31 Oct 2007

Happy Halloween! You'll have to wait until tomorrow for pictures of the costumes. I'll try to post pictures of the Halloween treats again today:

I had so much fun making the cookies - and getting the packages ready. Unfortunately, a trip to the doctor last night convinced me that I'm not up to going to the class today - so I dropped everything off at another mom's house. She's going to do the party for me. We'll see about the trunk or treat tonight.....

Thought for today: Isaiah 52:7 How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him that bringeth good tidings, that publisheth peace; that bringeth good tidings of good, that publisheth salvation; that saith unto Zion, Thy God reigneth!

Such a better thought than the traditional : Trick or Treat, Smell my Feet, Give me something good to eat! Have a safe evening!

30 Oct 2007

Good Morning! I'm off to an early start today. Got the treat bags made for tomorrow. I have pictures to post - but blogger isn't cooperating today :( Maybe tomorrow. I can't think of much else to say....

Thought for today: 3 Nephi 15:12 Ye are my disciples; and ye are a light unto this people, who are a remnant of the house of Joseph.

Make your world a bit brighter today!

29 Oct 2007

Sorry for the break - but I'm back for now. Had a real nice weekend at Rexburg. Wish we had more time to stop and see everyone! Thanks for the comments on the party - I'm hoping it will go well. I have a fun picture to share with you today:

It's the Rexburg Idaho Temple! There was a gorgeous harvest moon out - and we had to take a picture that showed both. I just posted the picture as we took it - no fiddling at all! Also - have to put a pic of the birthday boy:

He had a wonderful birthday. Thanks again mom and dad for making it such a great weekend!

So today I'm working on more file folders - for Mckay's class. I'm colorizing them in PE. It's so much fun - I think I'll print out a copy for us to keep! I'm going to put pictures of those, the bag toppers and Kimball's costume on probably later this week. Have to show all the crazy fun we've been having.

Well, on to the thought: Doctrine and Covenants 93:36 The Glory of God is intelligence, or, in other words, light and truth.

So many scriptures on education! It really is important, though. I think I was speaking Spanish in my dream last night. Not that I remember much this morning! Anway, Have a great day!

24 Oct 2007

Thanks for the well wishes on the concert! I've heard stories of a legendary performance he did at the Y some many years ago, afterwhich he was asked not to come back. Don't know if it's true or not...But we are pretty excited!
I've been finding ideas for McKay's class Halloween party. The teacher won't be there - she's off to Hawaii. She's not into Halloween and the sub doesn't do Halloween either. I know the kids like Halloween...and I get to be the parent to do the party. Lucky me...
Already I'm feeling some stress about meeting various expectations. I did email my plans to the teacher and she said they sounded fine - just to keep it low key and fun. Right - low key with Kindergarteners! When I've got everything ready then I can forget about it until the day comes. So much to do this week - still need to fix Kimball's Abagail Adams costume. History Halloween for 5th grade and all...

Today I have to focus and get a wedding card made and some other cards of VTing. The month is running out and since my partner prefers Sunday visits - doesn't look like they'll get done. So - I'll run some cards around and feel like I've done something!

We're heading to the temple tonight! I'm relieved that today has finally come. I know it's always a tough day or two before we actually go - attempts to discourage us and all....Anway. I almost made some black bat cookies today - but caught myself in time before my hands were stained black - not a good thing just before attending the temple.

Thought for today: Ephesians 5:33. Nevertheless let every one of you in particular so love his wife even as himself; and the wife see that she reverence her husband.

Good stuff. Have a good afternoon, evening, whatever!

22 Oct 2007

So the day is about over. It's been pretty good - a slow start and then some things that really needed done. I did get some good rest. I think I've been grouchy because I've had sugar. It really seems to affect me - and I convince myself every now and then that it doesn't - then I get grouchy (until I get more).

So the exciting news - DJ got us tickets to the local Billy Joel concert in November! He is a long time favorite (Billy Joel) - and even though he's getting old - I am really excited to have the opportunity to see him. One of those life-long dreams.

Well, here's the thought: John 16:33 In my ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.

It's true - we have so much to be grateful for that's it's a bit crazy that we aren't always of good cheer. I think it's mostly a loss of perspective. Glad to have my perspective back today!

20 Oct 2007

I agree with Sarah - I do need a time out! I've been so grouchy today - I think I'll put myself in time out for the rest of the day! More on monday....

18 Oct 2007

Just a really quick note - I'm making tomato preserves today. Had a ton of little green tomatos and since I don't like relish or pickles...It uses tomatoes, sugar, and jello. It smells really good but is tiring me out. I won't be on to write tomorrow - crash day and all. Have a wonderful couple of days!

17 Oct 2007

So I forgot to share some more stuff.....Monday we went on a bike ride for FHE. That is everyone but me and Taylor. We walked together. She said "It's a beautiful day!" about 20 times on our walk from which I inferred that she was really happy. It was a beautiful evening, though! Also on Monday we gave away the last of our diapers - YES it's official - Taylor is POTTY Trained! She is even dry at night. We are so excited about this!!! I remember when Kimball was potty trained - then a couple of years later we had Mckay and I so felt like I was backsliding! Anyway....I'm sure many know how we feel and others can imagine. It's another passage of life.

This morning I'm getting handouts ready for Activity Days this evening. We are doing a talent show with the theme of Matthew 5:16 - Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven. I printed the scripture in Spanish and English on paper (sized just right) - then used my tag punch to turn the scripture into tags. I had seen this neat trick - and I got to use it today. You turn your punch upside down so you can see what your punching - center the words and punch! It worked great! I have little battery operated candles for each of the girls and I'll tie the tags on to those.

Kimball is having a fall party on Saturday. We're planning A Series of Unfortunate Events Theme - we'll watch the movie and have related food. She's really excited about it - and as it's from 4 to 8, I think it will be managable. DJ will be here to help, too!

Aaron - I have enjoyed the short stories. It seems like less of a comittment time wise to read. My favorite stories in the book were The Bottle Imp, The Sire de Maletroit's Door, and the Story of the Young Man with the Cream Tarts. I have another Stevenson book to read - don't remember the name right now. I'm currently in The Wandering Prince by Jean Plaidy - about Charles Stuart (exiled following his father's death). Seems like I'm learning a lot about that time in history.

So, since I've already given you a scripture for today, I'll just wish you a happy day!

16 Oct 2007

The week is going well. I have a new plan that I hope works well. Friday will be my new crash day. I will be well rested for a date night that evening. I'll let you know if it works :) I'm taking it easier in general as well. Of course, I still get an idea in mind of something that needs done right now - so I have to hop up and do it. But overall - things are going more slowly.

The sprinker blow-out guy just came. A day early - but got it done. I'm enjoying reading a book of Robert Louis Stevenson's short stories today. I hope to finish it today - got a lot going tomorrow. I'm helping in McKay's class and we have activity days in the evening.

Thought for today: Doctrine and Covenants 130:18 Whatever principle of intelligence we attain unto in this life, it will rise with us in the resurrection.

I'm glad to know that the things I've learned are still in there somewhere - that I'll remember them someday. Sometimes I feel like I've forgotten more than I ever knew ;)

Have a great day!

15 Oct 2007

I don't know how I could have forgotten to mention Julie's visit! We enjoyed seeing her and the kids on Friday afternoon. Those kids are getting so big! They played great with my kids and everyone had a good time. The funniest part was when they got an ice cream treat for dessert and ate them outside. It was rather chilly - but that didn't stop those kids from squeezing all the fun out of the day that they could. It was a really nice time. So glad that she could come!

Today - I'm busy in my Monday routine. Still working on getting a dryer (up to 4 at my house now!) going. We have one inside that is running - but the clothes aren't getting dry. Still trying to figure it out. DJ say's he'll take 2 dryers off today. That will leave me with 2 dryers. Hopefully we can get something working!

I had to make a list last night of all the little details I didn't want to forget this week. Now if I can just find the list ;)

Can't remember if I mentioned it or not - Mckay is now a bike-rider without training wheels. We're so pleased with her - and planning a family bike ride this evening as part of FHE.

Thought for today: Alma 34:32 For behold, this life is the time for men to prepare to meet God; yea, behold the day of this life is the day for men to preform their labors.

We've got today - this minute at least. We're not guarenteed tomorrow - so we better do it today. Feel the value of today!

13 Oct 2007

Well this morning has gone differently than I expected. The missionaries called and asked if our family would come to a family home evening an hour later (during the day) for a family investigating the church. They were Spanish speakers - so I think I caught the jist of the activities and lesson. DJ was helping another family move so he wasn't able to come. Kimball is friends with the daughter. Anyway - it was very different from laying around resting all day - it was a lot of fun! We played a game called Papa Caliente (hot potato) - with someone in the middle saying papa caliente, papa caliente, then something else which meant the potato burned. As they chanted the potato was passed in a circle and when they said it burned - the person holding the potato had to do what the person next to them asked them to do - pushups, acting like an animal, etc. It was a lot of fun.

Anyway - my thought today is my own reflection. This family moved here a year or so ago. Their daughter was in Kimball's class. I was helping in the classroom. The teacher asked me to take this girl into the hall and work with her on her English. She was reading to me - and I told her about the English classes and gave her a little card detailing the when and where. Her parents went to a few of the classes that DJ taught. I guess the missionaries ran into the family a bit ago and have been teaching them since. And then today we got a call to help fellowship them. I didn't know they had gone to the classes last year until today. I felt really good that something I did lead to something else. Don't know if this makes sense or not - but it was one of those great moments when you feel like a part of something bigger.

Since getting home (Kimball has her friend over to play), we walked down the street to check on another family I hadn't seen for a week. No luck - they weren't home - but we did meet another neighbor on the way home. Then we checked on an Elderly couple (he is 96 we found out today) who had an ambulance at their house earlier in the week. They are doing OK - but were so pleased when we gave them our name, address, and phone number to call if they need us. They don't have any family nearby. It just adds to my testimony when I feel the spirit of service and friendship. I don't think we really make a habit to go out of the way to be neighborly - but we do what we can and enjoy the holiday season as we have an excuse to go see our neighbors.

Have a wonderful day!

12 Oct 2007

Another dry diaper morning! I am really excited - we'll soon be done buying diapers! I know it's probably silly to be so excited about this - but those in the trenches know it takes a lot of diapers to raise 4 children.

So this weekend, we don't have too much going - I've mentioned the main things already. I'm trying to take it easy today (other than cleaning the house a bit before we see Julie and kids). Life just keeps going. I enjoyed Oprah on Monday - about sneaking vegetables into foods - featuring Jessica Seinfeld's new book - Deceptively Delicious. I'm going to try some of these recipies out - there are a few on the Oprah site: http://www2.oprah.com/foodhome/food/jseinfeld/recipes/jseinfeld_recipes_main.jhtml
Did anyone else see this? I figure I'll try a few out and if the kids like them - I'll probably get the book.

Anway - got to get back to relaxing - so here's the thought: Doctrine and Covenants 46:33 And ye must practise virtue and holiness before me continually.

Like the Energizer bunny - keep going and going and going.....
Have a great day!

11 Oct 2007

Potty training continues - and is going well. I've been busy sewing today - got the edged of the quilts bound. Yeah! So on to something else.....I got some scrapbooking books from the library and am looking forward to reading them. Guess I'll have to schedule some sitting around time!

I'm tired and it's 5:00 so I'll make this a short post. Here's a thought: Doctrine and Covenants 18:10 Remember the worth of souls is great in the sight of God.

In being kind to others - let us be kind to ourselves :)

Have a wonderful fall evening!

10 Oct 2007

It's been a nice day here - rainy but nice. Taylor had a dry diaper this morning!! Does that mean I'm letting her wear panties from now on - NO - not yet. But I feel like we're getting closer. It has really been me putting this off - just too many other things competing for my attention. I totally focused on her and Hinckley yesterday and it was wonderful. Such a "good mom" day. I do have to say that yesterday and today she did have damp panties - but didn't make any puddles. I think it's progress. And they aren't damp for long! I don't know if I'm more excited to be done with diapers with her or with my first girl. It's a real toss up - I do see how my parenting style is evolving based on circumstances and different temperments. One of those interospective times I guess.

Anyway - I'm taking it easy for the next few days. Just letting myself be in the moment - not rushing or feeling pressured. Already I'm really enjoying it. I'm starting my Christmas list - because I know I don't want to be shopping at the last minute. I know there are great deals last minute - but I hate the stress and crowds that go along with those deals. We have a family birthday party on Saturday (for the October birthdays) - and I'm mostly set with the gifts for those. 2 nephews....one 11 one 3. We're going to a corn maze for the party. That should be a lot of fun - unless the weather is iky. I've been wanting to get out to a corn maze this year.

I don't know what it is about this time of year - but it seems like I have days where my mind clears a bit even though the aches and twinges are worse. I really appreciate the fog lifting. I feel so ambitious in some ways - so relieved in others. It's just such an adventure seeing what each day will bring. The heating pad is always plugged in these days - and close at hand. I apologize for not checking to see what everyone else is up to. Just writing daily is a task for me. Anway - I'll try to catch up on everyone before the week is out.

Thought for today: Doctrine and Covenants 75:3 Behold, I say unto you that is my will that you should go forth and not tarry, neither be idle but labor with your might.

As moms, let us remember that we are indeed laboring when we snuggle and love these little ones. They need it and we do too. Our bigger ones need us to listen. As I can only do one thing at a time, sometimes I will feel like I'm not doing anything - but I am. I'm devoting my best efforts - as I've been asked to do.

Have a lovely day!

9 Oct 2007

Thank you for the compliment, Cory! I think I enjoy these things so much because it helps me feel like I haven't lost it all! Ahhhh....thinking back to my days of working as a secretary/computer tech at Ricks....I'll never know that much in proportion to what knowledge is out there as I did then.

We're potty training - and I'm more serious now. I am really tired of buying diapers and I know she can do it! I made a cute potty chart and accompanying toilet stickers (via sticker machine). It's going well today - no accidents yet! I know she wants to do it too - so we'll keep you posted!

I'm getting ready for the ward Super Tuesday tonight - I'm going to do some digital scrapping there. It will be nice to be able to visit and spend some time working on pages for ME!

Thought for today: 3 Nephi 27:27 Therefore, what manner of men ought ye to be? Verily I say unto you, even as I am.

Have a wonderful fall day!

8 Oct 2007

Wasn't conference great?!? I so enjoyed Sunday morning messages especially. I was paying the closest attention to those so that probably explains why I enjoyed those the most. I had to give the partially done anniversary scrapbook to Dan and Kaye. I'll have to finish the other pages for Christmas.

I have a couple of new favorite programs. I really love Lumapix FotoFusion! It has really simplified the huge picture project into a managable size. I will use it for the kids school pictures and precious assignments too (that huge pile of stuff that is sent home from school).

Yesterday I played with another fun program: FontCreator. I made my handwriting into a font using the program (30 day free trial!) Took a couple of hours - but time well spent so I can put my handwriting on layouts before I print the page. Gives it that personal touch! Here's something that will help you if you want to do this too: http://www.myfirstfont.com/template/characterset1.pdf It's a grid that you write individual letters in. I found the instructions on how to use the grid and the program in a back issue of Scrapbook Answers - Nov 2005. Basically - you fill in the grid, scan it (in grayscale) into your computer - open it in Photoshop (so you can select each letter individually) - and then open Font Creator. Select File then New. Name your font and leave the default settings. You'll double click on each letter in turn to import your handwritten letter. Before you begin this, click on Tools then Import Image and set smooth filter to super if you want sharp corners to be rounded. I just left it at smooth (sharp corners aren't rounded). Click on Glyph tab and set bounding to image. Select the bottom middle button (out of the 9) and enter 500 for the X position and -750 for the Y. Set the size multiplier value based on what dpi you scanned your grid in at - 600 dpi would be set at 6, 300 dpi at 12. I think I scanned at 200 so I used 14. Select the default checkbox (you want a check in it) and press cancel. The important thing is getting the settings right - you don't import through this.
Now it's just clip and paste - select your letter in Photoshop by dragging a box around it - don't select any of the bounding box though. Copy it to the clipboard by pressing Ctrl and C. Then switch to Font Creator (use alt and tab) - Paste image in cooresponding letter box (you already double clicked on) - by pressing Ctrl V. Now just adjust the size of the letter so the top is at 1400 - the bottom at the baseline. The dotted lines need to be to the right and left - they control how much space will be between your letter and the next letter in a word. There was a great little box that popped up - maybe preview that really helped me to adjust as necessary. You just continue clicking and pasting until you get your alphabet done - and any additional symbols you want. Save from time to time....always a good idea. Any letter or symbols you don't use you can remove from your font by selecting - edit then select incomplete the select edit then delete. Save the font. You're pretty much ready to go - just one last thing to do - press F5 to test the font - I found my lowercase g and y extended too far beyond what was allowed so I went back and edited that - and then I was good to go!

I know it sounds like a lot - but once you get the hang of it - it's pretty fun! Who doesn't want a font of their handwriting?!? I don't really "like" my handwriting - but I know my kids will enjoy seeing it more (knowing that it's really my writing) than something else. I'm tempted to make a font of ancestor's writing.....fancy, or even Mimi's! Wouldn't that be fun! I'm not going too crazy - just enjoying thinking about the possibilities.

Thought for today: Matthew 5:14 - Ye are the light of the world.

Make it a bright day!

3 Oct 2007

The tying is done and all I have left is binding the edges. I think I'll wait a couple of weeks before tackling that! I have a major crash weekend comming up - so if I don't post, you'll know why. Just been running too hard for too long.

A neighbor who I met at the bus stop came by last evening to ask if I could watch her son and take him to the bus today for her - she has to work. So we have an extra this morning. The fun/interesting part is that she doesn't speak much English - DJ translated for us. We're the only people she know since they moved here just a couple of months ago. I was so glad that she asked and we were able to help!

I should get busy today and get the printing of the pictures done - the new program is working like a charm! I highly recommend it for getting a bunch of stuff done in a hurry - I love the auto-arrange feature. FotoFusion is the name.

Thought for today: 1 John 5:14 - And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask any thing according to his will, he heareth us: And if we know that he hear us, whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we desired of him.

The gift of prayer! What a blessing. I loved the part of the women's broadcast where the speaker said to ask not that our tasks be equal to our abilities but that our abilities would be equal to our tasks so that our performance would be the miracle. (paraphrased greatly). That truly is my prayer daily - as my tasks always seem to be greater than my abilities. Somehow, I am able to accomplish them with the Lord's help - and it truly is a miracle.

Have a wonderful day!

2 Oct 2007

Just a quick check-in. We're in quilt central. Got the tops sewed yesterday and will be tying them today. Don't know if I mentioned - we're doing quilts for my girls for Christmas. DOn't know what I would do without Mom here helping! We're both really tired, but they will get done!

Thought for today: They who are not for me are against me, saith our God (2 Nephi 10:16).

Have a good day!