Sweet Natalie

Look Who's a Year Older and Wiser Too!  This girl amazes me in so many ways.  She is so calm and collected.  She's talented and a really good cook.  If we need a special dish made we ask Natalie.  She's kind.  I've never heard Natalie speak unkindly of anyone.  She's patient.  My cute son and their darling kids might push her but some how she doesn't let it get her going.  She's organized.  Her house speaks loudly of that talent.  She is completely perfect for my son and he is a better person because he married this beauty. (I think she did ok too)

I love that Natalie is in our family.  Our family is better and so blessed because she is in it.  Natalie makes me a better person as well.  I 'm so glad she is the mother of three of my very cute grands.  They are very lucky to have such a wonderful mom!  So Thankful for Natalie!

Larry and I went to the Temple together and did initiatory.  Again, it was great being in the Temple of our Lord! (3 times for me this week...woot woot)

About Me

At the end of each month I am also going to include something about me that you might not have known.

My favorite food has always been pasta.  When I was growing up and if I got to choose what we were going to have for dinner I would choose spaghetti.  As I got older I became acquainted with Fettuccine Alfredo and would order it whenever I went out if it was on the menu.  I love homemade mac and cheese and to tell the truth I even like the boxed macaroni and cheese...just not as much.  I love top ramen noodes, japanese noodles...anything with pasta.  I like all kinds of pasta and right now I really like the curly, corkscrew pasta called Cellentani!  I love the twist in it..and I think it's fun to eat. ☺

My favorite Restaurant is LaFerovia. The owners are from Naples, Italy and just cook so good.  Even my grands love LaFerovia.  I use to always order the pasta combo.  With the combo you would get a pasta in red sauce and a different pasta in white sauce.  Now I switch it up and try to add a little protein when I order but oh my...I love the pasta.

I still  cook pasta for a meal at least once a week.  It seems like Mondays are a good day for spaghetti since it's fast and easy and filling.  We have lots of pasta in our food storage...it's what we eat!

Recipes We Like

Each Month I decided to put a recipe that our family likes.  To start off I am putting my recipe for Shepard's Pie.... The reason I chose this recipe first is because it has always been something that my entire family has liked.  I can't remember ever having anyone complain and say they didn't like it.  I even had a friend call me once because her teenage son wanted my Shepard's Pie for his Birthday Dinner.  It's simple and good! (the left overs are good too)

Shepard's Pie
Brown 1 1/2-2 lbs of hamburger
in a 9 x 13 pan mix...
2 cans of tomato soup
1 can of corn (drained)
1 can of green beans (drained)
and hamburger
Make mashed potatoes.  I use instant a lot because they are fast and still taste good.  Spread the mashed potatoes on top and cover with shredded cheese.  Bake at 350 for 30 min. (covered)

Vanilla Graham Cracker Desert
Layer graham crackers on the bottom of a cake pan.  Then layer whip cream/pudding mixture and repeat.  Top with another layer of graham cracker and frost the crackers with chocolate frosting.

Cream Cheese/pudding mixture: 2 small instant vanilla pudding and 1 small cool whip.
Make Pudding using 3 cups of milk instead of 4 and fold the cool whip in it.

H*E*L*P

Thank goodness for friends!  When I need help with something I can call and friend and will get the help I need.  I am over SNAP next week and so I planned a little lesson about Love and Kindness.  I thought we could make a card to give to someone and also a funny ring I saw on the internet.  The President wanted me to use some of the paper and left overs we had for the cards.  My mind went right back to preschool as I designed my love note.  It was the worst thing I have ever created since the age of 5 and even Larry agreed....it was ridiculous.  Kathy is the queen of cards and has everything to make really cute ones.  I went to her house yesterday and decided what I wanted and then I went back today to cut them out.  I picked up more paper from our SNAP closet.  Now I have a kit for the gals to each make a really cute card. I feel much better about things now. ☺ Robin and Carla came over too and Kathy ended up helping Robin make a sign for her son to respond to a dance invite.  It was cute and we all had a great time.

a few things

Every once in awhile someone will post something on my face book wall.  They post sayings that they say reminded them of me.  It makes me happy that others think of me in such positive ways.  I always appreciate that simple act of kindness!  These are all simple reminders to continue to be happy and positive....it makes a difference and influences more than we think.

Sometimes I will take a quiz on the internet to see what color you are or who you look like or what princess etc.  I took a color quiz and for the first time ever I was told I was Yellow.  I liked the reason why...Yellow is the color of sunshine and symbolizes happiness and friendship! It can stimulate mental energy and cheerfulness and definitely represents you! You love to have fun with your loved ones and your smile can light up a room!  Good Morning Sunshine!

This actually did remind me of me...however....I think we could read every single meaning of every color and relate to it in some way or another.  But for today this was perfect and did brighten my day like sunshine does!

I hope that you are happy....yes you....the one reading this right now.  I often wonder who will read this?  I think of those that will read this when I am gone...gone to the better place.  I hope in some small way all my writings and ramblings can help my posterity.  I feel a strong love for those already gone and for those still coming.  Life is a test.  We can't give up.  It doesn't last long. The journey should be enjoyed.  I hope your life is fun and that you are enjoying it.  You are Loved!

The Temple is the Place to Be!

Kathy wanted to go to the Temple with me this week but not at 7:30 in the morning so we made plans to go again today.  We decided to go to Brigham so that Jodi could join us.  I am really glad we did.  I have wanted to go to that Temple since it was dedicated but hadn't made it.  Jodi describes it as feminine and the Ogden as masculine and I agree.  The Brigham City temple is light and delicate, and the Ogden is dark wood and big features.  Both are absolutely beautiful and it really is fun going to the different temples and to see the differences.  The feeling though from going is always the same...I always feel loved and such peace.  The Temple is such a blessing in our lives.  My friends are also such a blessing. (each and every one regardless of how much I see or spent time with them)

When we entered the women's dressing room my sweet friend Elaine Mills walked by.  Elaine lives in Samaria, ID and she has always been such a wonderful friend to me. We both lit up when we saw each other.  I was telling Larry later that night about bumping into her and he mentioned what the chances of that happening are....less than a minute difference and we wouldn't have.  Seeing Elaine brightened my day. I sure do love her!

I had to leave the session again today because I really had to go to the potty. (I say again because years ago I had a little "nightmare" and left 3 times) I felt like a little kid but knew I could not hold it.  I always go before the session and think that it's all in my head so this time when I felt the urge I ignored it...plus I didn't know where the rest room was.  Anyway as I sat there in the session I realized it was NOT just in my head but it was in my bladder!  I was beginning to feel miserable and wasn't enjoying the session.  I had a plan....when we stood to put on our Temple robes I would sneak out.  That plan worked out pretty good.  I was sitting on the back row and just went right out.  I am so glad I did....my bladder was like "super-sized". (if you didn't know it there are rest rooms by the endowment rooms)  I got back in the room and people were still standing getting dressed.  I frantically got my robes on and sat down...I was the last one standing but not by much.  I actually tied my sash and veil after I sat down. ☺ I think the older lady sitting by me was annoyed by me but I find that kind of funny since she is the only one I didn't have to climb in front of to make my exit.  She reminded me to remove my slippers and was kind of a grump about it.  I thanked her later for reminding me and she still looked grumpy and told me she couldn't hear me and so I repeated myself and then she turned her head the other way.  That kind of made me laugh....I really couldn't help myself.  I will go potty before any more sessions I attend. ☺ I did notice a smile on the poor ladies face after she went to the prayer circle and had to climb pass everyone on the back row.  People just look better when they smile. ☺

After enjoying the Celestial Room for quite awhile and gathering the names I took that Kathy and Jodi helped me do, we went to Firehouse Pizza for a treat.  We shared some garlic bread and a skookie.  Yummy!  We enjoyed each other for a little longer and then we needed to leave so I could get home to watch Parker and Macie while Mya had parent/teacher conferences.  It was a wonderful day!

I had asked Jaydan if he would please work on my lower back because it was really hurting.  He took a little time before he left and pushed on a few pressure points.  It killed at first but slowly got better.  He only worked on it for 10-15 minutes but my back was much better when he was done.  The left side was the worst and the side he worked on.  I guess it was compensating for me holding the babies which I always hold on my right side.  I am really thankful that Jaydan was able to help me out.  I need to talk him into working on it a little more. ☺

This is the Life

I was at the Temple early this morning.  I left my house before 7:00 am and attended the 7:30 session.  Not too many people in that session.  Only 9 sisters and believe it or not 18 brothers.  I say that because usually there are more women than men but apparently not in the early hours.  The Temple makes me smile.  I am thankful for this time in my life that I am able to attend more regularly.  I know that our ancestors have been waiting a long time for someone to do their work.  I almost lost the card with the name on it today.  It was in my pocket and after I took this picture I couldn't find it.  I went back to my car and it had fallen down by my seat.  I was very happy to find it...I bet Maria was too. (Maria Teresa Purin)

After the Temple I had a little meeting at my house with some friends to plan a trip to Disneyland.  I love Disneyland.  Debbie Peterson who I bowl with is there this week with her family and after talking about it at bowling I decided I wanted to go.  Carla was game and so we threw it out there for others to join us.  Patti showed up for the meeting and so did Kathy.  I doubt Kathy will go though because her knee is still bothering her and it hurts her to walk and at Disneyland you do a lot of walking.  We planned the days...February 16-20.  Larry actually got the ball rolling when I told him that Carla and I wanted a girls trip to Disneyland.  He suggested the dates and a few other things.  I was excited that Larry was all for it too.  The guy loves me!  Jody and Robin didn't make it to the meeting but say they are in.  We are going to buy our tickets next week and then we will know for sure who is really in.  I had a hotel reserved but Patti got one a lot cheaper because she is a member of something.  I really hope that Jodi can swing this.  Her family has some challenges right now and so her decision will be later when she knows better of whats going on.  This was a very spontaneous decision and I know it will be lots of fun. Being with a few ladies who like to have fun always is!

Larry had invited a family over for dinner but again they were not able to make it. (this is the second time we had plans to have them over)  I guess their family keeps getting sick or maybe they really just don't want to come.  I had invited Connor too and when the other family fell through I invited Carla and Roger.  Carla hung out all day with me and it was fun.  I really enjoyed spending the day with her.  Roger and Larry clicked right away. They both have the same sense of humor.  We ate hamburgers on paper plates (I'm not fancy) and then played cards.  We had such a good time. Connor told Carla that she was Hot and 2nd to Kimleighel.  He also told her not to stare at him when really all she was doing was looking at him waiting for him to respond to a question.  Connor called Carla Robin throughout the night.  He is such a tease.  Robin had tried calling Carla once and Carla didn't answer but told us who was calling and Connor picked right up on it.  When Connor said Carla was hot I mentioned that at least she was on a list.  I asked Connor if I was hot and he said: "no...you are beautiful"! I love my friend Connor!  He is such a blessing!  

Today was just a wonderful kind of day!

Awareness

Today I wore Purple in awareness of Cystic Fibrosis!  I hadn't even heard of that until a few years ago.  My dear friend's first two sons were born with it.  Her second son passed away because of it.  Purple is also my friends favorite color and so today I wore Purple for Her and her boys and everyone with this challenge in their life.

Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is a hereditary disease affecting the cell that produce mucus, sweat and digestive juices in organs such as the lung, pancreas and the liver. Normally, these secretions are thin and slippery, but in cystic fibrosis, a defective gene causes the secretions to become thick and sticky. Instead of acting as a lubricant, the secretions plug up tubes, ducts and passageways, especially in the pancreas and lungs. Related symptoms include excessive thick and sticky mucus production which clogs up the airway and makes it difficult to breathe and creates a place where bacteria can easily grow, causing serious damage to the lungs. Cystic fibrosis is one of the most common life-shortening, childhood-onset diseases. There is no cure according to conventional wisdom.

I didn't do much else today.  I didn't do my hair because I was called to deliver contacts to a child that left home without them.  I got to have lunch with Larry though and so that was a bonus.  Plus, while at the shop Braxton took the screw out of my tire and repaired it.  I actually finished my blog book for 2014 and worked on another book and worked on my lesson/activity for SNAP so the day was not wasted.

Alexi's Day

Today my cute niece Alexi reported on her mission to Reno!  Jaydan dressed up for the occasion..woot woot!  I am so proud of Alexi and the mission she served.  She served so well and touched many lives.  I visited with a man and his boys who were converted by Alexi because she just wouldn't give up on them.  There were a few people from her mission that came to listen to her.  She also had many Sisters come too.  It was fun seeing all the people that my sweet niece influenced for the better in the year and a half that she served.

Lexi was very humble in her talk and didn't want to come across as being the one that made the difference.  She totally gave all credit to the Lord....Father as she referred to Him.  Her talk was simple but powerful.  The spirit was so strong and I know that everyone in the meeting had to have felt it.  There were a few there that aren't members and I know they "feel" the goodness that the Spirit brings.  She spoke of prayer, reading the scriptures and attending our Church meetings.  If we do those 3 simple things we will feel the difference in our lives and our lives will improve for the better because we will draw closer to our Heavenly Father.

I love the analogy's she used in portraying a few points.  Like the visual of us going to Church in our Armor that is all banged up and smashed and dirty because of what the world does to us each week.  But while at church we fix those dents and polish it back up and are ready for another week.  She gave a few more and I think the way she put things others were able to relate and understand what she was talking about.  

I really loved how she shared that if she could take us all back to just one point of her mission it would be the time that she was really struggling.  The time that she felt like giving up. The time that she wasn't sure she could do this. The time that she was being broken and made humble so that Father could strengthen her and teach her.  That's what happens in life...we are broken and stretched to our limits and that is when we are teachable. (interesting)  She shared a poem by CS Lewis about building our home.  How Father took down the walls and redone the plumbing or whatever He needed to so that He could change our little Cottage to the Palace that He had planned for us.  That's what Heavenly Father does....He makes us better!  He knows our potential and helps to reach it.

“Imagine yourself as a living house. God comes in to rebuild that house. At first, perhaps, you can understand what He is doing. He is getting the drains right and stopping the leaks in the roof and so on; you knew that those jobs needed doing and so you are not surprised. But presently He starts knocking the house about in a way that hurts abominably and does not seem to make any sense. What on earth is He up to? The explanation is that He is building quite a different house from the one you thought of - throwing out a new wing here, putting on an extra floor there, running up towers, making courtyards. You thought you were being made into a decent little cottage: but He is building a palace. He intends to come and live in it Himself.” C.S. Lewis

 I had a few thoughts come to me while Alexi was speaking.  I was thinking back when I heard one of our leaders say he always loved when challenges or storms came into his life.  He even got excited about them because he knew that blessings or rainbows would be following.  I bet he was about my age when he said that and I was a good 20 years younger and didn't quite get it.  But, as I thought today I realized I am getting it.  Some challenges or things that would have been challenges to me even 10 years ago don't seem like a big deal.  I can see deeper now and understand so much better.  I can actually visualize the Rainbows ahead.  I really do like where I am in life!  I have had my fair of struggles and challenges but because of them I am stronger and better and so I am thankful for each of them so much.

I am thankful that we got to hang out with the Coy family today and bask in their goodness.  I love them all so much and each of them have made me a better person.  I watch them and learn from them and respect them all.  They are the family I chose for myself.  God knew exactly what He was doing when he sent Tonya's family to our neighborhood.

As Alexi said "We are all Fathers instruments".  He accomplishing His work through us!  I know that to be true.  I have felt it, seen it and experienced both sides of this plan. What a beautiful, wonderful, spiritual day!  A great way to end one week and to start another!

Spreading a Little Sunshine!

This friend has been on my mind for quiet some time.  I've been wanting to go and visit with her.  So much is going on in her life and her sweeties that is challenging.  Denise shared a little with me in a sweet card and I heard a little more from another friend.  I just haven't taken the time to get to her and when I have planned a time to go I had interruptions and haven't made it.  I'm hoping that the reason for those delays is because now is the right time.  I took a Scatter Sunshine bag with me today when I went to Alexi's mission report.  I was really hoping Denise would be there so I could give it to her and to my pleasant surprise she was.  I literally got tears in my eyes when I looked behind me a few rows and saw her and her hubby.  I gave her the bag today but still plan on going and sitting and visiting so she can tell me all that has been going on for the last year or so.  In the meantime I hope the little quotes and treats remind her that I love and care about her.

I love Denise so much!  From the time I moved to Roy (!984) she has been my friend.  She started out as my visiting teacher and from that we bonded and continue to be great friends.  Denise is sweet and kind and very loving.  She is a terrific mom and grandma and her family has always came first.  She has always had some strange health challenges that she mostly just laughs at even though they are very painful and challenging.  Denise manages to smile through her trials and enjoy the good things in her life. Denise is and always has been a wonderful example to me!  I ♥ her!

a "Grand" Week

                                 

Well this week was FUN and EXHAUSTING!  We had grands the entire week...I'm not complaining...I loved it!  It's just funny how exhausting it is when it's not the constant. ☺  Ivy and Zaden came on Monday all day.  They love coming and have a wonderful time.  They really like it if Kimleighel and Jared are home.  They were home since it was Martin Luther King's Day and No School anywhere.  Monday Night Lynette (Jordyn's other grandma) brought us Jordyn.  We were all excited to have this little one with us for a week.  She is so dang cute and good.  When I laid her down the first night I couldn't believe that she just snuggled in her blanket and went to sleep.  Not a peep out of her and she sleeps 12 hours at night.  Jordyn is six months old and so I think that is quite wonderful. She did that every night!  She wakes up talking and smiling.  What a joy she was to have!  She only cries when she is hungry or tired.  

Tuesday Ivy came back and spent the day with Jordyn and I.  Ivy didn't have school and so we played.  We started off by going to the Doctor so I could get my Thyroid medicine filled.  I really do not like going to the Doctor especially just to get a prescription filled...such a waste of time and money.  But I need it and so I went. My Doctor is cute though and so that makes it better than if he wasn't.  When I started going to him when I called to get a doctor the receptionist asked me who I wanted and I just told her to give me a cute one....that she did.    

Later Ivy decided to fix herself a tuna sandwich which I'm all for letting them do it themselves. (I have learned it's good for them)  I laughed though as she brought the bowl and bread in by the TV and continued to make it right there on the floor.  I reminded her that we keep the food at the table and she told me she was just making it not eating it.  That is something I will never quite figure out.....our TV can be seen from the kitchen table and our bar but the food still gets carried over to the couch.  Oh well....I just don't fight it like I use to.  It happens regardless so instead of nagging I just go with the flow. (most of the time...I still do plenty of reminding)

Wednesday I got right up and took care of Jordyn and then left her with Kimleighel so I could go to the Temple.  I got home in time for my visiting teachers to come.  I was wondering why they were late and then Ruth knocked on my door.  She had been waiting for Janean but she must have forgot because she wasn't home and didn't come home in the fifteen minutes that Ruth waited.  After visiting with Ruth, I took Kimleighel and Jordyn to my mom's to visit.  It was fun seeing her and I believe she enjoyed our visit.
                                 

I am very thankful for my kids at home and the help they are with the littles.  I'm not sure why but taking care of my grands all day kills my back.  I've always had a bad back and really need to find some exercises to strengthen it.  In the evenings the family really helped out.  On Wednesday Larry took me and his dad to the movie, Taken 3 which was really good.  I love going to the movies with Larry every now and then.  Thursday I had SNAP and while I gone Larry dressed Jordyn up in his Lion gear and sent a picture to Kevin.  Jordyn had worn in her Dolphin shirt all day but Larry didn't even know that because I had her in her jammies by the time he got home.  When Kevin got the picture he told Larry that was child abuse. ☺  Jordyn didn't seem to mind.  Thursday I had also taken Jordyn to the Day Care so I could go bowling.  Julie and Kevin pay regardless if she is there or not and told me to take her if I had something.  Since Jordyn was at Day Care, Carla and I decided to go to Farmington Station and do a little shopping.  I was looking for something for Natalie since her birthday is at the end of the Month.  I did find her a few Valentine Decorations at the last store we visited.  My back was really sore on Thursday.  I even noticed it while bowling but after shopping I was feeling pretty miserable.  I try to push it but have found out that when I push too much and let my back get to the point of miserable it actually makes me sick.  Darn Back....I found myself a few times this week saying I have a dumb back.  Immediately the thought comes "it's not dumb....it still allows me to walk and for that I am grateful".  I had SNAP Thursday and a Ward came and played Bingo with all our participants. 

When I had gone to bed with my back hurting I have noticed how much back muscle it takes to turn and move.  I'm grateful my back doesn't hurt all the time and usually feels much better in the morning.

                                     

Friday Lynette came back to get Jordyn and brought Kamryn with her.  I was so happy to see that little one.  I really missed her this week since she was the only grand I hadn't had.  She was staying with her Aunt Jen since Jen runs the Day Care that Kam and Jordyn go to.  Kam goes there before and after school and they drive her to school.  I loved seeing Kams bright, shiny face.  She gave me a few big hugs but couldn't wait to go wake up her sister.  While they were here and before Jordyn was even in her car seat Justin brought his kids.  Mya was so excited to see Kamryn too even though it was for just a minute.  Right after Justin and Natalie left a few packages came in the mail.  Larry was home because he had the day off and he was really excited for me to open the package.  He told me he decided not to send me flowers this month and thought that this gift might last a little longer than the flowers.  Holy Chocolate....5 lb Chocolate bar and big 7 oz Kiss!  Yes I believe it will last longer than the flowers...if I'm not careful my muffin top might hang on to it longer than either of us would want. We broke a few pieces off for the kids a few times and then I put it away up in my closet. ☺It was packed with ice to keep it from melting.  I don't think that was necessary for this time of year.  The chocolate was really creamy tasting....Mmmmmmm!

Mya, Parker and Macie are a delight as well as the others.  They play hard and are so fun to watch.  Mya and Parker enjoyed the nice weather we are having. They played out on Friday and Saturday.  Each day they visited Gramps to say Hi and snag a few treats.  I love having Gramps next door and so do the kids.  Mya enjoyed her comfy pj's all day Saturday.  I asked her to change a few times but she didn't want to and so I didn't care.  Macie likes me best....she just does!

My niece, Lexi got home from her mission on Wednesday and so Larry and I went over to say Hi late Friday Night.  Kimi and Jared took care of the grands and as always did a great job.  Macie was asleep when we got home and slept well into the morning.  I love good sleepers. ☺  Kevin stopped over with the girls and a few of their cute cousins on Saturday and Mya and Parker enjoyed them.  We all did...it's just fun having these cute spirits in our home.

I have a few more grand "kids" that make me laugh every now and then.  Braxton and Kelsi's goats are so cute and very playful at times.  I love seeing them on their little house that Braxton built for them and stopped to take a picture one of the days.  Tyler jumped right off but didn't shy away. Instead he ran around and jumped all over everything.  Dale was busy head bumping the brush Braxton has on a post for him. I love passing these cute "kids" every time I come and go. They really are so cute!

Nerd Alert Meme

1. Favorite childhood book? Dr. Seuss Books...I really liked them all but remember One Fish, Two Fish right off.

2. What are you reading right now? The Elizabeth Smart Story.  I really enjoy reading autobiography's now. 
3. What books do you have on request at the library? I don't get books from the Library but share with my book club.  I'd like to read another Nicolas Sparks book.  

4. Bad book habit? hmmmm...maybe laying down while reading?  I'm not sure I really have one.

5. What do you currently have checked out at the library? I have Kathy Orrocks...The First Call from Heaven by Mitch Albom

6. Do you have an e-reader? Yes but prefer a real book 

7. Do you prefer to read one book at a time, or several at once? I prefer one but have been know to have several going at a time.  I guess I always have another going if you count scripture reading as well.

8. Have your reading habits changed since starting a blog? No but they have since joining a Book Club.

9. Least favorite book you read this year (so far)?  I can only remember one book that was terrible and it was years ago.  I ended up throwing it in the trash so no one else would read it.

10. Favorite book you've read this year? Journey to the Veil was really good.  Left to Tell though is one of my very favorite.

11. How often do you read out of your comfort zone? I guess never.  I use to only read mystery or love stories but as I have been introduced to other books I have enjoyed them.  I have found that my comfort zone has only been expanded.

12. What is your reading comfort zone? I like reading books I know others have read and that they like.  I wouldn't read a book with bad language or any that were naughty. 

13. Can you read on the bus? I could read while traveling unless the roads are too bumpy.

14. Favorite place to read? In my front room where the window is uncovered and lets the light shine in.  It's also a room that is away from the tv room.

15. What is your policy on book lending?  please return it.

16. Do you ever dog-ear books? If it's my book but since I have been sharing books over the years I seldom dog-ear books but use a book mark.

17. Do you ever write in the margins of your books? not so much but I have highlighted a few books.

18. Not even with text books? no

19. A book you didn't expect to like but did? Coming Out of the Ice by Victor...something

20. What makes you love a book? When it keeps me wanting to go back to see what is next.  I like books that teach me about others as well.
Questions from HERE

Another Pie Party

Larry had another pie party for a few more widows.  This time they lived in the first ward which is the ward Larry is over right now as a High Councilman.  I think the Sisters enjoy these little gatherings because Larry always gets each of their favorite pie to share.  (Triple Berry for Sister Frazier and Lemon Meringue for Sister Hansen)  Again, Larry asked the older sisters to share stories of their favorite Prophets.  I have enjoyed listening to their memories.  I really like older people!  It's fun to think about all the prophets and how they have influenced our lives.  Each one has added their own special thing to building up the Kingdom of God.  I am very thankful for all the prophets.  I am very thankful for this church...The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.  The Gospel of Jesus Christ makes me Happy!

Exciting News

The news is out and so now I can post it on here....Trichelle and TJ are giving me another grandchild!  Everyone is very excited!  I was thrilled when Trichelle came and told Larry and I.  TJ didn't know yet but she needed a blessing because she was pretty sick. (TJ was out of town)  One of my first thoughts was: "Babies are Such Blessings".  Babies bring such a strong, wonderful spirit with them even while they are developing.  Good things happen because of babies!  Our family was excited too...we love babies and our littles!

Trichelle wanted Justin to know first since he read about her expecting Zaden on her Blog. ☺ She was having a hard time trying to get with Justin and so she found this little announcement on the internet and went with it.  I added the (NOT) because this baby isn't a "Whoops".  TJ and Trichelle wanted another little one and it is on it's way! Hooray!  I love how gitty and happy TJ is and how caring and kind he is to Trichelle. In fact,  TJ's sister guessed they were expecting because of the change in TJ. ☺  I feel bad for Trichelle...it's not fun being sick 24-7.  I am excited for her to welcome another little one however.  Trichelle is such a kind mom and enjoys her kids....Heck we all do!

I laugh how we went from having five for so long to almost having nine.  The last four are all about 6 months from the other..so in a year and a half's time four more little's will have joined our fabulous family.  I'm loving all the excitement and love a new little one adds!  I LOVE my Family!♥

Weekly Tidbits

This Week was filled with Fun and also a few extra things.

I have been trying to attend the Temple once a week and on Wednesday I was going to go and then go pick Ivy up from School. In the morning I was working on my blog book for 2014 and the time got away from me (but I'm done except changing the page colors) and I didn't have time to make it to a session and get Ivy.  I thought that's okay I can still go Friday...which I did make happen before lunch with my book club.  I knew when I went into the chapel that I might not make the 10:00 session which I really needed to make.  I was right the sister came up to me and told me that starting with me those behind me and myself would be in the 10:30 session.  I knew that wouldn't work for me and told her that I would go do something else then but she told me she would fit me in.  It worked out good and actually there were still a few empty seats.  (we had 1 1/2  rows of women on the men side)  I want to go do what I can for those on the other side of the veil because I know they are helping us on this side and I also would like Heavenly Father to help me and figure I'd better help Him.  I love the feeling in the Temple and all the Happy Faces that I see and pass.  I feel our Saviors Love!

Once in awhile I get a really nice message or text from a friend that really makes my day.  I received one this week that brought me to tears. My friend built me up and said the nicest things.  She totally focused on my strengths and I know she knows my imperfections and weakness's but didn't mention any of them.  The thought came to me again...."I wish we could see ourselves the way others do... or even better if we could see ourselves the way the Savior does."  When times like this happen it always makes me want to live up to all the nice things.  It helps me to try harder and be better.  So Thank YOU my friends that do this for me!

From Jodi: "What an incredible example you are to me and so many! I wish I could be  more like you in every way!!!!!! I will never come even close, but at least I have something to keep reaching towards!  I seriously do not get how you get so much done and EVERYTHING you do is GOOD and SERVICE! You truly are one amazing women!  When you die someday there won't be enough room for everyone that wants to come and pay their respects!!!! Thanks for being my friend!"
From Kim: "I'm proud of YOU running a business and being a mom and grandma.  Thee most important job women can have.  Something that colleges can never offer a degree in."

My bowling league is so good to me and for me.  I know there isn't a week that goes by that I don't feel loved from the other ladies.  Every week I hear a nice compliment and get sweet hugs.  Being around good people brings out the good in me. ☺

Even though the week starts on Sunday I am putting it here at the end of my week.  I had a cool experience that I want to remember.  I was sitting in Sacrament Meeting and I had thought "I don't want to go to my Sunday School class today...I think I will go to Debbie Widdisons." I don't know who she teaches with but that was my thought.  Later in the meeting the "Spirit" told me to go to Debbie Widdisons class today.  I knew it was the spirit telling me and I smiled at the recognition.  Larry was attending Sacrament with our family but had already gone to two other meetings and wasn't planning on staying for the rest of our block.  However, he turned to me and asked me if I wanted him to go to Sunday School with me.  I told him no because I was going to go to Debbie's class.  He laughed and said okay.  When the meeting was over I walked out of the Chapel and looked in Debbie's class.  It was empty but I saw Debbie walking down the hall towards the RS room and drinking fountain.  She stopped at the fountain and I was right behind her when she finished her drink.  I told her that I was planning on going to her class today and she got a big smile.  She told me that the other teacher wasn't coming and that she was going to ask me if I would join her today.  She told me I was the most "spiritual, in-tune" person she knew.  I just laughed.  I knew there was a reason I needed to go to her class.  Another wonderful part is that the lesson was on ........ The Holy Ghost!  We shared my little experience with the cute 15 year olds and Debbie said again "Dawn is the most spiritual, in-tune" person she knew.  One of the gals let out a chuckle which made me chuckle.  I told her that silly (or crazy) and spiritual do mesh...it's possible and really does happen.  Now I didn't share this to pat myself on the back.  I shared because the Spirit talks to us more than we know and the older we get the easier it is to recognize.  The Holy Ghost is a great friend that loves each of us more than we can comprehend.

Shop On The Corner Meme

What kind of job did your mom have when you were growing up? My mom ironed for others as well as cleaned other people's homes.

 Have you ever known anyone that’s been on tv, including you? I have actually been on a few times.  Once in high school for the march of dimes with the band, and when Jared got lost in 2011 Larry, me and Jared were all on the news.  I met Jay Leno before the Tonight Show and got my picture taken with him but that wasn't aired.

 What was the most interesting animal you have seen in the wild? I love all animals in the wild.  Deer, Moose, Elk, Bears etc.  

 What holiday do you enjoy the most? I like and enjoy all Holidays.  I like the "feeling" inside me at Easter and Christmas time best.  I love dressing up and seeing others dressed up for Halloween.  I enjoy all the parties and family dinners for all the Holidays.  I don't think I really have one I enjoy more than others.

 What was the first video game you ever played? I think it was pac man.

 What is the one thing you own, that if it got lost, you would be bummed? My wedding ring.  I seldom take it off and would be really bummed.  I don't want to ever replace it.  I enjoy having the same ring that I was married with.

 Do you have a favorite breakfast item? Seriously...I like chocolate for breakfast.  I don't usually eat a big breakfast though...I know I should but don't.  Growing up I liked cinnamon toast and cream of wheat but not together.  I like waffles and french toast and really other breakfast foods but prefer them for dinner.

 What do you find yourself buying all the time? I guess Chocolate.  I don't like being with it.

 When was the last time you got a real letter in the mail? I received a thank you card about a month ago from a friend.  As far as a letter though.....hmmmmm

 Do you have a most prized piece of jewelry? my wedding ring!

 Do you own any board games? we own a few but I prefer card games.

 What chore seems the most daunting right now? cleaning the bathrooms.  The floors never seem to stay clean.

 Were you born in the state you live in? Yes...I was born and live in Utah

 Have you ever lived in a house that has been broken into? No but I know that the house I grew up in had someone try to break in before.

 What is your favorite cheese? cream cheese.  I also like mozzarella and cheddar. 

 Who do you know that watches the most sports? The answer use to be my hubby but he has mellowed over the years.  Now it would be my mother in law.  Her and Clark are always watching TV and sports.
Question from HERE

Barefoot in the Park

Another Year of plays has started!  I absolutely love going to plays.  I marvel at the talent of people. I love the group of ladies I go with.  The 6 1/2 - 7 hours we spend together goes fast.  We always meet and go to dinner first which is always a treat.  I get to sit in the front with Barbie because she drives and I go to her house and drive up with her to meet the others.  I guess next time I should offer the front to someone else.  I do like the front better and I bet others would too.  Next time I'll be nice.

I like sitting up front with Barbie though and visiting with her.  However, it wouldn't matter who I was visiting with because everyone is nice.  The play this time was Barefoot in the Park and it was cute.  I got thinking afterwards that there wasn't any singing in this one.  It was good though and the  actors did a great job.  This is the first time we have actually seen the actors cleaning up the stage so we got a picture with them.

I'm glad Larry understands my love for the theater and is usually happy to let me go.  He hates the Theater and so to show his love for me he lets me go and leave him home.  Tonight Larry took Kimi and Jared to a movie and out for dinner.  I'm glad he did....they need some special times like that too.  We all had a great night! Yahoo!

So Excited!

Mya was SO Excited to sleep over at our house on Friday!  She came in and ran to me and threw her arms around me and was simply ecstatic! She was telling me how excited she was and that she thought she would die thinking about it on Thursday.  She even dreamed about it Thursday night.  Now really...how cute is that?  She wouldn't let me go and was hugging me with her legs wrapped around me too.  It make my day!  Mya greeted Larry the same hours later when he got home!  It made Grandpa Larry's day as well.

It was Larry's turn to close up and so I decided that I would take Mya shopping for her birthday present before he got home.  Mya loves crafts and art and so I took her to JoAnns.  We had discussed her options before I chose a store.  She is such a good, considerate child.  I told her the amount we usually pay and she did the math and was very selective with her gifts.  I did let her go over because she found an owl at the end of her search that I could tell she really liked.  Mya never begs or wants and so I decided to let her have it.  She ended up with some fun things and got to work on them as soon as we got back to my house.  Oh my grands make me smile!

Mya wanted me to sleep out in the front room with her and so that's exactly what I did.  I slept on the couch and she slept on the floor.  Our heating is in the floor and so actually it's the warm place to sleep...I however think the floor is too hard.  We pinky promised that I wouldn't go get in my own bed during the night. ☺

My boys, Jared and Jaydan, love having the grands over too and chased Mya around. (Kimi loves it too and after playing with Mya for a bit went to a friends house) It was late and they still had her going.  I finally made them stop about 10:30.  I knew Mya had a friend party on Saturday and I knew she needed her sleep.  I could tell that Mya finally fell asleep about 11:00.  I was hoping she would sleep in but she awoke about 7:40 and was excited to see the sunrise.  The sky was pretty and pink when she pointed it out to me.  This little one reminds me so much of myself when I was young.

I made her waffles and she crafted some more.  We got cleaned up so we could go watch Jared play church basketball before I took her home.  We had such a good time.  I love having the grands sleep over for their Birthdays....It's just Fun!

Book Club

I love my book club.  We meet even if we don't read any books.  I haven't read a book for awhile because I don't feel like I have had time...or at least I haven't taken time.  I have one sitting by my bed that Shanna gave me for Christmas and my goal is to read it before we meet again.  Today our group met at the Blue Lemon and it was pretty good.  I had gone to the Temple before and barely made it on time.  I'm glad it was right next to the Temple.  However, had it not been I would have left for the Temple earlier.  It's always fun seeing everyone and visiting.  We got talking about Loretta and she will be home in about 5 months.  It's crazy how fast the time goes.  It doesn't seem like those that serve missions miss that many book clubs.

We really didn't discuss a single book today.  So no exchanging.  I did see that Susan had brought her book bag but she said that she hadn't read and didn't tell us about any of  the ones she had.  I didn't mind since I already have a book that needs me to read it.  I really do enjoy reading and need to make time to do it.  haha

my kind of day

I don't think that I have mentioned how much I enjoy visiting teaching again.  The change was really good for me.  I love going with Mindy because she is just awesome and fun to be with and I really enjoy Jill and Courtnie.  Everyone has been really easy to schedule with and make things easy.  I'm loving it again! YIPEE!  I loved this months message of being obedient.  I love the part that says "Obedience gives us greater control over our lives."  The world wants us to think that we are controlled by being obedient and in reality it frees us.  I decided that I am going to include Carla in my monthly messages and visits.  She mentioned that she would like me to be her visiting teacher a few months ago and I kind of forgot but decided that I am going to start.  I love Carla! (she doesn't live in my ward and isn't a member but that doesn't matter)

I met the Fun Bunch for Lunch at Brixton's.  They serve all kinds of baked potato's.  It was yummy and seeing everyone again was wonderful. I loved that Chris just came even though she said she really didn't get ready. (I worry too much about being ready)  I always enjoy our visits.  I love the support we all are to each other.  Two hours wasn't enough but we all had other things to do. I had to get Jared to the Ortho.

For Christmas our kids gave Larry and I tickets to the Jazz game.  We haven't been to a game for a really long time and truthfully I only knew one of our players.  I use to know them all and really enjoyed watching them.  I'm not so interested anymore.  It was fun to go though and spend time with my hubby.  The Jazz lost but the day was a winner!
(we took pictures with my phone and some of the shots weren't meant to happen but too funny to leave out.  Larry did mean to chop my head off...that wasn't a mistake)