Kamryn's Baptism

What a special day today.  Kamryn turned eight and was able to be baptized on her birthday.  Kamryn's cousin Brexton who turned eight on Sunday was baptized today as well.  These two are such good friends and it was cool that they got to baptized together.  Brexton was a gentleman and let Kamryn be baptized and confirmed before him.  I bet that made Kamryn feel extra special since Brexton is usually the first.

The spirit was strong as it always is at baptisms.  When Kevin baptized Kamryn he did it in Spanish.  It was so awesome and made me cry.  I would have cried anyway.  It was a glorious day.  Kamryn was bubbling with excitement and happiness and was running around afterwards.  She just couldn't contain herself....she's so cute.

They had a nice luncheon afterwards.  Their were lots of people there to support these two cuties.  The Dunkley, Ropelato and White families were all there as well as some ward members and the Bishops of both these children. (Kam's other grand parents were there as well)  I hope Kamryn and Brexton realize how much they are loved because they truly are.

I love Baptism's!  I know that being Baptized is the Right Thing To Do!  We are being like Jesus and Following Him when we are.  The Gospel has been restored!  Joseph Smith was the instrument in which it was.  We have Prophets today that speak to God and run His church.  We're so lucky to get the Gift of the Holy Ghost to be with us when we are baptized.  He loves us and cares about us and He will never leave us....it is us who might walk away from Him but He never leaves us.  His love for us is as unconditional as Jesus and Heavenly Father's is.  Life is Best when we Follow Jesus!

Justin and Kamryn

These two loves of my life share the same birthday.  I think it's great!  When Kamryn joined our family I believe it was Justin that she bonded with first.  Kamryn was so loud and Justin would be louder than her.  Kamryn liked Justin and his teasing.  I'm so glad that they are both ours.

 Justin has always been a mini Larry, a "Chip off the Old Block".  When he was just a little guy his mannerisms were exactly like his dads.  Justin's personality is also very much like Larry's.  He's a kind soul and tries so hard to do what's right all the time.  Justin is witty and fun and others are drawn to him.  Justin is a hard worker.  He has worked at TJ's since he was sixteen.  He is Larry's ticket to retirement. ☺ Justin is smart and kind.  I'm so proud of him.  He's a wonderful big brother and cares about everyone.  Justin is so thoughtful and would give the shirt off his back if someone needed it.  In fact, the Christmas before he went on his mission he gave all his gifts to a few of Trichelle's friends who didn't get a Christmas.  His example rubbed off on Kevin and Kevin also gave up some of his gifts. Justin is a fantastic daddy and husband.  He has always been an obedient son.  I remember so well the day I met him.  My heart was changed.  We had a daughter and a son and life was complete.  I sure do love my oldest son.

This little cutie stole my heart the first time I met her.  I am so glad that she is ours.  Kamryn is so sweet and loving.  She is smart and is good at everything she tries.  Kam tries a lot of different things.  She dances, does gymnastics, plays soccer is good at art, likes to read and I am sure I heard her say she wants to play football.  She's taking after her dad and she makes everyone proud.  Kamryn has been teased since she was born and is a good sport.  She is such a blessing to all of us. Kamryn likes her time with me and that makes my heart so happy. Kamryn is a beautiful little girl and I love her to pieces!

We Went Collecting

So sometimes when people rent Trailers from TJ Trailers they don't bring them back.  I don't know what they are thinking but Larry gets tired of it.  So, Larry decided to drive to SLC and find one that has been gone since November.  Jared and I went with him.  It was scary!  The little neighborhood just off of main and around 17 was small.  The houses were super close together and the roads were smaller than those in the Terrace where I grew up.  The first road we turned down got me scared.  There was a car in the middle of the road and one off the side.  The guys were not talking nice to each other and soon one guy was pulling another one from his car and hitting him.  We kept going but Jared was watching.  We came to a corner and there were two cars stopped even though there wasn't a stop sign...it all made me nervous!

The guy that had our Trailer was nice and polite.  He told us the trailer was in the back of his house which meant we had to go down the road behind his house.  There was no way Larry could turn around and so he backed up all the way down the street. He did as well as "Mater".  Larry asked the guy if he could come up with some $$$ for the use of the trailer and the guy was able to.  So everything worked out good.

We decided to stop and get some dinner at the Spaghetti Factory.  It was yummy as always.  It wasn't a typical Friday night but it was good.

I had this yummy dessert earlier this week with Kimleighel and even though it use to be my favorite it isn't anymore.  It is too rich and made me sick.  That's actually a nice thing.  I will cherish the memories. ☺

 Since it's cold and rainy I justify spending the day wrapped in a warm blanket and a book.

This tree makes me smile every time I drive by it.  I love the beautiful blossoms.

Terrific Thursday

Today was our last day of bowling for this season.  Next week we will bowl for fun and have a pot luck.  My team bowled the ghost team today and we won all the games.  I didn't contribute much the first two games but was a lot of help the third game.  Like we keep telling each other...it takes the whole team.  I'm glad the others are able to carry me when I am in a slump.  I feel bad when I don't do well and we lose.  The Bowling Buddies (my team) were in last place about a month ago but have worked our way up and might be about the middle now.  Seriously though, it doesn't matter to me where we stand and I wouldn't even know if my team didn't talk about it.  I figure we do our best every week and I don't really care where that puts us.  I'm taking the summer off but I hope I will be called to sub. I like subbing because then I don't have to pay. ☺

After bowling Carla and I went to the new Library.  I love our new library and now Carla does as well.  Carla checked out four big books. I returned one big book.  I couldn't find the one I saw the other day that I want to check out and so I decided that I will wait for another week since I have a few books at home to read.  I think you just might find Carla and myself hanging out at the library in the future.

We had DUP today too.  It's very enjoyable and I always enjoy learning about our pioneers.  Judy and Lisea give good lessons and make them interesting.  I believe we only have one more month of  DUP until we have a summer break.  Kathy made it today and I was happy to see her.  I moved over so she could sit between me and Carla.  I've enjoyed being a part of DUP.  It's interesting and fun being a member of this group.  We always have a yummy lunch served to us and today it was a chicken cordon blue casserole and peanut butter bars.  When we start up again in September me, Carla and Kathy will prepare the lunch.  Kathy laughed when she saw we had three of us doing the lunch and said it was because she wasn't dependable.  Kathy just never knows when she is going to feel good or not.  She struggles with migraines and never knows when they will hit, which is often.  So in a way she is right. haha ☺

I got home and was able to make my family dinner before heading to SNAP.  I lost the job I was assigned to do last week which was to get Val off the stage. (Val is blind)  Brother Smith had been helping Val and I told him he could still help Val since all I was doing was getting him off the stage.  Now I am just helping his right arm with the actions when we all sing "3 of a kind."  I"m excited for our production next week.  The participants are really excited and happy with how they are doing.

(Grandma Barbie and twins Revv & Harland)

I followed Barbie over to her daughters house after SNAP so I could see and hold Barbie's new twin grandson's.  They are so tiny and cute.  I sure love babies.  Speaking of babies we got good news on ours today.  They are both over 3 lbs and the fluid has gone down a little again.  WooHoo!  We will get to meet our twins in about 5 weeks.  I'm so excited.

Wonderful Wednesday

I started today off by going to the Temple.  Have I mentioned how much I enjoy going to the Temple every Wednesday morning? It's such a wonderful place to be any time we can make it.

I came home and Carla came over and we weeded a section of my yard.  Under my front room and kitchen windows was terrible.  The weeks were thick and thriving.  We got rid of them and put down some preen and sprayed a few tough roots.  It looks so good.  I am so thankful for Carla and her willingness to help me out.  She loves that kind of work and loves helping others.  Larry was happy that he didn't have to do it.  Heck, I was happy that Larry didn't have to do it.  He works hard all day and I think he needs a little break when he gets home.  It made me feel good to get that much done.

Carla and I were asked to help at the Book Fair at the Elementary School today too.  The school was having a art fair which I guess was pretty awesome.  Local artists brought their paintings and the kids art was displayed as well.  Kimleighel played her cello.  We were there a little early and the PTA President, Cindy P. said she was going to ask Kimi but hadn't.  Kimi loves playing so she went home and got her cello and played for a few minutes.  I know it made Kimi happy.

When our shift at the Book Fair was over I bumped into my cute grands.  They were just going into the book fair and had already had their faces painted.  They are so cute. They had also each painted a shirt with the mustang logo on it.  I think it was screen printed.  I remember screen printing in junior high school.  I made the screen print up even....it was cool. I was glad that I got to see my cute grands.  I was glad that I was able to help at the Book Fair.  I really like helping at my grands schools.  It was a fun and rewarding day for sure!

Memory Lane

These pictures popped up on my memories on Facebook.  This fun day happened in 2012.  I love strolling down memory lane!

Gaming Gals

We had another fun game day with some fun gals.  Today Lorrilee joined us and it was fun seeing her again.  Lorr and I share nieces and have been friends for over 38 years.  Today we played Rummikub and Farkle.  There's a reason I don't take chances.  When I did take a chance playing Farkle, I would "Farkle" and lose all my points.  I might have been the biggest loser today. ;)  I had a great time though regardless if I won or lost.  I really don't care.  However we have a few "Lucky Ducks" and I think we need to bring a duck or chicken to our game days so the winner can have her picture taken with it.  Debbie and Julie were both winners today.

Carla made blueberry muffins for us and I brought some teddy grahams to munch on.  We had a great time and the hours flew by.  Carla doesn't like for me to leave once I'm at her house and so I stayed and had lunch with her and visited for another hour or so. Carla's a sweetie!  I've decided that Mondays are busy now and not just for a few hours.  It's a great way to start a week though...I enjoy my friends.

I was reading Jodi's blog today and made a comment and decided to make it a quote to share.  "Oh the Good We Could Do If We Just Would".  So often we think about doing a kindness for someone but don't get to it.  If we would follow our promptings we really would made a difference...a good difference!

Shelby's getting Married

My niece, Shelby is getting married in a few weeks and so she was "Showered" with Lots of Love and Cool Gifts today.  All my girls except Julie were able to come with me to celebrate Shelby.  Julie has been getting sick with these twins and was down today.  She needs to really rest right now and felt bad that she couldn't come with us.  I was glad that the other girls were their to support our family and Shelby.  It means so much to me.

Shelby is opening the gift we gave her....a pressure cooker.  I told her to make sure she knew how to work it so she doesn't get hurt.  I think pressure cookers are wonderful and had forgot that I have one.  I use to cook with it all the time and got out of the habit.  It's coming back out and will be used again.

I'm excited for Shelby to start this next season of her life.  It's fun and there are lots of adventures waiting for her to experience.

Celebrating Kamryn

I got to pick this cutie up from school so we could celebrate her turning eight which is happening next week.  I liked having so much time with Kamryn.  We went to Toy's R Us and Kam chose a walking Panda as her gift.  We walked all around the store to make sure that is what she wanted.  She was so happy with her choice and even slept with it.  I really love taking the grands shopping.  It's so fun watching them choose their gift.  Since Kam didn't have an after school snack we stopped at Fiiz and got us a drink and cookie.  We sat inside at the bar.  Kam noticed they have chairs like my new ones and a coach to match.

I sure love Kamryn.  Kamryn is such a good big sister.  She's so responsible and smart.  She knew the first presidency of the church when she was three.  I heard her Grandma Lynette tell her they need to work on them again since we have a few new ones now.  Kamryn is brave and dares doing most things.  She won the calf riding contest in Hooper last fall because she wouldn't let go.  She is adventerous and strong.  She does gymnastics and wants to play football.  Kam has so many talents and it's fun watching her as she try everything.

Kamryn enjoys our "one on one" time.  She likes having me to herself.  We tried out the new air mattress I just bought and only the two of us slept in the front room.  (she likes it that way)  We had to get up and get her ready for her early soccer game.  I made her blueberry pancakes and bacon.  She's such a cutie and very appreciative.  I can't believe we are going to have another eight year old...these kids grow up so fast.  I love Kamryn and had a great time celebrating HER!

Lisea's Birthday

I've gotten to know Lisea a lot better this year.  We go to DUP together every month and the Temple every Wednesday.  On the way to the Temple on Wednesday I learned that Lisea was really busy this week making meatballs, Alfredo and Marinara sauces and probably cooking all the noodles for their Ward party they are having on her birthday.  I told her she should buy the meatballs but she doesn't like store meatballs.  Seriously...I would buy them instead of making over 300 for people like me that really don't care.  Lisea likes things to be good though and she is a great cook and so she volunteers to make everything.  Crazy, Cool Girl!

That's when I decided I should do something nice for Lisea and that's when Carla and I went and weeded her flowers.  I wanted to take her to lunch and since she wasn't home on Wednesday we took her today.  I know it make her feel special and I'm glad, because she is.  We went to a few stores while we were out since Carla needed to get a few things.  Carla and Lisea got to know each other a lot better and I think they both might end up volunteering at a Hospital in SLC together holding babies in the NICU!  It makes me happy to have my friends get to know each other better!

We had a good time together!

Grandparents Day

Sometimes the Elementary Schools do fun things that include parents and grandparents.  Today Freedom Elementary had cinnamon rolls for grandparents.  Ivy had called me to see if I would come with her and Zaden.  I went and picked them up bright and early and we went to the school and had our cinnamon rolls together.  I forgot to take cash and so they had to drink water because I didn't have money for chocolate milk. (darn it)  I sure love these cuties and it was fun sitting with them.  Zaden even asked me to walk him to class.

Kamryn also goes to Freedom Elementary and so Ivy went looking for her since she didn't come in the lunch room.  Kam, Julie and Jordyn were sitting right inside the front doors where they were handing out the cinnamon rolls.  I hung out with them for awhile until the bell rang. I left Julie standing in a line to buy a few Ninja Turtle Books from the Book Fair that was also happening.  (smart to invite the grandparents during book fair)

Seeing my grands was a fun way to start off my day.  I sure do love the gramma to these cuties!

Bright and Early

I woke and bright and early and went to Trichelle's to watch the grands since Kimleighel is at a conference in Provo.  I had a wonderful time with them.  Behr woke up just as Trichelle was leaving and he looked at little confused when I went to get him up.  I bet he was wondering where Kimi or his mommy were.  I fed him and enjoyed him for awhile before Ivy got up.  Ivy sets her own alarm and gets up and makes her bed and gets ready for school and then today she sweetly woke Zaden up.  I was down checking on Behr because he was swinging and going to sleep and I heard Ivy's voice.  I was planning on waiting a few minutes before waking Zaden up.  When I heard Ivy talking I walked upstairs to see who she was talking to.  I found her sitting by Zaden's bed reading him a story.  Zaden was peeking out of his blanket, kind of leaning over the bed.  My heart just about melt.  I thought that was about the sweetest act of kindness and love ever.  Ivy finished the book and then Zaden got up happily and got dressed.  (I made his bed) Ivy helped Zaden get his cereal and milk too.  I just watched and beamed.  What sweeties!

Behr and I had a good time.  Behr is very mobile and I had to keep bringing him back to his toys.  He liked heading for the stairs and climbing them and is really got at it.  He prefers to be in between the coaches and climbs right over the barricades that are set up to keep him out.  He really liked crawling to a suitcase that has a basket of flowers on it.  It's easy for him to pull himself up and he liked pulling at the flowers.  When I got tired of chasing him I would put him in his activity seat.  He got wore out a few times and took some short naps.  I didn't accomplish anything.  I took a book to read and didn't open it and I also took burpies to crochet and didn't work on them either.  I enjoyed playing with Behr.

We played Patty Cake a few times and he loves when we "roll it" and "pull it" and will giggle and wrinkle his little nose every time.

We went for a walk and Carla stopped by and came with us.  Just as we started my arm started to itch and I looked down and noticed that a bunch of capillaries had popped and were in the shape of a heart.  I think it's so bizarre and do not like it one bit.  I think I'm too young to have this happening!  I might be known for wearing long sleeves all year, or arm sleeves.

I taught Carla how to crochet around some bibs that we went and bought and then I took the boys to my house to play.  Behr stayed up a long time and when he finally did go down it wasn't for long.  Behr loves Zaden and liked doing what he was....playing the Wii.

It was fun watching the kids!  I sure adore them all so much.

I went to SNAP as soon as Trichelle came to get the boys.  I had been wondering about a few things with the production and was going to talk to Angie about them but didn't need to because she answered my questions immediately without me even asking.  I had wondered if I had a place I was suppose to be sitting and also if I was suppose to be helping with anything particular.  I knew the other leaders had been assigned seats and jobs but I didn't think I had.  I had just been making sure the other leaders were helping the kids when needed.  Angie noticed those exact things earlier this day.  She hadn't given me an assignment or chair and made those adjustments.  I was happy about it all.  It's going to be a fun little production.

Spring...a Wonderful Season

I always take pictures of the Beautiful Temple but today I thought I'd take pictures of what I see going in and coming out of the Temple.  The flowers have bloomed and are gorgeous.  This is the time of Spring that I love.  I love after the rains and when the flowers are blooming and baby animals can been seen in the fields.  I love this time of spring when the grass is green and the trees have blossoms of different colors.  Springtime makes my heart happy.  Today at the Temple I learned about names being changed.  Like you could have a Johnson who was John's son and then one of those kids might have a last name of Larson because his father was Lars and it can change over and over.  This kind of name changing has a name but I can't remember it.  I did hear a funny name that made me giggle.  It was a girl and her last name was Redhead.  I always feel the spirit and some from the other side of the veil if I am still and just feel.  It's a wonderful feeling.  I really enjoy starting each Wednesday at the Temple.  I love seeing workers there that I know.  Often I see Mindy Maughn's mom and get a hug from her....that happened today.  I also saw my friend Rhonda Hone as I was going in the Temple she was coming out.  I haven't seen Rhonda for years but recognized her beautiful smile.  I stopped and got a hug from her before going in.  I love my friends from the past and enjoy seeing them again.

Carla and I were planning on walking but after listening to Lisea talk about everything she was doing for her ward party that was happening on her birthday I thought it would be nice to do something for Lisea.  Carla and I went to her house and weeded her flower garden in the front of her house.  It has pretty flowers in it but it had a lot of weeds and so Carla and I got them out.  That was good exercise and I felt so good doing it.  Carla's a sweetie and enjoys that kind of work and so we are going to work on my yard next week.  After weeding Lisea's flowers we decided to get some lunch.  We would have taken Lisea with us but she was having a Root Canal.  We ended up at the Olive Garden because Carla had  a certificate.  It didn't end up costing us anything.  Woo Hoo!

The Pioneer Trails Stake was having a dress rehearsal for their Relief Society Social and a few people had invited me to go with them.  Kathy Moore had invited us at our game day on Monday and that's when I decided I would love to go.  Then Lisea invited me on Wednesday morning and Kathy Orrock called me a few hours before.  I ended up sitting with Kathy Orrock and Kathy Moore ended up resting since she had been gone all day enjoying her daughter and grands in Wyoming.  The play was about the Ten Virgins and was really wonderful.  Sue Winter was the narrator and was fabulous.  She had a few solo's and did such a great job.  I learned that Sue and Alan are moving this weekend.  I knew it was coming but didn't know it was so soon.  I cried a little.  Lorretta was one of the wise Virgins and did an awesome job too.  Everyone did great and the place was decorated perfectly.  They go all out and make everything so nice.  I was glad that I had the opportunity to go since  I don't get to go to our things because they are usually on Thursday nights.

Today was a really great day.  One of those that makes you feel wonderful from the time you get up to the time you go to bed.  Pretty much perfect.

Visiting Teaching and Kids

I got up and made cookies since I was going to visit Crystal and my visiting teachers were coming a little later.  Actually I had frozen cookie dough that I cooked.  The cookies were great and no one complained.  I love giving everyone treats each month.  It makes me happy to do so. I love visiting teaching and I love the sisters I go to and the ones that come to me.  It's been a nice change and I'm loving it.  I have to really watch the time when I go visiting because Crystal and Linda are so easy to talk to and the time will fly right by if I don't watch carefully.  (I didn't watch as well last week when I visited Linda...I was trying to even)

Kimi wanted to go to Jimmy Johns for lunch and so we ran and got us a sandwich. I'm glad that Kimi enjoys hanging out with her mommy.  She's a sweetheart and makes me happy.

On our way home when we drove by the elementary school the kids were out playing and so we looked for Mya.  We spotted her and watched her as we rounded the corner.  Just after turning she spotted us and pointed and started running just as fast as she could.  I pulled right over and got out to go give her a big hug.  While I was hugging her I looked up and saw Barbie's little grand, Ayzlee and so I gave her a hug too.  Then like a magnet little girls gathered.  Soon there were at least 20 little girls gathered around all smiling and cute.  I got a little choked up at their cuteness and my love for little children.  Oh how I love them all...especially the ones that call me gramma.

The Gaming Gals

Today Carla and I started a group that plays games together every week.  Since I like to name my groups of friends I am calling this group the "Gaming Gals".  I think it will be a fun way to start the week.

Today we played 5 Crowns a few times.  I could play this game every week and since it's Carla's favorite we just might. ☺  I invited more gals to come play and hopefully each week we will have more cute faces in our pictures.  This is not a "tick tock the game is locked" group and anyone is welcome to join us.  I always worry just a little about leaving someone out.

Carla loves to host get togethers and is truly the hostess with the mostest.  She had grapes on the table for us to munch on and served little sandwiches too.  She's such a kind and caring gal.  When I suggested we take turns bringing little treats she quickly said she wouldn't mind just doing it every week.  Well....I mind.  I think having it at her house is plenty for her.

Carla, Julie and I went and ran some errands afterwards and so our playing together lasted more than a few hours. I like having fun and doing fun things.  Sometimes that can be a problem though because sometimes others think you are mad at them if you aren't calling them to do something often enough.  That Satan guy always finds an opportunity to mess with a good thing.

Celebrating Braxton and Kelsi

We had a great time taking Kelsi and Braxton to dinner for their birthdays.  Since we celebrate both kids Kelsi chose to go to the Greenery.  I usually go there for lunch but their dinners are really good too.  Braxton and Larry got Burgers and were filled.  We also got a few mormon muffins before our meal came.  I got their salad bar and I think that was the first time, maybe the second, that I have had their salad bar and it was good.  Anyway all our meals filled us up.

Braxton wanted to go bowling too and so we went to Fat Cats.  That is the place to be on a Saturday Night.  People were everywhere and it was fun.  We had a good time bowling. We even bowled with the lights out with just lights on the lanes...that was weird but fun.  Kelsi was the most improved bowler.  She doubled her score from her first game.  She tried something new and it worked.  I had a good time.  I loved the loud music and all the commotion.  I was having so much fun I even tried photo bombing the group next to us when they were leaving and were getting a group picture.  I think I was too late but it was funny trying. ☺

I love these two.  They are so cute together and add so much happiness to our family!

Huntsville BBQ

Jodi and I took advantage of Ogden Restaurant week again today.  We went to the Huntsville BBQ in Ogden.  It was so delicious and it is not a secret.  The place was packed and people hovered over tables to get a seat.  I took Kimleighel with me but she didn't want to be in pictures with us. (she gladly took ours)  I think that is funny as I type this because Kimi is always taking selfies of herself and posting them on Snapchat and Instagram.  I guess we're fun enough to hang out with but too old to have a picture with. ☺  We chose the turkey, cream corn and either steak fries or salad and it was all yummy.  I loved the turkey and would even say it was the best I have ever had.  It was so tender and juicy.  It was a quick lunch date since others wanted our table and Jodi had lots of running to do.  Quick or Not....I enjoyed our time together again.  I ♥ Jodi!

Food 4 Thought Friday

Food 4 Thought Friday! 

A little feast without the calories!! 

Feel free to play along for some yummy fun! Go HERE toJOIN IN!!! 

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FAVORITES 

Breakfast ~ What is your favorite quote? Oh My Heck...I LOVE Quotes!  I have so many favorites depending on the day.  Here's one I made up, one that makes me happy all over, and one simple and profound!

 

Lunch ~ What's you favorite line from any movie? I love the Movie Elf and a lot of lines from it but my favorite is probably ..... "I just like to Smile, Smiling is My Favorite"

Dinner ~ What is your favorite weird food combination? I actually tried peanut butter on a dill pickle and liked it.  Peaches and Cream flavoring in a Coke is good!  Toasted tuna fish sandwich and tomato soup.

Midnight Snack ~ What is your favorite time of day? I think that depends on the day.  I enjoy mornings and get the most done in the mornings.  I find myself resting in the afternoons if I get a chance, so afternoons are nice.  I like the evenings because the family is home and we are together.  I love bed time and being done for another day!

Recipe for the Week ~  (instead of your recipe for life, what is it just for the week?)  Be Happy with the Things You Do Accomplish!  some times I think we focus too much on what we didn't get done instead of all the things we did.

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Strike Strike Baby

Today was probably my best bowling day ever!  All three games were over my average and very close to each other.  My first game was a 186, second a 185, and third a 183 for a total series of 554! Woot Woot! I had fun and our team took all four games. We all bowled pretty good today. (3 games and total pins)  You'd think I could bowl good more often but just last week my fist game was a 101.  The next two games were pretty good though.  I probably should throw a few practice bowls instead of using my first game to warm up.  ☺ A few weeks ago or even a month ago I think I only got about an 89....my lowest game since I started bowling with the ladies. (over 10 years ago) So I am pretty consistent at being inconsistent. I use to write down all my scores but I quit doing that a few years ago and that is why I keep it here when it's worth remembering.

Braxton My Son is 27

I think about this middle child of mine and the word that pops in my head is "FUN".  Braxton has always been a child that makes fun happen.  He is adventurous and isn't afraid to try anything which has caused me concern a few times over the years. Braxton makes me laugh out loud a lot and I like that.  Braxton plays hard but Braxton also works hard.  Braxton is such a hard worker and just like playing will try anything.  He's not afraid to try new things or figure something out.  Braxton is one of the first ones called if Gramps needs help.  Braxton is dependable.  Braxton is also a sensitive soul.  He is so caring and kind.  Braxton truly cares about those around him.  Braxton has grown up well and I couldn't be more proud of him.

Braxton is a loving husband and a very involved daddy to Sadie.  I smile that my kids are doing so much better than we were doing at their age or stage of life and I think we did okay.  I adore this child of mine and I'm glad that it was I that had to remind him to put things away.  I'm glad I was the one that had to constantly buy him new socks because he would run around without his shoes.  I'm thankful that he forgave me for head thumping him with my head when my hormones were unbalanced.  I'm thankful that he is happy and confident in spite of Larry and I constantly getting after him for one thing or another.

Braxton has always been a fun and enjoyable kid.  He is positioned perfectly in our family to be a friend and an example to all of his siblings!   I'm glad I am that one that calls him my son!  Love Him!

Rainy Wednesday

I love our Temples!  I love going every Wednesday to do Sealings.  I was wondering and even praying if I should go with the group since some of us are sitting during the hour we spend there.  I wondered if I should be doing something else instead.  I had a wonderful experience and I am where I need to be.  Even if I just sit and wait for my turn at the alter again I am feeling the spirit and receiving inspiration.  It's a wonderful feeling being in the Temple no matter what we are doing.  I know that the sealing ordination is very important and a very big deal, the Spirit told me that again today.  I felt others attending today and even though I believe they are always there I will honestly say I don't always feel them.  I love starting my Wednesdays at the Temple.

It's a rainy, spring day and I couldn't help but sing "I love the Rainy Days".  I love the rain in the spring.  When it rains I feel like reading a book or watching a movie.  I decided to take Kimleighel to see Saturday's Warrior.  It's a good story and "Heaven" was filmed at our very own Union Station.  I thought that was weird but it didn't take away from the story or spirit of the movie.  There were a few funny "mormon" things.  At the airport we heard over the loud speaker a call for Captain Uchtdorf.  Then when Julie was making a promise to her missionary to wait for him she said that even if Donny Osmond proposed to her she would wait.  It's a bit corny as far as acting but I still enjoyed it.

Fun Bunch Lunch

It's Ogden Restaurant Week and so the fun bunch decided to take advantage of a few great specials.  We met at the Prairie Schooner today and had a great time. Jodi thought it'd be fun to dress up like cowgirls which of course is kind of hard to do if you don't own horses. I am just glad that I live by the Hodson's who have lots of girls that Rodeo.  I borrowed some cute boots, a belt with bling and a few hats.  (I had enough for everyone)  I think we looked pretty cute! ☺

Of course with this group we look for Kodak moments and found a few today.  We really do have a great time together.  I'm so glad that we take the time to have fun together every month.  I love hanging with these gals.    Yee Haw!

The specials are really good, two courses for $10.  I got a salad and salmon and it was so yummy.  The company is the best part though.  It's fun learning more about each other.  Chris told us about all the wonderful places she is going to travel to this summer.  Patti just got a job at Jet Blue and so she will be able to fly around some fun places too.  She also told us about a cool invention her hubby invented.  It's a head band for people that have to wear oxygen all the time.  It holds the oxygen tubes so they are more comfortable on the face and ears.  Jodi shared how loved her cute hubby is.  He's a looker and some women from his ward and stake really like him.  I know it's also because he is such a wonderful leader.  There are perks for Jodi though because of it....plus she is really easy to love too!  Kathy puts on a happy face and makes fun happen even though her health concerns her.  Then there's me....just happy to be!

Awesome Sunday

Today could have been stressful.  I was asked earlier this week to teach the Gospel Doctrine Class in our Ward.  I declined the invitation (haha) since I didn't feel like I would have the time I needed to prepare.  (it was a busy week)  Then I was asked again while we were at the Eskelson's celebrating with them (around 9:00;pm) if I could teach a Sunday school class for the 15 year olds.  I was thankful that another text was sent saying never mind.  I was exhausted and didn't want to prepare a lesson.  Good News is I was able to enjoy my meetings.  The teacher that did teach the Gospel Doctrine Class was excellent and didn't seem nervous at all. I was so glad it was Lori instead of me and the lesson was much better than I would have done.

When we got home we got a visitor.  Sarah came to spend some time with us.  We had planned on having her over for dinner but there was some miscommunication and so we had her over for lunch instead.  It was nice visiting with her.  We even played cards.  Sarah loves playing games.  We enjoyed her for about three hours before she left so she could see some more of her favorite Hooperites.  Kelsi (Sister Hansen) surprised us later in the evening.  I was in my night gown and my makeup was removed and contacts out when she popped in.  We kind of got close to these two when they served here in Hooper.  

We enjoyed most of our family today.  Trichelle's family didn't make it today and I think they were doing something fun for spring break.  After eating and visiting for awhile Kevin and Julie invited everyone to play at the new playground that has just been put in at Busy Bee Day Care.  Julie's sister Jen decided to have a few people over to try out the new playground before their grand opening next week. (Jen runs the daycare)  Everyone had a blast including my big kids!  It's such a nice playground and there were different sections for different age groups.  Super Duper Nice!

We came home and played some cards with Jared.  That has become a Sunday tradition.  Games with our kids after everyone leaves and before we head to bed.  I enjoy playing games together so much more than watching TV.

The Eskelson's Sealing

We have had the privilege of getting to know Shelly and Randy Eskelson better this past year.  We knew Shelly from years ago but have really gotten to know her this last year.  Shelly tells her story of when she was praying to Heavenly Father to help her.  She had promised Him that she would do anything He asked if He would answer her prayer and help her.  Before desperately praying Shelly had gone to many different churches in hopes of finding one that wasn't so time consuming that would still help her be close to God.  However, just shortly after her sincere and heart pleading prayer one day there was a knock at her door.  There stood the Sister Missionaries.  Shelly said she looked up to God and said something like No..Not the Mormons.  But there was no denying that her prayer was being answered.  Shelly fell in love with Sister Hansen and Sister Frazier and they fell in love with her.  It wasn't long and Shelly was entering the Temple for herself.  Her commitment to the Lord is incredible.  She spoke at Sister Hansen's farewell testimony meeting in Logan and even had the opportunity to speak in our Stake Conference at our Saturday session.  That is not something she ever wanted to do but did because she had promised the Lord she would do anything he asked of her.  After speaking in our conference her hubby continued to attend church even on the weeks Shelly was out of town.  His spirit was strengthened and last night Randy went through the Temple to receive his endowments.  Today Shelly and Randy were sealed for Time and All Eternity.  Larry and I had the privilege of being there with them.  The Angel Sister Missionaries both flew in to be with them as well.  It was so wonderful to spend time with Kelsi and Sarah (Sister Hansen and Sister Frazier).  Today was a payday for all the time they spent and for being in tune and being where they were suppose to be.  It was a glorious day.  We ended up at the Eskelson's enjoying their friends with them the rest of the night.

Sleepover

Every Conference we have a sleepover with the grands.  It all started when we would go out to dinner after the Priesthood Session on Saturday night and the grands would ask if they could sleep over.  We let them but since it was so late already they really just came home with us and went to bed.  A few years ago I decided to have them over on a Friday when they all could come so they could enjoy each other longer.  It's a lot more fun having more time together.  I told the kids they could come at 4:00.  I was sure I would be home from book club by then and they could have 5 hours to play before having to go to bed.  They all got to my house before I did.....I think they were excited.  It was a nice weekend and so they had a great time playing together.

This was Macie and Jordyn's first time joining the big kids.  We decided that once the grands were old enough to realize they were missing out then they were old enough to join us.  It was fun having the two little girls but I will say that they don't understand what it means to be rewarded for going to sleep quickly. ☺

Before I forgot we took a few pictures together.  All the grands were much more interested in playing so we hurried and then they were off.

The older girls like playing house and school.  They all really enjoyed the big boxes we had from our new chairs and made homes out of them.  It's fun for me to watch them be creative and use their imaginations.  The boys had a box of their own and had a good time poking, cutting, taping and decorating it. They also enjoyed playing the Wii until Parker lost his remote into the TV.  He was playing baseball and his "bat" flew right out of his hand and into the TV.  I was standing right behind him and saw the whole thing and couldn't figure out where the broken glass was that I heard.  It turned out the the glass was broken inside the TV, behind the screen.  Oopsie!  I reassured Parker that it was an accident and no one was in trouble.  It was nice having the TV off the rest of the night 

actually. 

I decided that we would have breakfast for dinner and just have cereal in the morning.  I cooked a bunch of bacon and sliced some oranges and got a bowl of peaches ready while Kimleighel made everyone Captain America Waffles. Kimi is so cute to help out.  The kids all enjoyed their breakfast/dinner!  I enjoyed having the mess on Friday instead of Saturday.  On Saturday's I like to get everything back to order.

My grands like to create and they look forward to me having something for them to do.  I was pretty sure I had lunch sacks in the pantry and so I had them make puppets.  We had paper, pens, crayons, scissors, punches, and glue sticks scattered all over the table and the kids got creative.  They had a really good time and made some really cute puppets.

They were all really good to help clean everything up afterwards.  With everyone helping the mess was cleaned up quickly.  Man, it's nice having older grands that help.

Everyone got ready for bed and then we had a few puppet shows.  They made me laugh.  The girls cut holes in their puppets so they could eat bacon and they all did.  It was pretty clever and funny.  The boys fought with their puppets. ☺  So funny the difference between boys and girls.

I wanted to have the grands in bed by 9:00 since Kamryn had a early soccer game.  We did well and I believe everyone was actually asleep by 9:30.  I reward the kids with books if they go to sleep good.  I have so many books from my kids and this is a fun way to get rid of them.  Kamryn asked me what happened if they didn't go to bed good which made me laugh and caught me off guard.  I just told her she wouldn't get a book.  All the older kids settled right down and were still and quiet.  The two little girls were wiggly.  Macie had her feet up on the couch and Jordy kept situating her babies.  I decided to rub Macie's back to help her settle down and after about 10 minutes she was asleep.  Jordy had been laying down but got back up and so I went over to rub her back and seriously within a minute she was also asleep.  The only one still moving was Mya, who just couldn't get comfortable.  She moved to the couch and I rubbed her back for her.  By the time everyone was asleep Larry got home.

Larry went to the Temple with a friend who was taking out his endowments so he could be sealed to his sweetie. (more on another post)
 
In the morning they all got to choose a book.  They find some good books that I forgot we had.  The one that cracked me up was Macie's.  She chose a Goosebumps book and didn't even consider a cute picture book when we tried a few times to change her mind. haha (she's 2)

I love our Conference Sleepover Tradition.  The kids have so much fun and we are making some fun memories.  I'm so addicted to these little ones.  I always feel a tiny bit of quilt for not letting all the babies stay but remind myself that their time will come and they do get to sleep over at other times.

I enjoy my fun bunch of grands.  They seriously make my heart smile and about burst from all the love it holds for each of them.