Inspiration

Comfort Found in Unexpected Places

What I am about to share will reveal some of my weaknesses. We all have some so here goes. I am a blog follower addict. I love following my friends and family, but I am addicted to the cutesy crafty blogs, the blogs that help you become a better person....etc.

Through following all of these blogs however I was becoming overwhelmed. Look at all they do, why can't I? They have children and they do all of this amazing stuff. They decorate their homes, sew clothes for their children, sew bedding for their beds, can, garden, exercise...the list goes on and continues to grow.

To be quite honest with you there are days when I am feeling good just to have my children in clean clothes and fed.(We will ignore the sticky mess in the princesses hair today, the chocolate on my little mans chin, and ugh...drool stained shirt already?)

Over Christmas my older girls were home and we were chatting. The eldest has a friend who works with the leaders that head our church. She was sharing with me how he has been asked to write an article about stay at home mom's who blog. I thought: "I sure would like to be one of those moms." Then she continued with the concerns of our leaders. She shared with me that many of these women spend 40-60 hours a week working on their blogs! They are spending the time of a full time job plus on their sites!

Now I hope not to come off as critical nor judgmental. I realize that there are people who can and do support their families with their blogs be it out of necessity or hobby. Many are in different season's of life than myself. However, as my girl was explaining this to me, I came to this realization: "I am in a season of my life that is temporary. I have been blessed with beautiful children, and a husband who can support us. I have been blessed to be able to stay home with my children and be a part of their teaching and growing. Instead of wishing it all away so I could start a cutesy crafty blog of my own, I need to enjoy what I have."

Time is a valuable gift. If wasted we can never replace it. Instead of looking at my children like they are holding me back I need to enjoy them. I need to enjoy this short time that I have to spend with them. It is okay that this is the season I am in, for before I know it I will begin another.

I'm getting the Christmas wiggles...

I am getting so excited for the Holidays! Especially Christmas! I was trying to decide what I was going to do for the girls I am over at church! I came across this tutorial and decided to give it a try!

http://homemade.tipjunkie.com/bird-nest-necklace-tutorial-2/

I apologize I am still a cave woman with some of this computer stuff. Any way I have been able to whip up a whole bunch of these. I am pumped!

On another note, I gave my little guy his first hair cut today! He looks so cute! He is growing up too fast!

I have made three sign's for A Night in Bethlehem, it is just an exciting time of year! I can hardly wait for the girls to come home for Christmas and then it will be complete. I am going to miss having the two older boys with us this year, but the nice thing about modern day technology is they are only a phone call away!

Quandries on Life

Lately I have been looking back on life and forward, and have had all these thoughts. So I thought I might share some of these thoughts with you. I will forewarn you this might be bland or a little dreary to some though It is what has been on my mind. Consider yourself forewarned.

Family dynamics is always interesting, everyone has them and every one's is different, yet we can all relate. There is enough common that we can almost always find common ground with someone else. I realize there are exceptions, there are always exceptions in life.

In the media we see so much abuse, so little respect for life, for others, it seems to always be about "me". Parents kill children because they are an inconvenience, spouses beat the other as a power trip. Parents beat children because they forget what it is like to be little, or don't want to be reminded. Sometimes there is just severe neglect, maybe a parent feels they don't have time for a child, because that child needs designer clothes. Or family is neglected because there is excitement to be found else were.

People are always effected by others choices. My children are effected by how I choose to spend my time, heck, I am effected by how I spend my time.

Looking about me I see people who are almost enslaved for whatever reason. When I look at these people it is easy for me to lose hope and faith. It is weird to me that some of these individuals that are suffering, or who have had their time on earth cut short due to the choice of another, that they may have to deal with that for a whole life time. Won't God save them? Doesn't He want better for them?

I was thinking about this this morning an I had a thought I would like to share. I would be happy if you share your own thoughts as well.

For me it is comforting to know that God's plan is so complete that He has already taken these individuals into consideration. Children who die early due to the abuse, or neglect of their parents whom they fully rely on are saved through the atonement of Christ. Those who are older and experience abuse or neglect of a spouse or someone they have trusted have also the ability to find comfort through the atonement. The atonement can not be miss used. It is to help us heal, forgive, and be forgiven. When correctly applied we can find peace and live our lives knowing there is an end to the ugliness the world seems to deem as normal.

As of yet I do not have all of the answers. I believe there are those out there who are going to be greatly surprised when they are called forth to meet their maker. However I believe also there are many who are going to find great relief and comfort when they meet their maker.

Often I have to remind myself that Heavenly Father has tailored our lives to us as individuals. The only thing he asks of us is obedience. There are days that may be harder than others. But if we turn to Him and His Son, He will help us through those hard times. He will place in our paths others who can help lift us.

It is so important to remember that faith with out works is dead. Why? Because we are His hands! If we aren't doing our part when we are able, then we are not demonstrating Faith in His plan for us. He does not expect us to move mountains. He does expect our best. Where we are lacking is where the Savior comes in and can lift us.

This may be a jumble, but it is what has been on my mind as of late. I am so thankful for the completeness of the Lord's Plan for us!

The Hustle and Bustling is about done!

What a fun filled day! Some friends of our opened a restaurant a month ago. We decided to take the children out to it for breakfast! It looks like they are doing great, they were busy as can be when we arrived and it  kept pretty steady the whole time we were there. They own the Derby Buffet in Arapaho Nebraska, if you ever happen out that way I guarantee you won't be disappointed.

Arapaho is a small town, so after filling up on good grub we decided to explore a little bit. In town they had some great mom and pop shops! I love the little treasures you can find in small town shops! We were able to sneak in a little Christmas shopping.

Later this evening we were able to pretty much tie up loose ends on our shopping lists! We have just a little stocking shopping left, but other than that we are done! Now it is just to wrapping and tying up loose ends!

Merry Christmas!

Its that time of year again!

Well, it is that time of year again! I love this time of year! A time to reflect on all we are thankful for and then a time to celebrate out Lord and Saviors birth! Christmas is my favorite holiday! I love giving gifts, and watching my children excitedly decide what they want to do for each other. Now is probably a good time to start doing the same. *sigh*

A Thankful Post

I have so many things to be grateful for, so lets get started!

1.   First I am thankful for the Savior. He lives and loves me.
2.   I am thankful for my husband! He is my perfect match, my best friends and (I wll keep this PG)
3.   I am thankful for the family I have been blessed to be a part of!
4.   I am thankful for my parents who raised me in the gospel.
5.   I am thankful for each of my siblings.
6.   I am thankful for each of the children placed in my care, be it by birth, or marriage, I am truely blessed!
7.   I am thankful that I am able to stay home with my little ones and watch their firsts and exploration of this
              world around them.
8.   I am thankful for the talents I have been blessed with.
9.   I am thankful for the many friends I have been blessed to have in my life.
10. I am thankful for the blessings of the Temple in my life.
11. I am thankful for a living prophet.
12. I am thankful for leaders who love me.
13. I am thankful for teachers who love their jobs, and the children they teach!
14. I am thankful for men and women who have sacrificed and gave their lives so I could experience the
              freedoms I have to day!
15. I am thankful for answered prayers.
16. I am thankful for inspiration in its many forms.
17. I am thankful for childrens laughter.
18. I am thankful for tender mercies.
19. I am thankful for forgivness.
20. I am thankful for my weaknesses, they remind me I am only human, and they keep me humble.
21. I am thankful for children's insight, it is enlightning, inspiring, and sometimes good for a chuckle.
22. I am thankful for flowers.
23. I am thankful for seasons.
24. I am thankful for naptime, be it for me or the little ones.
25. I am thankful for sunny days.
26. I am thankful for rainbows. They are reminders of promises made.
27. I am thankful for the records found in the Scriptures.
28. I am thankful for moments of meditation, where I can think and ponder as I wish and recieve
              personal inspiration, or revelation through the spirit.
29. I am thankful for the restoration of the gospel in our modern day, the knowledge that God indeed does
              communicate with his children and still loves us.
30. I am thankful for God's eternal plan. It is so complete!

With a Bounce in my Step...

This morning I woke up just feeling good! Feeling a little analytical I tried to figure out what made today stand out from other mornings and here is my conclusion:

It is a new day! A new slate. What I didn't do yesterday I can do today. Where I failed I can succeed.

The sun is up and so am I.

I woke up to three of my cheerful children! I am still waiting on one. The oldest at home came in and played with the baby while I got my little princess going.

Today I am just feeling incredibly blessed. I have a Savior who loves me so much he gave his life for me.

I have a family who is striving to do what is right, and loves each other along the way.

My husband is easy to adore. He is my best friend.

God has surrounded me with good people and good friends

Life is good.

I am familiar with this one... :)

A friend of mine showed me this reciently, and I thought it to be fitting this season of my life. Enjoy.

Things That Warm This Heart

1.   Seeing my children's smiling faces each morning
2.   Receiving a call from one of the girls to lift my spirits when I am down.
3.   Letters from our missionary signed with his love.
4.   A text from the oldest boy just to check on me or remind me to watch Little Ponies with his sister.
5.   Kisses from my hubby.
6.   Mischievous laughter.
7.   Hugs from my children.
8.  Watching each of our children grow and experience the world.
9.   Teachers and leaders who care for my children almost as much as I do.
10.  Reading the funnies.

These are a few of my favorite things.

BIG Things in an itty bitty Package

As I admitted we have had little varmint visitors a lot lately. Due to colder weather and living close to a field I am sure. That and our mouser cat is no longer with us. And due to alergies on my behalf, sadly we will not be replacing him any time soon. Those 14 traps I purchased last week, it turns out were an investment worth making! Up to date we have caught 10 unwelcome little guest.

That is why, this morning when I went to our computer room and noticed a fowl odor I became a little unhinged. When I first detected the smell, it was just around the computer table. As I worked on a small project for church and another for my daughter I noticed the smell getting stronger and stronger.

For any of you born in the 80's, or who have gone to beauty school, I can best describe the smell as "perm solution" after you have applied the alkaline, and then acid...or conditioner. The odor was beginning to give me a head ache.

My little man announced he had to go potty, so while he ran up to do his duty(with a heart full of song) I decided to find where the smell was coming from. We have some safty traps in the basement so the baby won't find poison, nor any of the other children for that matter.

When I realized I could not locate the safty traps, and the smell had become...lets just say... overwhelming, I decided it was time to called my hubby and asked him if he knew where our son had placed the traps. As I searched, I explained the horrid smell. After listening he suggested that if the smell was like I was describing I probably should not stick around, but it wasn't a dead mouse, it would smell like a rotting corps...(okay?)

By now as you can imagine I was quite perplexed. I ran up stairs to check on my little man. He was holding his diaper afraid to move. He had not made it to the bathroom. Bummer. When I went to help him clean up I was hit by a wall of that smell from down stairs.

(Now for any of you with weak stomachs, now is the time to discontinue reading, exit this screen now...you have been fairly warned.)

The boys diaper was the cause of all my discomfort! for the last few minutes I have been rattling my brain as to what I have fed that boy that could smell so horribly wrong. To be honest with you, I do not know. Whatever it was I hope not to repeat it!

Mostly I am just relieved it wasnt a dead mouse.

My grandmother joined family on the other side of the veil this morning. At 4:15 she left peacefully in her sleep. I am surprised I'm not taking this as hard as I thought I might. Maybe it is because I have had a bit over a week to prepare myself. Perhaps it has not yet sunk in. There is comfort in knowing she is no longer struggling, that she is at peace.

Last week I morned her before she was gone. There is no doubt in my heart I will be able to see her again. With that knowledge comes the fact that I will have the chance to know her better.

I am making the day a light one. Reminiscing. Pondering. Praying. Comfort in knowing there is a life after this one, in fact this life is only a season in the eternal perspective.

Moments like these...

This past month has been quite the adventure! While my grandmother remains with us her time is drawing to a close. The Dr's are astounded by her resilience which makes me proud.

Now on another note entirely different let me share some moments of adventure these past couple of weeks.

Having a cousin in the hospital was fun...for me, not her. Through our visits I was able to get to know her and my history a little bit better. With that I was also able to share some of my beliefs with her. I LOVE sharing my beliefs! Time will tell if she accepts, I truly and whole heartidly hope she will receive the blessings in store for her!

My little guy is becoming a little more independent. Not fully mind you, but a little all the same. With his independence comes my ability to spread my time out onto a bit bigger project arena. With this extended time I have been able to fill more accomplished as a mother, I don't know how to really explain it. However I will share my accomplishments.

Growing up my mother made the best homemade Chicken noodle soup! Her noodles were from scratch, she boiled the chicken all day and everything! The thought of attempting this for myself was something that I felt was pretty much overwhelming. Then a month or so ago my youngest sister posted that she had made it and it was a success. Surely I can do that I thought. So I called up my mom and asked for directions. I have made three batches since then and each gets a tiny bit better than the last!

In the six years I have been married to my wonderful husband and best friend I have made several attempts to roast pumpkin seeds. All of which I have failed. This year I googled recipes and found one that sounded good. With four children at home (plus two adults) that makes for a lot of pumpkin seeds! So, if I messed up one batch I would have plenty more to experiment with. To my surprise and pleasure the first batch turned out! As did the second batch! Is there a Molly Mo badge out there? Surely I have earned it this year!

Now onto my final two adventures!

While I was a young woman I had two pet rats. I loved them as an owner could. Tuesday I was cooking dinner and happened to look in my TV room and noticed a little guest run across my fireplace! This guest was not invited nor welcome! He ran into my wood box, and I began to freak a bit. I watched that box until my hubby returned home, but some how that little runt escaped! As soon as my hubby returned home I ran for the store. I bought 14 mouse traps! 14! When I returned home my husband humored me and between him, our teenager and myself we baited each trap with peanut butter and strategically placed them every where. Yesterday we found five of them loaded with unwelcome guest. Ugh!

Last but not least I have discovered that since I have had children my bladder isn't quite the same. If I laugh, sneeze or cough before relieving myself....well, often I am glad I live in a day and age where I have more than one pair of undies! I know, TMI. Oh well, I just wanted to share some of my recent adventures and there you have them!

Struggles

My father called me today. He is his return home from visiting my grandmother. The visit has been an emotional one for him. He went out because he was told she may not be a round much more than a month or two. That month or two has changed and turned out to be less. Today they have put her in hospice. They are expecting she wont last through the evening.

With this I am thankful for my religeon. However, it doesnt change the heavy heart. I know I will see her again, that she is going on to better places, that she will be able to check in on me any time she wants.

This doesn't change that I wish I could have seen her one more time. I wish I could be there to comfort my Dad. I wish my whole family was a little bit closer right now. Thats all.

Warm Fuzzies

My little man came in the other day when I was having a tough day. He had a huge smile and handed me this rock.

"A rock" I thought. "Yippy!"

Then he said: "Look at the rock mom, it is shaped like a heart, this is how much I love you!"

My heart melted right then.

I have a confession! I absolutely love this commercial! I could watch it over and over again! The two men look content and at ease in doing their thing. Funny thing, I thought they were guys from our era. By now you are all laughing, because you probably already knew what I just discovered. This was originality staged in 1960. I guess I crush on older guys...LOL!!! Today's technology amazes me.

I think it is because they are clean cut and confident. Their smiles are icing to that cake. Did I mention I could just watch this over and over again?

Can it really weigh that much?

So yesterday I was looking at my kitchen and broke down. We have a ceiling fan in ours (who ever came up with that should be tared and feathered...just so you know.) The fan flings greasy dust all over my cupboards, ceiling, and the overhang above my cupboards. With a little one on the loose I rarely find the time to just get the basics done...and so I decided yesterday clingy baby or not I had to clean!

I had only noticed how bad my ceiling was first. I pulled out the vacuum about a week ago and tried to suck up all the scum I could! That is when I noticed the over hang. Ugh. That over hang hung on my shoulders FOR-EV-ER! I just kept thinking: "The minute I climb up there the baby is going to start screaming and..." well, it never got done.

Yesterday I threw in the towel! I climbed up there and began to wipe things down. That is when I noticed the cupboards and fan blades(What!?! I had just cleaned those a...over a month ago...dang.) Eww! It grossed me out. Did you know that the top of my fan motor isn't fuzzy grey? Who would have known. Certainly not I, but you know what? That scrubbing paid off. Dawn dish soap has become my best friend for yet another reason! The fan motor is brass!!!(I have to change that some day, I'm not a brass fan) My cupboards shine like new, and the light...it bounces off the ceiling again! WOW!

So when all was said and done I decided to take my mama-van through the car wash (I realized it hadn't had a real bath since last summer...oops!) and today it rained...HA!

I feel like my kitchen weighs tons less, my car looks good from the street and I can take a breath...through the whole thing, the baby didn't make a peep. Nice.

Seasons

This past week my father called me to let me know my grandmother's health is deteriorating. Last August the Dr.s gave her a year to live. She has prooved that theory wrong, but through the year she has had increasing heart problems.

This past week she had a check up to see how the little engine of hers was running. When my father had called her she told him everything was going well and she was fine. Later he was talking to my uncle who is out there with her and his story was different.

The upper valve to her heart has ceased to work. The lower valve to her heart is working. Her heart is shutting down...slowly. My uncle informed my father that she doesn't go far when she finds herself out of breath and because of the poor circulation her hands and feet feel like ice. The Dr's have been impressed with her however because most people her age and condition would be in hospice by now. However she is still doing things for herself, be it knitting, making it to the ladies room, or just some basic things us whipper snappers take for granite.

My father is going to try and go out and see her before she leaves us. I might try to do the same...I don't know though. I would need to take my little ones and I don't know if that would be over whelming for her or not. I was thinking it would be fun for my children to have a last picture with her if nothing more than for memories.

Both of my grandfathers have passed on, and I have no pictures of my own of them. I have memories. My maternal grandfather was a step-grandfather, he was a carpenter. I have memories of him sneaking me into his shop and letting me hammer away on wood and nails. I remember him humoring me and cutting out the outline for a doll(Imyself had designed), and then letting me glue wood chips for hair. He left me a dresser, and toy chest and a cedar chest. Others memories fill my mind of him climbing a tall ladder with me on his shoulder. He would place me on a high branch, letting me pick cherries to my little hearts content then when I called he would come and carry me down the ladder with my cherry stained fingers and face.

My father's father didn't leave me with as many memories. However, near his death I remember being by his side. The look of a frightened child was on his face when he realized that his life was drawing to a close. I remember telling him there were other people on the other side awaiting him, to welcome him. This seemed to give him some comfort, and a couple of days later he joined those on the other side.

This life is so fragile. I think it is so easy for each of us to get caught up in being alive and the moment of living that we sometimes forget how temporal it is. Then there are times we are reminded how temporal it is and we sometimes forget this is only the beginning, for our spirits, our souls it is only a season. These are a few of my thoughts this evening.

A couple Blessings this Week

It has been a crazy week! I have had an emotional breakdown or two (and survived) along with tons of things on my to do list. I have been able to get a lot done, thanks to the help of others!

For several months we have been promising our son we would paint his room and make it move in ready. Since April to be exact. He has been extremely patient and understanding through the whole ordeal. It was beginning to look like it might be one of those projects that would go into this coming year.

A dear friend of mine was over last week and was listening to my explain all of the mounting list of reasons I have been feeling over whelmed. Upon finishing my list she promptly asked if she could help me finish my sons room. Monday she came over, helped me finish painting, tear down an old bed, and then when I had some other obligations to fulfill she moved furniture and arranged things so my sons wait would be over! The following day as I tried to express my thanks and my son's she stopped me and told me all thanks had already been expressed.

Today my hubby helped me tackle my space a little bit...I should say a lot! I need to organize it, but that will have to wait a couple more days, we have family stopping in Monday and I wanted the room to be clean. My Friend mentioned earlier is helping me come up with a plan to make my space more worker friendly, I am going to owe her big time when all is said and done. I hope she will take advantage of that in the future(not too far down the road).

Adventures in Kindergarden

My little lady started kindergarden! Can you believe it!? They grow so fast! The first couple of weeks have been adventure after adventure, week 1 a call from her teacher, week 2 a call from the school behavioral specialist, and week 3 a call from the principle.

The call from the principle caught me by surprise. My little girl had punched a little boy from another class in the eye! When the Principle probed for motive she simply told him she didn't know why, she just did it. On the way home I talked with her, I explained why we don't hit and then repeated the principles question: "why did you hit him?" Her matter of fact reply was: "Mom, the kid has big eyes, and I don't like him looking at me."

There have been times I will admit, that I have wanted to do the same thing. I have never had the guts to do it though.

I think I have my work cut out for me the next couple of years. All I want is her to be a well rounded adult who respects her peer, teachers, leaders...is that too much to ask? This week is looking good though, I haven't recieved a call yet...wish us luck!

Blessings

Oh I have to let you know how blessed I feel. My husband and I have been married for just over 6 years. In that 6 years there have been a few knocks, and even more blessings. My husband and I were talking about the forms of blessings. Some can come in the form of some sort of pain, loss or misfortune while many can be more obvious.


Today I would like to share one of my greatest blessings. My step-children. I have two older girls who love their younger siblings, when we are together they take time to read, cook and play with their younger siblings, even go for walks. I have a son who married his perfect match, together they lift one another and build up their younger siblings. My teenager is a help on a daily basis. He is very patient with his younger siblings and enjoys finding activities he can do with them.


Now you may have noticed I mentioned 4 of my 5. I have to say I received an unexpected warm fuzzie from him the other day when I read a letter that ended this way:


"oh yea. i thought of something. you are a pretty cool step-mom and people are surprised that i like you. i love you you've always been better than i thought you were. thanks for being awesome and not an evil step mother of doom. you're actually pretty darn amazing."

So now you know why my heart skipped a beat. You know why I also feel so blessed. Who wouldn't after something like that?

Weaknesses

I know I have'em. I know the purpose of them is to keep me humble, and patient with others in their weaknesses. One question though: Why am I having such a heck of a time over coming them?

Just asking.

The Joy of Shopping!

Today I took my children shopping. It was exciting, they have been saving their allowance since Christmas and it was burning holes in their little pockets!

As we walked around the store we discussed the different ways the could spend their money. I enjoyed watching how different they were in their thought processes. My little man had his heart set on a pillow pet. That is, until he found a “Cars” bean bag chair! That was it, love at first sight. Only problem was as we walked through the store he could find tons of things to add to the list. His lesson today was once your money is spent that is the end until next time. He does not regret his chair though, he sits in it quite proudly.

My daughter had also gone originally with the idea of another pillow pet. However when she saw these pillow birds, and discovered that she would have money left over for more things, well that was it! We then went to the dollar store in our neighbor hood to spend the last of her money. She found serving trays for tea parties with her friends, along with a necklace and rings that any 5 year old would go goo-goo over. Oh and lets not forget the hand held mirror we can use to prepare for those tea parties.

Her lesson was if you go for the smaller thing sometimes there is more to choose from.

Oh to be a kid again! And the joys of watching them grow!

Today...its just going to be one of those...

Have you ever looked around and felt like your life has been invaded?

Today I looked around, I saw a baby bouncer, a baby walker, a high chair, doll house, cars, baby blankets, toys, baby carrier, more toys, Kids table, kids chairs, kids rocking chairs, socks....I would go on, but I think you have the idea. I will spare you what I have not already.

It is like these things breed...like rabbits! Holy cow! I am feeling overwhelmed! Where did this all come from? When will it go? I know this is just a season, but I sure wish I had a magic wand, and things would fly into place with a bippity bop!

Oh poop.

This past weekend we went out to see family for a quick jaunt. Great times!

We met up with my family Friday evening for a picnic. Our older girls joined us. My youngest sister was there with her newest addition to her family, a beautiful baby girl. The sister in the middle was there with all of her children, along with my parents.

Saturday we went to the temple to see my brother and sister-in-laws be sealed! After which we had a mini family reunion. As most times together there were some minor injuries due to the tree swing, lots of catching up and just basking in family love.

I have to say the most memorable, or talked about part to this mini trip for me was on the trip home. Just after we left, our teenager threw up everything! Then the youngest began wailing. I tried to give him a little bit of Benadryl, but he spit more than most of it out. I didn't want to overdose him so I tried to comfort him. Finally he went to sleep. I began to smell “sick baby poo”.

After a little ways we were able to find a place to stop. We decided to eat lunch since we had pulled over. When Hubby went around to pull out the baby we were in for a big surprise! The little guy had EXPLODED! Holy Cow! He had messed up his back to his shoulder blades, all the way around to his little chest! We double teamed him, and couldn't avoid getting it on him more as we tried to work his onesie off. To be honest, I was surprised it only took 1/2 a container of wipes to clean him. Even his little belly button was not spared.

As you can see, it was a memorable trip (For more than one reason.) Oh the joys life brings to us!

Fun Found in Unexpected Activities

 Tonight our family had a blast for FHE (family home evening)! Our activity was a smashing hit!


Last night our oldest son and his wife joined us for dinner. While sitting around my daughter-in-law pulled out her laptop and showed us her and our son's late night activities from the night before. With hesitation I decided I would watch. They had video tapped our son, a shirt strategically placed over his head, eyes and nose drawn on his chin, singing to "The Peanut Butter, Jelly" song! The younger kids wanted to watch this over and over again, laughing every time.


For our activity tonight you have probably already guessed what we did. I would post the out come but don't know how to download things from my cam to the computer*. However, take my word for it that we were all rolling on the floor when all was said and done. Our Thirteen year old does some great accents, the five year old sang twinkle twinkle little star, our three year old told us about cars, my hubby sang one of "our" songs(I had drawn and old school curled mustache on him and hair parted down the middle of his chin, trust me it was great!) and my hubby had used his artistic abilities, I must say he had me looking pretty good for my section.


The little ones wanted to watch them over and over, if I can ever figure how to post them for you I will, though your imagination might be better than the actual presentation...lol.


*aka I am missing the cord and am unable to find the instruction manual.

The Title Mother

Have you ever heard the ring tone, I am sure it is from some show..."Mom, mom, mom, mama, mama,...." this goes on for 2 + minutes then the mother in frustration replies "What!?" then the child responds "Hi."? As of late I have become quite familiar with this. More than I would like. With my little man down, he is board out of his mind. My little man has decided to make his life just a bit more interesting, he needs to drive me nuts.


Someday I will miss hearing his little voice calling for me...but for the moment I would like to change my title. Can I change it to something that can be less annoying when a child is needing to do something for entertainment? Let me see...Rumpelstiltskin, Parallelepipedo, something that tongue ties the child quickly would be nice.


Just had to get that off my chest. Thank you for reading. Hope you are having a great day.

And Another Adventure Begins!

Here we are. The other day I was reminded that I am only a person, and no matter what I want for my children, I can not protect them from everything.

While out enjoying the summer, playing in the sprinklers with his big sis, my little man jumped up on our trailer. Usually my husband has the gate down, because we know how dangerouse it can be with children. For some reason or other we had forgot to put the gate down last time we used the trailer. Our little man climbed up a top it and pulled the pin. the gate crushed down on him.

Our little man let out a scream of pain, and luckily (I sould say blessedly, there was no luck involved here) a friend of ours has been helping put our fence up and he was back there to hear the gate fall and our little man scream. He rushed over and carried him in to my hubby. During this I had run to the store to get a few things, my hubby called me and asked me to hurry home.

As we assesed the situation we asked our little man if he could stand. At the attempt he cried out in pain and fell into daddys arms. My hubby decided it to be a good idea to take him to the Dr. who later sent him to the hospital. It turns out he has three fractures in his pelvic area. Poor little guy, has to stay in bed or on the couch for the rest of the summer...all of 3 weeks. He was able to come home yesterday with a walker, but we are to try to keep him down 3 weeks.

This morning he must have been feeling better, because he tried to get out of bed and cried.

It is hard being the mother sitting on the side unable to do a whole lot for your little guy. At the same time it is an honor to beable to do the little things I can to bring him comfort. *sigh*

Just had to share this with the few readers I have. I have found a lot of support through friends and family, we are very blessed. Thank you for your thoughs and prayers, we are on the road to recovery.

My Top Ten

I thought I might take a moment to list some of my most treasured blessings....here they are:

1. Goodly Parents
2. My wonderful Hubby
3. All of the children in my stewardship
4. The Gospel!
5. My Savior
6. My testimony
7. My Brother and Sisters
8. The Temple
9. The Scriptures
10. Leaders I have had in the past, present and future.

There you have it, my top ten list. Hope you have a great day!

Happy Idepencance Day!

We had a crazy 4th of July weekend! It was great though!

We went out to Utah to enjoy it with family and friends! Great memories were created! My parents neighbor caught his garage on fire, and someone caught the side of a mountain on fire. So we kept ourselves entertained with sparklers. When I figure how to down load the pictures, I will post some of our fun.

A great friend of mine gave me a makeover hair cut. My head lost about 11-12 inches of hair, it feels great! Now I just need to find where I can donate to locks of love. I enjoyed our catch up time!

The trip home was a bit crazy. My little guy hates being in the car for any great length of time, so going and returning were a bit overwhelming at times. However, we survived, the little guy survived so tali-o! Life continues forward!

Being home is the best part! It is great having my own bed and my children having their own as well. I hope everyone else had a great fun filled week as well!

A Reminder That God Thinks of me as an Individual

Here is something I read on a blog. It reminded me of 2^nd Kings chapter 6. It reminded me of many of the precious people the Lord has placed in my life. It reminded me that I am not alone in my experiencing different “races". It reminded me there are others out there who care. I hope it lifts you and I can remember this when I am feeling like I cant go any further. Read and enjoy...

“By the time I got to the last 100+ yards, I was completely overcome with emotion. And then, every now and then I'd hear my name. MY NAME.”

“Turns out some of you who I've never met were there (seriously, how cool are you?). And other people who I knew and stood along University Avenue right at the end to cheer me on and see me finish.”



“Something really interesting happens at the end of a race. You are spent and you want to quit. You might even consider stopping. Or walking the last little bit.”



“But, then you hear the cheers. And you cry. And that brings on more cheers. And then there is no way you are not going to finish...and finish strong. It's a pretty amazing feeling.”“I've thought a lot about that.”



"What would happen if every time you were faced with something difficult," I asked, "you could hear the cheers of everyone pulling for you?""What would happen if every time you stood in the face of temptation, all of heaven cheered you through it?""There is NO WAY you wouldn't get yourself to that finish line. There is no way."“It was a message I've never been able to share before in quite that way. Because I had truly never experienced it before in quite that way. It was one of the sweetest moments ever.”



“We need to be more encouraging of each other. We need to feel less awkward about acknowledging when something is hard. I wish we would allow ourselves to be more vulnerable so we are more willing to ask for support. And we certainly need to cheer louder and harder than any of the other influences in the lives of those we love.”“There is power in the cheers. And that power pushes us to do things we very well maybe wouldn't do otherwise.”“So...find someone this week to cheer on, will you?”

A Day in My Thoughts

There are times as a mother and step mother that I feel I am failing my children. Sometimes I feel like I am doing a great job and there are times like this season where I feel like I am in a dip and can't … or don't quite know how to pull myself out.

Most of the time it feels like I am just going through the motions of being a mother. I get my children ready for the day, I feed them dress them , make sure they dress themselves. If I am lucky my daughter gets her hair fixed, my sons get their hair combed or cut, and I get them off to church.

Sadly I can say there is a lot of time spent in front of the television. Too much to be precise. I justify it by saying it is educational tv. At night I rack my brain with things we could do together during the day, but it seems more often than not none of it happens. I end up nursing the baby, attempting to clean the kitchen, making an attempt to catch up on laundry, cleaning up spills...the list seems to grow.

It seems selfish wanting to do something for myself. Some sort of craft, something to help me feel accomplished.

To complain I know I shouldn't, my husband does so much for me. He gives my gym time. He tries to give me “me” time, but when I actually get it I don't even know where to start, so it turns out I get nothing done. It is like a vicious cycle of sorts. A dear friend told me it the season of life that I am in.

Don't get me wrong. I love watching my children grow. I know there are many mothers out there that would give anything to be where I am. Just at this time I am feeling over whelmed. I become more overwhelmed when I realize that in not to distant of a future I will have all of the time I could ever want on my hands, with children all in school, and then someday married.

I guess my thoughts are, how do I get the most out of NOW? I catch myself wishing it away at times, and then turn to try and hold on with my might and yet my children continue to grow, and the cycle continues to repeat its self bringing on a bit of a different dimension each round.

These are just a few of my thoughts these days that I have been able to put into words.

Little ones...

Last night my baby wanted nothing with sleep. We tried nursing and everything, he simply was not tired. It became apparent to me this was a time I could enjoy him un-interrupted. As I watched him, he discovered his toes, it was so much fun to watch him.

Children find happiness in the simplest of things. Maybe that is why we are instructed to become as children.

Some cues to this understanding are simple observances from my children. My little lady loves to go outside. Her imagination runs rampid outside! She doesn't need expensive toys, she will use a yogurt cup for a flower vase, and she doesn't need expensive flowers, the dandelions work great!

My little man just needs something with Wheels and he can play for hours. And my little guy, all he needs is his toes. I can learn so much from these guys. Now to apply what I have learned.

I need to apologize for my last blog. Life is over all good to me. I have a wonderful husband, darling children, thoughtful too, and I really should not complain. Thank you for your time and support. :)

Hope ya'll have a great day!

Birthday's

Well, it is that time of year again. I love celebrating the births of my children! I love seeing their eyes light up with each gift they open, as they blow out the candles of their cakes, and just enjoy the moment of celebration.

However, when it comes to my own birthday I hate celebrating it. Pondering this today I was trying to decide why I hate it. I really do. I can't get my husband to understand this. I don't enjoy the spot light, or any of the attention. My children come up with wonderful gifts, the eldest boy at home this time in my life made me a great shoulder bag. I received a movie, chocolates, and the printer I asked my husband for. I enjoy hearing from my parents and siblings. So why do I hate it so?

This is the most dreaded day for me. I really don't like it. I don't mind being a year older. It feels like just any other day to me. I just hate this day. Sorry.

Trials and Tribulatiuons

As of late I have a dear friend who is going through a very tough time.

In going through life we set goals for ourselves. As Latter Day Saints some of our goals are of an eternal nature. Women desire to become wives and then mothers, hoping they can keep their families for eternity. It is easy to work towards this goal to a certain degree. When we are single we only have to worry about our own actions. People can act towards us, they can violate our ability to choose, but over all we choose how to react to what life throws our way.

When we marry we bring another individual into the picture. We are trusting with our whole heart that their desires are enough like ours that we can obtain the greatest goal. Eternal life...exaltation. In our society it is beginning to seem that the trust we place in one another can be nieve(I can't think of a better word.) It is very difficult to see a companion make choises that break the covenants we have made together.

It seems that my friend mentioned earlier is going through a horrible trial in this season of her life. In an e-mail she was told her husband no longer had feelings for her. Since this e-mail she is doing all in her power to  come closer to the Lord. Prayer has become as esential as breathing. She is having a war with in her self; "has he lied this whole time?" She is questioning why she was told to go ahead with her marrage when she didn't want or desire to end up single in any way other than death (I am imagining she was hoping that would be much further down the road.)

This couple have beautiful children that are being affected by the whole thing. They have observed that their father doesn't act lovingly towards their mother. They are feeling the stress that their mother is trying to hide.

Today she stopped by and was expressing some of her fears, some of her pain, anguish, personal regrets. In seeing her pain and sorrow, I wish I could tell her this too will pass...yet the clouds seem so black at this time that is hard to see it passing easily.

I think of the scriptures. Peter trying to walk on water, then turning to the Savior. Our Savior in Gethsemeny realizing the weight of the burden he offered to bare and His Father sending him angels to sustain Him through his agony. Lehi died in his agony. Of these each of these men suffered, each turned to God and each found the comfort they seeked. However the comfort they found came on the time table of the Lord.

We have been told that we are never given a burden that the Lord doesn't think we can bare. There are times I have felt I was being crushed. I think He gives us burdens so we can turn to him with humble hearts and ask for His assistance. So He can show us how aware He is of us and how He loves us with all of the love a tender parent can offer His children.

I hope and pray that my friends shoulders will be strengthened to bare this burden she carries. I pray that she will have the strength to see the blessings the Lord has in store for her. I believe God plays favorites with his little girls. I pray she will feel of his love, and find comfort in this time of tribulation.

Do I Look Dumb...to you?

Today I had a smart looking young man come by. It turns out he is a sales man for "The Living Scriptures". Right off I let him know I was not interested. I want the scriptures to be real for my children. Not fictional. He asked me to listen to his spill so he could at least get credit for it.

The sales pitch used was something about how my children would know and understand the scriptures even better than myself...I would be able to use these videos for my family home evening lessons and discussions... if I signed up today I would get some real great bonuses!!! The bonuses all sounded great, but I would be locked into this monthly purchase for at least 4 years...no biggie, if my husband and I ever encountered problems financially they would let us have a 3-4 month window before the payments came again.

If I wasn't interested in that offer, he could sign me up for a college one where for the exact same price, minus the bonuses I could get the same contract but instead of every month for 4 years I would only be obligated to every-other month for 8 years! What a deal! Sign me up! NOT!!!

I asked the young man, if this was so much in my interest why they don't go down in price and put these in a store where I can purchase them at my leisure, my convenience. Instead of $30.00 each why not at least compete with Disney for $20 dollars each, and $15 for new releases?

Does he not realize there are so many blogs out there where you can get ideas for FHE free? Gosh, the church has a great little ditty they have added for the "Friend". At this web site they have pictures and games you can print off for FREE! Not only do they provide activities for the children, but they go along with what the children are learning in Primary. (*sigh*)With the Internet there are so many things at our disposal, and most of it free.

To say the least I was not sold. Afterwords he asked me if I would give him some names of other people he could harass. Nope. I'm not that kind of friend.

Technology can be frustrating...

After leaving a conversation with friends I had a feeling I had offended one of them. While talking to my husband about it trying to decide how to approach it and how I may have done it I decided to check my email. In my in-box was a letter from this friend. Sure enough I had offended her only for an entirely different reason than what I had thought.

When I finished reading my email I was also upset. First of all, why hadn't she called me? Last year I had a major miscommunication due to emails...ugh! For some reason when reading an email you don't know the tone of voice. Along with not knowing the tone of voice there are no facial expressions, body language or anything to read but the words alone.With that comes personal interpretation of what has been written, and then what is being read.In her letter I felt like she was ripping me a newone. So I called her up, not to be confrontational, but because I wanted her to hear what I was saying.

Seriously. I wish I had been born in the 1800's.

My Little Man

The other day while visiting my parents I happened upon the cutest little conversation between my son and... himself.

In my parents living room my mother has a curio cabinet with a mirror in the back. Off and on through our visit I would catch my son observing himself in this mirror. He would make faces of sorts and do mocking of himself it was quite entertaining to watch.

The instance I wanted to share with you happened while changing my little guys diaper, I heard my little man talking and assumed it was to his sister. However when I finished and was able to look up I caught him once again in front of the curio. With a somewhat mischievous look on his face, pointing to his reflection and back to himself he said:

" You are me and I am you, and some times we can be nau-aughty!"

Then he grinned at himself and nodded his head with a pleased sort of look. Man he has himself down to a "T" no need for me to tell him, he already knows.

Cars, Cars, Cars...

My little man is all about cars. During family business each week when asked what his business is he simply replies "cars". When it is his turn to pray you can bet he is thankful for cars and usually will ask for a certain automobile (last time it was a bus.)

He usually has a car, truck, or nonspecific toy with wheels somewhere with in reach. So it probably won't surprise you that his favorite movie is "Cars". On our DVR you will find three Team Umizoomy race episodes, one on trains and then various other children shows with similar areas of interest.

You might be wondering where I am going with this. Well last night I was with the folks, driving to dinner. My son informed me of every red light I must stop for, he is already a back seat driver. At one green light he impatiently told me I could go. I had to point out that there were still some cars in front of me who had not moved, thus our stationary position.

Out of curiosity my father turned and asked him what yellow lights meant, his reply? "It means go faster Grandpa!" I asked him who had informed him of this. He tattled on Grandma.

This boy is only two. I wonder how much he will learn between now and his driving years. I hope a lot or I suspect he will be driving a pretty beat up car. (Most of the beating will be done by him...lol.)

Un-Likely Herodom

Our family is blessed to have my husband. Brash I know, and there is more than one reason, but I am sharing just one today. When we married he was loading my things in the back of his Jeep. I remember thinking: "There is no way on earth he will be able to fit all of that into that space. I humbly admit he proved me wrong, not only did he fit the things he had, but a couple of others.

This talent has been appreciated time and time again. One of us will go to the grocery store and come home with a "little" more than planned. Where will all of this stuff go? Every time he is able to re-negotiate the space in the fridge, freezer, pantry or cupboards. It ceases to amaze me.

Once again I was amazed. In packing for a trip my daughter wanted to bring all of her little precious toys. I told her only as many as she could fit in a small tool box and lunch box. The plan was to limit her to the minimal. My bright little girl turned to her father and requested his help in her quest to bring them all.  Guess what, her wish was granted and we have My Little Pony-ville here on the trip. Thanks Dear, you have reached herodom in a young girls life at the next degree.

Shegrins

My little man makes me laugh. I will share my two latest chuckles with you.

The other night I was at wits end trying to get him into bed. He is my child who fights bed time with any excuse he can come up with, hunger, thirst, a hug, a kiss, another hug. After a half hour or so out of desperation I exclaimed "If you don't get in your bed I am going to wring your neck!" I watched his little mind take this thought in, then as if explaining the obvious he replied: "Mom, you can't ring my neck, it not a door bell." It took my whole strength not to laugh. It is a hoot seeing how his mind processes things!

This afternoon was the second experience. We had just dropped sister off at school and he asked if we were going to go to his oldest brothers wedding today. I told him it wasn't for another couple of weeks. He asked if we would be going to his other big brothers wedding, I explained that wouldn't be for another 3-4 years. He exclaims: "Then we can have a big brothers wedding and a baby brothers weddings later!" My thougths were; "maybe we could just ask everyone wait until the youngest is ready to marry, then we could just have everyone married at once...lol" I am glad it doesn't work that way.

He just gives me a reason to grin when I am feeling stressed or overwhelmed. thank Heavens for children!

Just a Singular Thought

As I am addressing wedding invites for our eldest son I find something peculiar. The friends of mine that I am sending them to are all older couples. There are exceptions of coarse, there are those who have watched him grow over time that are included, but over all most of the friends I have included are frankly a bit my Sr. The question crossed my mind: "Why am I not sharing this with the friends of my age group?"

While pondering this question I had posed myself, I will admit, I had many thoughts race through my mind. With thoughts came some things I have been trying to settle in my own mind

The people my age are experiencing some of the same things I am, yet I feel like at times they think I am on a completely different page. The truth be told, I am. Aren't we all on different pages? Most people my age have children entering their teens, and younger.

Going through these thoughts I had an epiphany. My husband and I are a unique couple. The man I chose to marry is 18 years my Sr. Yet when we are together I feel he is my best friend, my equal in many ways and honestly I rarely think of him as my Sr. unless it is brought up by an acquaintance, or our older children...Or someone entirely from the out side who cant imagine me having a child old enough to marry, be done with college, have a carrier, or whatever may come up in conversation.

I think the reason I am sharing this exciting experience more with my older friends rather than those my age are because they can relate more in my excitement, they have not experienced it for themselves recently so I think I am somehow letting them live through me. Through my children as they have done with their own.

It is odd being in my position sometimes. To be honest, I never imagined it for myself, yet it feels like I have been living it longer that the reality of it is. This is a good statement, not intended to be facisiouse(sp), or said lightly. My husband is teaching me things still, and I am teaching him sometimes (patience more than anything else I feel mostly.) Over all I enjoy this experience. Each Season of life teaches different lessons, and maybe that is why I relate with different friends at different times.

Just a thought ...or many thoughts that went through my mind this eve.

My 4 year old Teaches me Humility

Have you heard the rumour that children are here to keep us humble? It is true! Just this week I have been given two very good examples alone to prove it. Let me share.

The first one took place the other day while my daughter was working on a project. As I watched her I told her when I was a kid I had done the same thing. Her eyes grew big and with the honestly of a child and may I add, sounding a little too surprised she asked: "And you can remember that mom?"

With the second one I will prep it with this. As you know, I had a baby last month. With the birth and after I have shed 30 lbs. I will admit I have been feeling pretty darn good about that. Many of my friends have commented on how great I am looking. With that, today my two year old and four year old were heading out to our back patio for a few moments of basking in the beautiful weather we had received. My little man opened the door just enough for himself to slide through. Thinking it would be nice that my daughter and I wouldn't have to skimmy through I opened the sliding door a ways more. Also wanting to avoid bumping the baby's head was in my thoughts. Upon exiting, my daughter with importance in her tone explains to my little man "Mom had to open the door wider because her butt has gotten a lot bigger after having three kids."

*SIGH* I guess I could use to loose a few more pounds. As for the age thing, I guess it is good that I don't have altimers as of yet (grin).

While on the phone with my mother this afternoon sharing these stories, my mother said "It looks like she took notes from your childhood." Thanks mom. It is nice to know my daughter is taking after me in some form.

Time

Well, today I didn't get much accomplished. The little guy needed to be held pretty much most of the day. When I wasn't holding him I was picking children up from school, or running to the store.

This evening though, once everyone was in bed has been great, I put a load of dishes on to wash. For laundry, I have caught up on children's, folded 3 loads, gone through the little man's drawers and pulled out the clothes that are too small, washed 2 more loads of clothes and eaten a good chunk of dark chocolate.

Tomorrow might be a drag, but if all I am doing is holding the little guy, I should be alright. I am two steps further ahead than I thought I would be,*grin*.

The day is winding down for me however, so I will bring this to a close. Hope you have had a great day yourself.

A Heart Full

Unable to sleep tonight I was catching up on blogs I follow, one being my Eldest daughters. We had a falling out this past year. It was an ugly one. Not something I care to relive, nor put her through again. With that said I will share with you something that...well, made my heart full tonight.

While reading her blog I notices a window on the side. Over the phone she had told me she was beginning a side business just for fun to use some of her God given talents. At the time she had not yet gone public with it. When I clicked on the window it was exactly what she had told me about. Scrolling through the few items she has placed in her "store" I loved seeing her talent! She amazes me with her creativity! Honestly she is a talented girl in more areas than one!

Okay so I am going to go back to our falling out but only for a moment. She was upset with the way I described her in another blog which I have since discontinued. Words were exchanged on both parts and I will admit on my part they were horrid.

Back to my findings tonight. At the beginning of her new blog or sales shop she talked of her goals. She does a great intro of who she is and what she stands for in which she states: she is "occasionally a fairly nice step-daughter". With that out there, My heart was filled with so many feelings. I hope that she and I can build a better relationship and at least one day be good friends. One day I hope she will be able to know I think of her as more than an occasionally nice step-daughter and we can put the past behind us where it belongs.

To see her amazing talent you can go to: molliest.blogspot.com

Life With Little Kiddos

Lately I have been feeling like I have accomplished very little. I was telling this to my husband last night and he informed me other wise.

If you looked around my house you would see baskets of clothes to be folded and put away, baskets more to be washed (I am on top of the kitchen this week thanks to my hubby, and children) my house looks like its been through the hands of little ones (I wouldn't deny that being the case), and my bed hasn't been made in weeks. Ugh.

After pointing all of this out to him he pointed out to me that the children have been dressed and fed, noses have been wiped, tears wiped, sad ones comforted and happy ones laughed with. Right now that is where my emphasis should be. If I get more done along the way that is great!

Well, as you can see my man is a keeper and I intend on keeping him a long time. The Kiddos to, I am finding they grow much faster than I would like. So here we go, another day and here we go again!

My Leg

Well, I should update you on my leg. It is healing nicely. I can hardly tell I had problems with it just weeks ago. The inside of my calf and thigh have turned to a nice ugly brown color telling me and the Doctors that it is on the mend.

Today I had had an appointment with a new Dr. The one who has been helping me retires next week and he recommended thi new Dr in case of future complications. The second Dr said it is looking good. The thought that he had as he checked my leg and read what the other Dr. had said was that it was pregnancy induced and that it might be a good idea to call it quits on having more children. He said next time it would likely be worse. As now he though I should be able to continue enjoying life with out the special pantyhose, or any surgery. However if I have swelling, aches or pains I should see him right away to keep from a repeat of the last experience. I can do that!

It was a relief to hear that the Dr. didn't think it was that big of a deal. Meaning I don't have to have any surgeries, nor do I have to wear any ugly pantyhose. Sorry, there is still a little pride here, I am working on that. But that is the latest on my leg.

Snow day

We are having a snow day! In March. Its a good thing though, for in less than a week the eldest at home will be heading out to test his wings. Thus the two boys can spend a little extra time together. Funny though, they prefer to spend their time together apart. One is up stairs, while the other is down. Both are gaming separate games. Life is interesting, sometimes more interesting than others.

Life's Adventures Never Stop

   In the title of this entry I am not referring to my leg. It is doing much better! It looks ugly but I walk like a human, and it doesn't hurt when my little man bumps my leg, or asks if that is my sore leg as he taps it or something.

   Instead, I am referring to parenting. I watch so many parents and wonder how they do their parenting so gracefully. Here is what I am talking about. I have a stretch in ages here in my home at the moment. I have 3 weeks to 19 years. In the past General Conference we were instructed as parents that it is our responsibility as parents to watch out for out children. To protect them from the world if you may. If we don't the world will take every opportunity given to teach our children, and they are like sponges. (The talk I am talking about is found at the following site:  http://lds.org/general-conference/2010/10/courageous-parenting?lang=eng&query=courageous )

   The Nineteen year old is ready to stretch his wings and experience the world for himself. He is not a bad kid, in fact he is making a lot of decisions right now that fill a parent with pride. Here is the problem he would like to watch movies that we have not allowed in our home for various reasons. In our home my husband and I have the rule of no PG-13 unless it is okayed by he and I. So in our collection you will find Lord of the Rings, Star Wars and a few pre-approved chick flicks. Mostly though we have kids movies and movies that we can watch with our children in our comfort zone.

   Remembering back to when I was a kid, I had watched many movies and been oblivious to some of the content. Later when I had the movie and was watching it with my children (gasp) I have had one of those moments many of us have experienced, you know, "my parents let me watch this?" then you look back and realize it may have been seen at a friends house, a sleep over, or just a day out with your friends.

   My young man has began renting his own movies. Up until today I have had little problem. Usually he will watch them on his computer with his headset on. I figure when he has children of his own, he will either understand why we had our rule, or he will make his own rules. However today he wanted to show one of these movies in the family room with his girl, and he invited his younger brother. He told me the movie showed that the human race as a whole is good. In the past I have heard that this movie is morbid and not kid friendly. He had just told me yesterday that it would not be appropriate for the younger children. I didn't realize we were having this discussion for my approval of watching it as a family video. I had though he would be taking it to a friends or watching it on his computer.

   Many thoughts raced through my head. First of all I am the parent, it is my responsibility to protect my younger children. Second of all is he for real? Third, how am I going to tell the younger children they have to be in a separate end of the home because I think the movie their brother has chose is in appropriate? Fourth was panic mode. Panic mode is never pretty with me, because I don't think things through, I say what is on my mind, and it is hardly ever with grace and I feel like I lose some dignity pretty much every time. Mainly I think I have lost pride.

   I was able to redirect this young man and his girl to a different movie but only after a melt down of my own. In all truth I wish this parenting thing was all easier. My children would just take my word on things, they would not question me, they would know I had their best interest at heart. My real problem is I am not big on the confrontational thing. I don't do it with grace. I wish there was a book out there that would tell me how each child ticked, and how to approach things with them.

   Until that book is written I guess I will just have to take it a day at a time. Prayer is something I should rely on more, and trust that He knows what He asks me to do is another thing I could work on.

What a crazy week!

Well, I could have lives with out this past week. Though my husband assures me that this week is an experience I will be able to use to either relate to others or teach them in the future. So I bet you are just a tad curious. Don't be, I am about to tell you all about it.

Last Wednesday My leg was hurting, there were red blotches on my calf and a couple on my thigh. I called the Dr to see if it was something I ought to worry about. He instructed me I ought to head to the ER right away. A friend of mine was coming into town and I asked her to join me because hubby needed to stay home with the baby and kids.

In the ER they performed an ultrasound on my leg and decided I didn't have a blood clot. *Phew*. The instructions were for me to go home, put heat compresses on my legs and exercise as my leg would allow. I could take Ibuprofen as needed, if I followed the instructions on the bottle. She told me pretty much I had little to worry about.

That night I put a heat compress on it. It felt great while the heat was on it, but hurt like a blimey bugger when the heat was removed.

By Sunday the red covered most of my calf and a good portion of my thigh. It was very painful to the touch, and walking was a miserable task. At church I showed my leg to a couple of friends, and they were shocked! The informed me I ought to go in as soon as I could to have it looked at again. After church my hubby and I headed int Urgent Care. On my way in I said a prayer that the Dr. who looked at my leg would know what he was looking at and know how to take care of my problem.

When I was in with the Dr. He took one look at my leg and I could tell it wasn't good. He told me I have Celulitus and Flabitus. He was shocked to see it having progressed as far as it had before I had decided to come in. Basically what it is is an infection in my veins just under the skin. He had blood work drawn and checked my temp. both came in normal (thank goodness, otherwise he later told me he would have had me hospitalized.) He than had the nurse give me a big juicy shot right in the buttock. I was instructed to avoid putting heat on it and stay off it as much as my children would allow, keep it elevated! Return Monday and Tuesday for follow up shots and we will see from there.

On my visit Tuesday I was given an antibiotic to take for the next two weeks as my leg clears up. Wednesday my leg turned purple. I had to take the little one in and his Dr looked at it and told me it is healing nicely. So here we are on the mend. I now only have a dull pain, and and ugly leg. I have been blessed with the help of family and ward family through this whole ordeal. I can't express the gratitude I feel enough!

Dinner

Tonight a good friend of the family brought our family dinner as a Welcome gift of the new little addition. Boy was her meal welcome! We all felt it! I have been taking care of the little one, and my husband has been taking care of sickling children while being sick himself. It has been quite the picture around here...luckily this too shall pass. Until then we are grateful for the many wonderful friends we have out here.

Back to my friend bringing dinner. She brought enough for an army! My Little man thanked her all of the way into the kitchen showing our friend the gratitude we were all feeling. As she sat and held the new little guy in our family my Two year old went to the table looked at the spread she had brought for us and asked when we were going to eat. He sat there eyeing it all for a good 5 min., decided he had done his waiting patiently and decided it was time to enjoy this spread. When we did sit down to eat he ate it all! He being my pickiest eater these days just made my day. I hope my friend understands what a compliment this is and how much we appreciate her!

Cereal and sandwiches is all the little man has been getting the past couple of days. No wonder the gratitude and readiness for a good home cooked meal. What a blessing. Thank you again!

Our New Little Man

Well, our latest little bundle of joy has joined us this past weekend! What an adventure! He weighed in at a whopping 10 lbs, and 21 3/4" long! He has a bit of hair and a sweet personality! His brothers and sisters are all excited about him. My little lady cant keep her hands off his head, she loves the way his hair feels. My first little man proudly announces to everyone that his little brother is here. It is fun to see them with him. I can hardly wait till everyone is feeling better around our house so we can all interact with him.

I thought I would share the latest news, and now need to go take care of the little tyke. I hope you all have a wonderful day!

Through the Eye's of a Parent

We are still awaiting the arrival of the newest addition to our little clan. Like his older brother I think he has plans of his own, so I just need to be patient.

On a whole other note, I was thinking today how blessed I really am. I have had five children placed in my care at various ages. With each age has come different trials and triumphs of my own and theirs. I have to say though over all I enjoy watching them grow at each stage. Little ones are fun because they are experiencing the world for the first time. It is fun to see how their minds work and process this new world. As the children get older and their thinking more complex it is also a joy to observe how their minds work.

The middle of my step-boys reminds me so much of myself when I was his age it scares me! Seriously. He is all about black and white, there is no gray in his thought. However he is beginning to see that there are different tints and shades of grey and it is fun to watch him enter this realization.

Several months ago he and I had had a discussion about girls. He is readying himself for a mission. He had decided he wasn't going to date because he didn't want to entertain another guys wife. He would rather save his money for his own girl after the mission. Hey, that is safe, and I am okay with that. In our ward we have some great young women. I just thought it would be fun for he and some of the girls to experience dating a little. In all honesty it is alright with me if he isn't interested in dating till later, because I would like for him to be focused on his mission. 

This past week however he seems to see that it isn't necessarily a terrible thing to date a little. He has been crushing on a girl in the ward for a while and it has been fun seeing him flirt with her a little. Now he is spending a little more time with her. As a parent figure I find myself wondering. Wondering if she will write him? Will they be like Pres. and Sis Hinckley? My husband and I like this girl, and wouldn't mind her as a part of the family, though that thought is still in the foreseeable future. Not any time soon. Yet it is still one that plays in the corner of my mind as well as my husbands.

So I guess the point I am making with this entry is that I enjoy being a parent of a span of ages. It is enjoyable to watch life play its self out through my children. I know this young man is going to make a great missionary. He is also going to make a great husband and father down the road. Who knew that parenting could be so much fun? There are those hard times where I feel I would like to pull my hair out, don't get me wrong, but this must be a little of what Heavenly Father feels as he watches us. He feels excited to see what our next choice will be and to watch us progress through this life.

Another day

It has come to the point in my pregnancy I am no longer sleeping well. I know I need the rest, but how can you sleep when you keep dreaming all night you are in labor and not progressing? First I would dream I was Not registered at the hospital and so they couldn't admit me, and now I'm just not progressing. Is this a sign  I am going to be pregnant for the rest of my life?

A dear friend of mine said I was in sane to want this little tyke out of me any sooner than my body sees fit. Her point was that once he is out he will be a full fledged responsibility, no putting him back. There will be diapers to change, baby to feed, baby to hold, crying...etc. I understand her points made. I am just tired of waiting that is all. I must be from the microwave generation, pop it in, take it out.

Mental Timers

Confession: I rely on mental timers...dang.

Example: For the past month I have been feeling like I Should be done with this pregnancy. Seriously, why am I still carrying this little guy? I would love to hold him in my arms and be able to put him down once in a while. A couple days ago I was thinking about a miscarriage I had had last spring...I must have set a timer then and forgot to reset it with this pregnancy. Since I have come to this conclusion I haven't been feeling quite so antsy. I am actually enjoying it. Now if I could just get into the nesting thing...the baby is going to be here in 2-3 weeks and I haven't really started getting ready. I could be doing it now, but here I am.

Example: I have a teenager that is waiting for his mission call. I feel like I am impatiently waiting as well. I am looking forward to him leaving, and growing from the experience. He seems to know everything better than myself at this time and it is driving me nuts...his parenting skills are even better than mine. I am ready for him to stretch his wings and fly, for experience is better than observation. And unfortunately the nest leaves little space to do so.

I was talking with my husband about this in two separate occasions. One I was told I shouldn't be so anxious. The latter conversation, he admitted that he too uses mental timers. I am glad I am not alone in this. I enjoy my children, but I also enjoy watching them grow, and sometimes it is pleasant to watch from a distance. My mother has told me she felt the same at times. So I don't feel so bad about some of the mental timers, they must be somewhat normal, and for good cause.