes I haven't sorted. So far, I know where I"m heading. Until I get here:
No clue what to do. Do I move the computer somewhere - and if so, where? I have that white bookshelf, and the great closet shown below. You get a hint of the bookshelves beyond. I guess I just need a theme to this room - to give it some direction. I'm thinking of a study room - because the computer will be here somewhere. Maybe even adding another computer or two for the girls....but because it's so narrow - it doesn't really have room for a couch or love seat anymore.
So what do you think? Just taking the pictures - I'm appaled at the junk piled on everything! I'm telling myself it is just because it's in progress - We'll that's not helping anything! This is also the main entrance to our house - the one we use most often. So I can't escape it!
Question for today: If money were no object, what one gift would you purchase for yourself?
Ok - thinking.....This question allows me to be more selfish than I like to be. It would have to be a new laptop, with 12X12 printer (part of the package) all outfitted for scrapbooking - programs, memory, etc. and it comes with a backup memory storage device as well. There - that wasn't so hard. And it really isn't something I need - just something that would be fun and nicely portable. The few times I've used DJ's laptop (work) have been really fun and had I never used one - I probably wouldn't want one.
That's all for today - but get back to me on the room - I could use some ideas.
Tuesday, June 12, 2007
June 12 2007
Good morning! We're in the middle of "Table Time" - as per my summer schedule. Kimball is sorting through this year's school stuff (all the stuff she brings home I put in a little basket for her) - deciding on what to take pictures of and what to just toss. When you have pictures of everything - you can put several things on a page - and then she can look through and remember without me having binders and boxes full of stuff I don't want her to go through. I've also got bins for the little ones that I put their art creations in - and handouts from church, etc. Makes things manageable.
Mckay is busy cutting things out - a fairy room and decorations - Thanks to Family Fun web site. Printables! Taylor and Hinckley are looking at sister's things - but usually spend the time drawing or coloring.
After table time (45 minutes) - they go outside for about 45 minutes to just play. After that we have story time - where I or Kimball read to the others (30 minutes). Then we have cooking time - Kimball's recipie book in progress. Yesterday was brownies. Today - not sure yet. That takes a while - so after that we go to the park and have lunch. The girls play and I enjoy. When we get home - it's time for my rest. We're phasing out naps because that seems to be the natural next step for the little ones - helps get them to bed on time! So they just play with their toys while Kimball and Mckay have school and keep an eye on things. That lasts a couple of hours - then we have clean up time - 20 minutes usually does it! Then it's cartoons for about an hour then dinner prep/chores for another hour. Daddy is home after dinner is done. That's our day in a nutshell. Oh - and I forgot we start all this with our Wake-up CD that gets them dressed, groomed, beds made, and teeth brushed (after breakfast).
My laundry- back room is in a state of remodel. Not that I'm doing much - I'm just getting real excited about doing something. I'll be starting a bit of moving stuff around today. Well I did move something yesterday - but I want to feel like I'm making progress.
Question/Comment for today: Would you feel unfaithful if you had frequent fantasies about someone other than your partner? If your partner were having such fantasies, would you want to know about it?
In short - YES to the first question and NO to the second. Of course I think having fantasies about someone else is unfaithful! I'm talking about fantasies - not crazy strange dreams while your asleep that you aren't in charge of. However if you are having dreams about the same person for an extended period of time - you need to look for a cause for that. And it's my opinion that the dreams of pregnant women can be especially strange - all those hormones! If my partner were having fantasies - I'd feel like that was his issue to deal with and I wouldn't want to know because why worry about something you have no control over! That said - thoughts lead to actions - so the thoughts need to stop before they get to that point. I think once they cross the line from thought to action you must be told. But to tell someone about something that is not over is not helpful either! Just stop those thoughts! Yikes!
I need something to pick the mood up here....
Another quote from Helping and Healing our Families....
p. 208 - Modesty is a way of living and behaving, as well as of choosing clothing. Our choices reflect what we worship and what our hearts are set upon. The Lord, through the prophet Isaiah, said, "For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways...For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts." (Isaiah 55:8-9).
That's a better note to end on! Have a good day!
Mckay is busy cutting things out - a fairy room and decorations - Thanks to Family Fun web site. Printables! Taylor and Hinckley are looking at sister's things - but usually spend the time drawing or coloring.
After table time (45 minutes) - they go outside for about 45 minutes to just play. After that we have story time - where I or Kimball read to the others (30 minutes). Then we have cooking time - Kimball's recipie book in progress. Yesterday was brownies. Today - not sure yet. That takes a while - so after that we go to the park and have lunch. The girls play and I enjoy. When we get home - it's time for my rest. We're phasing out naps because that seems to be the natural next step for the little ones - helps get them to bed on time! So they just play with their toys while Kimball and Mckay have school and keep an eye on things. That lasts a couple of hours - then we have clean up time - 20 minutes usually does it! Then it's cartoons for about an hour then dinner prep/chores for another hour. Daddy is home after dinner is done. That's our day in a nutshell. Oh - and I forgot we start all this with our Wake-up CD that gets them dressed, groomed, beds made, and teeth brushed (after breakfast).
My laundry- back room is in a state of remodel. Not that I'm doing much - I'm just getting real excited about doing something. I'll be starting a bit of moving stuff around today. Well I did move something yesterday - but I want to feel like I'm making progress.
Question/Comment for today: Would you feel unfaithful if you had frequent fantasies about someone other than your partner? If your partner were having such fantasies, would you want to know about it?
In short - YES to the first question and NO to the second. Of course I think having fantasies about someone else is unfaithful! I'm talking about fantasies - not crazy strange dreams while your asleep that you aren't in charge of. However if you are having dreams about the same person for an extended period of time - you need to look for a cause for that. And it's my opinion that the dreams of pregnant women can be especially strange - all those hormones! If my partner were having fantasies - I'd feel like that was his issue to deal with and I wouldn't want to know because why worry about something you have no control over! That said - thoughts lead to actions - so the thoughts need to stop before they get to that point. I think once they cross the line from thought to action you must be told. But to tell someone about something that is not over is not helpful either! Just stop those thoughts! Yikes!
I need something to pick the mood up here....
Another quote from Helping and Healing our Families....
p. 208 - Modesty is a way of living and behaving, as well as of choosing clothing. Our choices reflect what we worship and what our hearts are set upon. The Lord, through the prophet Isaiah, said, "For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways...For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts." (Isaiah 55:8-9).
That's a better note to end on! Have a good day!
Monday, June 11, 2007
June 11 2007
What a weekend. Our fishing outing kind of flopped - but we did get the Van sold on Saturday - and had a lovely picnic where the ducks were chasing us for food. Here's a pic:
Like I mentioned - we sold the Van - for a bit less than we hoped - but having it sold is feeling really good. Well, sort of.....We got a phone call at 10:48 pm last night - from the Oregon State Police :) DJ got it - and they had gotten a call from someone who reported the van as abandoned - it having no plates on it (in Idaho you have to apply for your own plates - they don't come with the car) - and stuck somewhere having done some "road damage" - not sure what that means. I'd already mailed the release of liability form - on Saturday and we had made a copy of the bill of sale for ourselves - so we were able to give them the new owner's name, address, and phone number. Not sure what will happen with that......Just hoping that it doesn't involve us!
Oh - and for those following our progress on the Dave Ramsey Program - we used the proceeds of the van sale to fund the basic emergency fund and the rest to pay down debt. That's feeling like some traction!
Yesterday was a recovery day for me - spent most of the day in bed. I still haven't figured out how to do everything I think I need to do and have energy left for the weekend. I told the girls this morning that Mommy could do all the cleaning and picking up - or she could do some fun stuff if they helped out. We'll see what that brings....
Question for today: What would you attempt to do if you knew you could not fail?
Very good question. Initial response - Climb Everest! However the question does not imply ease of the way in the promise of not failing - so I think I'll think some more. It really made me think about the things that we try to do with no guarantee of success - parenthood being primary in my mind. Life doesn't come with guarantees - except one: You're going to die at the end of it. We just try to enjoy the jouney the best we can. I'm going to have to think a bit to answer that question better. Any dreams anyone else has that are just held back by uncertainty? I could use a dream or two.
Have a great day, everyone!
Saturday, June 09, 2007
June 9 2007
Saturday! DJ is cleaning out the shed today and I couldn't be more pleased! I'm giving him his space for now - but I'll have to check soon to make sure enough stuff makes it into the trash bin. Today is free fishing day in Idaho - so we're planning on getting a bit of fishing in. Maybe after lunch....
Another link or two for you: http://www.free-ed.net/free-ed/Math/PreAlg01/ Kimball mentioned that they had done order of operations and a couple of other pre-algebra things just at the end of the year - so I found this site - and we're going to keep going! We have a few different math sites - but one is enough for today. Here's a geography site: http://www.nationalgeographic.com/resources/ngo/education/ideas.html
I'll put a couple more links on next week. A line from the Red-Green Show comes to mind - "I'm pulling for you! We're all in this together!"
Question/Comment for today: What one Christmas tradition would you never want to give up?
I could think of several that seem to define the season for me. However, if I'm limited to one - and only one it would have to be the reading of the Christmas story from the Bible - and supplemented with the account in the Book of Mormon. When I was in Primary - they talked about getting to the point of things - and used a bulls-eye to demonstrate this as they taught us how to teach. Further out - on the edges of the big circle were several things - and as you got in closer - the points (or items) got fewer and fewer until you got right to the center - the main point you wanted to get across (the principle if you will) - and if you said nothing else - you should say that! I guess that is what the Christmas story is for me at Christmas time - the center of the bulls-eye.
Have a great day - and if it gets too hot - just remember how cool/cold it is at Christmas time - and be glad for today!
Another link or two for you: http://www.free-ed.net/free-ed/Math/PreAlg01/ Kimball mentioned that they had done order of operations and a couple of other pre-algebra things just at the end of the year - so I found this site - and we're going to keep going! We have a few different math sites - but one is enough for today. Here's a geography site: http://www.nationalgeographic.com/resources/ngo/education/ideas.html
I'll put a couple more links on next week. A line from the Red-Green Show comes to mind - "I'm pulling for you! We're all in this together!"
Question/Comment for today: What one Christmas tradition would you never want to give up?
I could think of several that seem to define the season for me. However, if I'm limited to one - and only one it would have to be the reading of the Christmas story from the Bible - and supplemented with the account in the Book of Mormon. When I was in Primary - they talked about getting to the point of things - and used a bulls-eye to demonstrate this as they taught us how to teach. Further out - on the edges of the big circle were several things - and as you got in closer - the points (or items) got fewer and fewer until you got right to the center - the main point you wanted to get across (the principle if you will) - and if you said nothing else - you should say that! I guess that is what the Christmas story is for me at Christmas time - the center of the bulls-eye.
Have a great day - and if it gets too hot - just remember how cool/cold it is at Christmas time - and be glad for today!
Friday, June 08, 2007
June 8 2007
Good Afternoon! We went to a local park and had lunch. Some organization sponsors a lunch program for kids - and has lunch at the park every weekday. It really fit the bill for today - a bit of exercise and the kids played with some friends. Wonderful time!
Question/Comment for today: What one thing made you fall in love with your partner?
Well, as I've said - we were friends first. What probably made us fall in love was the great feeling we had when we were together. We both had felt "different' - probably like most people feel, I don't know....but when we were together we felt more normal. I don't think that's the same thing as "completing each other" - but we definately compliment each other. Sometimes we forget this because we're so used to working well together. As Grandpa mentioned - we helped with fixing a window at their house. I was so glad Grandma thought to ask us to help. I got things figured out and DJ found the tools we needed and provided the strength that I lacked.
I'm sure DJ's sparkley eyes helped too - a bit miscevious :)
Have a great Friday, everyone! I hope to catch up reading everyone's blogs tomorrow....kind of took the week off...:)
Question/Comment for today: What one thing made you fall in love with your partner?
Well, as I've said - we were friends first. What probably made us fall in love was the great feeling we had when we were together. We both had felt "different' - probably like most people feel, I don't know....but when we were together we felt more normal. I don't think that's the same thing as "completing each other" - but we definately compliment each other. Sometimes we forget this because we're so used to working well together. As Grandpa mentioned - we helped with fixing a window at their house. I was so glad Grandma thought to ask us to help. I got things figured out and DJ found the tools we needed and provided the strength that I lacked.
I'm sure DJ's sparkley eyes helped too - a bit miscevious :)
Have a great Friday, everyone! I hope to catch up reading everyone's blogs tomorrow....kind of took the week off...:)
Thursday, June 07, 2007
June 7 2007
It's after 5 - and I'm finally blogging for today. It's going to take a couple of days to recover from the quick trip. I think I got about 5 hours of sleep this morning into the afternoon - after going to bed at 2 AM and getting up about 8:30 this morning. Had to go get Kimball and Mckay. Thank goodness for Cory and Jared! They offered to watch the other little ones as well but I didn't think that would be a good idea - those little ones can be fussy! So we're all home and doing good.
Question/Comment for today: When a woman behaves like a man, why can't she behave like a nice man? -- Dame Edith Evans.
This is why women should behave like women - when we behave otherwise we're not nice. And when we're nice - we can be very nice!
Sorry it's short - but at least I did something! Have a nice evening!
Question/Comment for today: When a woman behaves like a man, why can't she behave like a nice man? -- Dame Edith Evans.
This is why women should behave like women - when we behave otherwise we're not nice. And when we're nice - we can be very nice!
Sorry it's short - but at least I did something! Have a nice evening!
Wednesday, June 06, 2007
June 6 2007
Good Morning! I'm writing from Utah! Grandma Jo and I left the little girls and the guys here and went to see my newest niece and nephew last night. It was such a wonderful time - and those babies are so sweet.
Question/Comment for today: What particular sound annoys you the most?
Screaming girls. That would have to be the current answer - because it means I need to check on them and make sure everything is ok. How about you?
Have a great day!
Question/Comment for today: What particular sound annoys you the most?
Screaming girls. That would have to be the current answer - because it means I need to check on them and make sure everything is ok. How about you?
Have a great day!
Tuesday, June 05, 2007
June 5 2007
It's raining here! Since we haven't had rain recently - it's really nice to have it today! Yesterday's soap session went well - and today has further adventures for us. We have a road trip - just a little one - but DJ's company needs to get some cabinets so we're off to go get them. We hope to get to check on Grandpa Gene while were out and about (cabinets in Salt Lake) - and then we'll be comming home tomorrow! I dislike the quick trips - but DJ driving on his own....not good. Unfortunately, in order to have space in the burb for the cabinets - we are leaving 2 children with Jared and Cory :( I know they will have a fun time too, though.
I almost forgot - breakfast burrito's - I had a link for the recipie back a while - basically you have cream cheese, raisins, cinnamon, brown sugar - mix it then spread a tablespoon or two on a tortilla - top with thin slices of apple and wrap up - oh so tasty! Last night I made egg mcmuffins for dinner - they are Kimball's favorite currently. I even made the biscuts from scratch (yep - a big bag of scratch in my basement :)) - DJ was so impressed with how good they were - I'll probably get to make them more often. This morning I'm trying out a raisin bread recipie. If it's good - I'll post it here!
Question/Comment for today: For $1 million would you be willing to never again see or talk to your best friend?
Even though I have my girlfriends, I consider DJ my best friend. We were friends before anything else - and that helps us through some of the tough times. I wouldn't do it! We heard about a woman who lost her husband, and 3 sons and now just has a daughter left. We always hope that "they" had life insurance - but missing out on that companionship is really tough - even with the eternal perspective!
Another acquaintance joked - "I tell my wife - Try to look sad at the funeral" - implying that he had significant provisions made for his demise. I don't think that wife will have to try to look sad. Friendship is worth more - no matter what the dollar amount mentioned.
Have a great day!
I almost forgot - breakfast burrito's - I had a link for the recipie back a while - basically you have cream cheese, raisins, cinnamon, brown sugar - mix it then spread a tablespoon or two on a tortilla - top with thin slices of apple and wrap up - oh so tasty! Last night I made egg mcmuffins for dinner - they are Kimball's favorite currently. I even made the biscuts from scratch (yep - a big bag of scratch in my basement :)) - DJ was so impressed with how good they were - I'll probably get to make them more often. This morning I'm trying out a raisin bread recipie. If it's good - I'll post it here!
Question/Comment for today: For $1 million would you be willing to never again see or talk to your best friend?
Even though I have my girlfriends, I consider DJ my best friend. We were friends before anything else - and that helps us through some of the tough times. I wouldn't do it! We heard about a woman who lost her husband, and 3 sons and now just has a daughter left. We always hope that "they" had life insurance - but missing out on that companionship is really tough - even with the eternal perspective!
Another acquaintance joked - "I tell my wife - Try to look sad at the funeral" - implying that he had significant provisions made for his demise. I don't think that wife will have to try to look sad. Friendship is worth more - no matter what the dollar amount mentioned.
Have a great day!
Monday, June 04, 2007
June 4 2007
Back to work! Well, summer work at any rate. Kimball is reading stories to the little ones - and I have a couple of gals comming over to learn how to make soap this morning. Should be a good day! Also - enjoying the Breakfast Burrito's again - went shopping this weekend and got my tortillas and apples. They just aren't the same without the apple.
I should post a link that Kimball will be exploring - Here's the first one: http://www.history.com/games.do
It took a couple of times to load it - but it has a game called Time Lord. I'm sure there are other things to explore and find on this site as well - we just haven't explored it much yet!
Well, the question/comment today is interesting: What sane person could live in this world and not be crazy? --Ursula LeGuin
So, so true! I think we all have to be a little crazy to survive this experience. Psychologists have a term - cognitive dissonance. It refers to the sense of unease that exists when our expectations don't match reality or what we experience. We all feel this at one time or another - but I think the trick is to keep the expectations flexible - thus limiting that feeling. That's not the politically correct thing to say - we are supposed to believe that we can do or be anything we want when that really is not the case. If nothing else - we do have the limitations of physics - science in generally really. Like you can't breathe in outer space....or underwater without the proper equipment.
Funny little story....illustrating this - Yesterday our nursery closet was broken into by the previous ward. The scoundrels were after the treats. Never mind that their closet already had treats....they jimmied the door that was padlocked. Our dear nursery coordinator was livid! She discovered this after they had left - so had no one to confront. Add to this that she is large with child - and you can imagine the situation. DJ was a witness - I was not. After he told me about it (in Sunday School class) I went down to visit with her and make sure she had calmed down. She was experiencing cognitive dissonance. She had calmed down and I had just enough inspiration to suggest that regardless of who was the instigator, what they had done, etc....She could feel better by just deciding to submit the next treat receipt to the offending ward. Simple solution! She didn't really believe that it would work - but I assured her it would - and then they wouldn't have to worry about who ate what treats! It got her thinking in a different way - and that was enough.
This is the dissonance that can be hardest to overcome - trying to understand or make sense (or even change) someone else's behavior. You just can't do it. Only they can. So - change your thinking and reduce your cognitive dissonance today!
Make it a great day everyone!
I should post a link that Kimball will be exploring - Here's the first one: http://www.history.com/games.do
It took a couple of times to load it - but it has a game called Time Lord. I'm sure there are other things to explore and find on this site as well - we just haven't explored it much yet!
Well, the question/comment today is interesting: What sane person could live in this world and not be crazy? --Ursula LeGuin
So, so true! I think we all have to be a little crazy to survive this experience. Psychologists have a term - cognitive dissonance. It refers to the sense of unease that exists when our expectations don't match reality or what we experience. We all feel this at one time or another - but I think the trick is to keep the expectations flexible - thus limiting that feeling. That's not the politically correct thing to say - we are supposed to believe that we can do or be anything we want when that really is not the case. If nothing else - we do have the limitations of physics - science in generally really. Like you can't breathe in outer space....or underwater without the proper equipment.
Funny little story....illustrating this - Yesterday our nursery closet was broken into by the previous ward. The scoundrels were after the treats. Never mind that their closet already had treats....they jimmied the door that was padlocked. Our dear nursery coordinator was livid! She discovered this after they had left - so had no one to confront. Add to this that she is large with child - and you can imagine the situation. DJ was a witness - I was not. After he told me about it (in Sunday School class) I went down to visit with her and make sure she had calmed down. She was experiencing cognitive dissonance. She had calmed down and I had just enough inspiration to suggest that regardless of who was the instigator, what they had done, etc....She could feel better by just deciding to submit the next treat receipt to the offending ward. Simple solution! She didn't really believe that it would work - but I assured her it would - and then they wouldn't have to worry about who ate what treats! It got her thinking in a different way - and that was enough.
This is the dissonance that can be hardest to overcome - trying to understand or make sense (or even change) someone else's behavior. You just can't do it. Only they can. So - change your thinking and reduce your cognitive dissonance today!
Make it a great day everyone!
Sunday, June 03, 2007
June 3 2007
Happy Anniversary to us! Well - that's probably the big thing on our mind this weekend. We're just getting ready for church. It's going to be a great Sunday (psyching myself for the adventure with the girls).
Question/Comment: What loneliness is more lonely than distrust? -- George Eliot
So true! When you feel like you can trust someone - and then are shown otherwise - that is a terribly lonely feeling. I think we each need others to share with - especially us women.
Well, time is short this morning - so I'll leave it at that. I'm so glad that I've had the last 12 years with you, DJ! You've made the journey a lot funnier and been an all around great companion! Thanks for being my love!
Question/Comment: What loneliness is more lonely than distrust? -- George Eliot
So true! When you feel like you can trust someone - and then are shown otherwise - that is a terribly lonely feeling. I think we each need others to share with - especially us women.
Well, time is short this morning - so I'll leave it at that. I'm so glad that I've had the last 12 years with you, DJ! You've made the journey a lot funnier and been an all around great companion! Thanks for being my love!
Saturday, June 02, 2007
June 2 2007
What a wonderful date last evening! The best part was not worrying about the kids at all - they were safe with Grandma - and we heard she had quite the workout when we picked them up this morning....a poopy diaper and another vomiting! We had a nice dinner at a local mexican restaurant - complete with our favorite drink - Horchata! It's a ricey drink. Anyway - then we wandered around exploring some new stores and ended up at the drive in watching Blades of Glory. It seemed the best movie out there to see this weekend - and drive ins are such fun! DJ especially enjoyed the movie - I enjoyed it as well, but not as much as he did. I guess I've tortured him with hours and hours of figure skating over the years and it was a welcome laugh at the sport! Thanks especially to Spencer for recommending the movie! I know not everyone would appreciate it - but that's whats so fun about dating - and finding someone who appreciates things similarly to yourself - and who you feel comfortable laughing out loud around.
My girls are doing well - no more sickies...They were outisde a little long and might be just a bit pink - despite the sunscreen applied. They are tired and will be in bed soon. It was amazing to hear how quiet the house was without the girls - and how well it stayed clean! I felt like it was just a little preview of life ahead - and there is hope!
Question/Comment today: But who is to guard the guards themselves? --Juvenal (Decimus Junius Juvenalis) (55-130), Satires
This would be a good question for our family lawyers to address - the various checks and balances in the system and the efficacy of those. With an eternal perspective - we know we never act unobserved. God is watching over all - and as the ultimate judge - can be truly fair and merciful. When we internalize this - I think we lose some of the feelings that make us want to judge others, their actions and motivations. We need to be wise in our decisions - and sometimes others actions must influence our decisions - but leaving things in God's hands leave our hands free to do his work.
That makes me think of a great quote I like - not sure who it's by.....With thoughtless and impatient hands we tangle up the plans the Lord hath wrought. And when we cry in pain he saith "Be quiet, man, while I untie the knot." - I looked it up to make sure I got it right and it was quoted by Elder Packer in '79 - and listed as anonymous. I really like that quote, though.
Make it a good Sabbath tomorrow - and let the Lord untangle things while you quietly enjoy the Sabbath.
My girls are doing well - no more sickies...They were outisde a little long and might be just a bit pink - despite the sunscreen applied. They are tired and will be in bed soon. It was amazing to hear how quiet the house was without the girls - and how well it stayed clean! I felt like it was just a little preview of life ahead - and there is hope!
Question/Comment today: But who is to guard the guards themselves? --Juvenal (Decimus Junius Juvenalis) (55-130), Satires
This would be a good question for our family lawyers to address - the various checks and balances in the system and the efficacy of those. With an eternal perspective - we know we never act unobserved. God is watching over all - and as the ultimate judge - can be truly fair and merciful. When we internalize this - I think we lose some of the feelings that make us want to judge others, their actions and motivations. We need to be wise in our decisions - and sometimes others actions must influence our decisions - but leaving things in God's hands leave our hands free to do his work.
That makes me think of a great quote I like - not sure who it's by.....With thoughtless and impatient hands we tangle up the plans the Lord hath wrought. And when we cry in pain he saith "Be quiet, man, while I untie the knot." - I looked it up to make sure I got it right and it was quoted by Elder Packer in '79 - and listed as anonymous. I really like that quote, though.
Make it a good Sabbath tomorrow - and let the Lord untangle things while you quietly enjoy the Sabbath.
Friday, June 01, 2007
June 1 2007
Friday!!!! Since our anniversary is this weekend, we have arrangments made with DJ's mom to watch the girls this evening so we can do something - dinner, wandering, maybe a movie.... I'm really looking forward to it! Today is also the last day for the yucky medicine I've been on for 2 weeks (for the itchies). I'm hoping the new itchies go away soon! I continue to be amazed as the Lord teaches me to be grateful for the blessings which I take so for granted. Like being able to walk barefoot in my house without my feet feeling like they're on fire :) Yep - never thought about that being a blessing before!
This morning we are headed to Kimball's school - she has tied with another student for top student in her class. We are so pleased with how well she does - and have such big plans to keep her busy for the summer. I'll try to post some links on here - in case anyone else is looking for summer stuff. We are also participating in the summer reading program (of course!) and even went to a meeting for gifted students (and parents) last night. They hope to get something started locally over the summer into next year. That will be really nice for us.
Little Update: I got the package ready for Noah, Ellie, and Kylie - and put it in my mailbox - it barely fit so the door didn't close - so it got wet when the sprinklers came on :( But just the outside of it - so I'm re-packaging and hope to get it off today! Mckay thought the things we got together looked so fun she wanted me to get some ready for her. That's a sign of success to me.
Also - got a call from Isaac. I've been looking for 2 quart jars to finish off the tops of my cabinets (display) - and he had found some at their local DI. I was so surprised and pleased he had thought of me! So - probably the next time I see my parents I'll get the jars. What a blessing not to have to look for those anymore!
Question/Comment for today: Should animals be used for medical research?
The first thing that comes to mind is a line from Fiddler on the Roof - "Is their a proper blessing for the Tsar?" - to which the Rabbi responds - "Of course. May the Lord bless the Tsar.....and keep him far away from us!" I'm not sure I can explain why that comes to mind - but I'll try. I do think animals should be used for medical research - they were put here for our use. There are probably things we use them to "research" that are inapproriate too. I guess I was thinking of the law of sacrifice in the Bible - and how the priest would say a prayer or blessing on the sacrifice. I think that would be an interesting twist on how we currently research - really decide what we need to use them to test and then bless them for their contribution. Hey - this is just off the top of my head this morning. ....
I think more importantly - we as consumers need to be aware of the various effects the medicines and chemicals we use daily have on us. The list of side effects for any given medication is enough to give one pause! If we're trying to life a pain-free life that probably isn't the goal we should have. Pain does have it's place and can teach us many things. I think I've seen conference talks about this topic. This doesn't mean we need to be in constant pain. We are given one day in seven to rest from our labors after all! That said, I am probably one of the first to pop a Tylenol when I get a headache. Life does have to go on and there are things we have to do (especially when we have small children). I am just going to think a little more before I start some medicine that is taking care of one problem - to make sure it won't start a worse problem! Balance! That word applies to so many things. If my pain is managable - I don't need to take something to pickle my liver! Yes- I worry about pickling my liver a lot - because I take medicine on a daily basis.
Cheers to the good life - with and without pain - all of it!
This morning we are headed to Kimball's school - she has tied with another student for top student in her class. We are so pleased with how well she does - and have such big plans to keep her busy for the summer. I'll try to post some links on here - in case anyone else is looking for summer stuff. We are also participating in the summer reading program (of course!) and even went to a meeting for gifted students (and parents) last night. They hope to get something started locally over the summer into next year. That will be really nice for us.
Little Update: I got the package ready for Noah, Ellie, and Kylie - and put it in my mailbox - it barely fit so the door didn't close - so it got wet when the sprinklers came on :( But just the outside of it - so I'm re-packaging and hope to get it off today! Mckay thought the things we got together looked so fun she wanted me to get some ready for her. That's a sign of success to me.
Also - got a call from Isaac. I've been looking for 2 quart jars to finish off the tops of my cabinets (display) - and he had found some at their local DI. I was so surprised and pleased he had thought of me! So - probably the next time I see my parents I'll get the jars. What a blessing not to have to look for those anymore!
Question/Comment for today: Should animals be used for medical research?
The first thing that comes to mind is a line from Fiddler on the Roof - "Is their a proper blessing for the Tsar?" - to which the Rabbi responds - "Of course. May the Lord bless the Tsar.....and keep him far away from us!" I'm not sure I can explain why that comes to mind - but I'll try. I do think animals should be used for medical research - they were put here for our use. There are probably things we use them to "research" that are inapproriate too. I guess I was thinking of the law of sacrifice in the Bible - and how the priest would say a prayer or blessing on the sacrifice. I think that would be an interesting twist on how we currently research - really decide what we need to use them to test and then bless them for their contribution. Hey - this is just off the top of my head this morning. ....
I think more importantly - we as consumers need to be aware of the various effects the medicines and chemicals we use daily have on us. The list of side effects for any given medication is enough to give one pause! If we're trying to life a pain-free life that probably isn't the goal we should have. Pain does have it's place and can teach us many things. I think I've seen conference talks about this topic. This doesn't mean we need to be in constant pain. We are given one day in seven to rest from our labors after all! That said, I am probably one of the first to pop a Tylenol when I get a headache. Life does have to go on and there are things we have to do (especially when we have small children). I am just going to think a little more before I start some medicine that is taking care of one problem - to make sure it won't start a worse problem! Balance! That word applies to so many things. If my pain is managable - I don't need to take something to pickle my liver! Yes- I worry about pickling my liver a lot - because I take medicine on a daily basis.
Cheers to the good life - with and without pain - all of it!
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