I'm Flexible

Today I planned on getting some presents wrapped and to get things cleaned up a little.  The only think I had planned on doing was meeting Mallory at the Fairgrounds where there is a boutique so I could pay her for a piano we got from her.  Last night Trichelle called to see if I could pick up Ivy  from school at 1:00.  No problem...that would work.

I was just getting ready for the day when Larry called to see if I could take the Sister Missionaries a few Church movies.  They have been sick.  No problem...I grabbed a few movies, a soup mix, some chicken, a brownie mix, some hot chocolate and off I went.   I told them I brought them dinner with their movies but they would have to cook it.

I got a text from a friend asking me to stop by the bowling alley to check on another friend that wasn't doing to good.  Okay...I can do that.  I went up and said "hi" to everyone and got some great hugs and checked on my friend.  She wasn't doing good at all.  I suspect she took a few pills that she shouldn't have and she was really tired.  I asked her how she was feeling and if she was okay.  (My other friend was really worried about her).  She said she was ok and hadn't taken more pills than she normally does for her headaches.  I really wished that I could have stayed around and taken her home.  I think my other friend did because neither of us felt it was safe for the other friend to drive.  I said a few prayers for each of them.

I went home and wrapped a few gifts since that was on my to do list.  I also did a little more laundry.  Ivy called when I was getting ready to go pick her up.  She asked me to pick her up by the Junior High school by the side walk between the two schools.   When she finally got to my car she had a little friend with her that she wanted to come with us so they could play.  I feel bad sometimes that she is split between houses and doesn't get a lot of play time with friends and so I agreed.  The little girls mom works at the Junior High and so we went to ask her if she was okay with it.  She was and so off we went.  I had thought that the girls could stay home while I ran to meet Mal  but Jared stayed after school and so I told them they could just come with me.  I was on my way when Jared text and said he was done at school and ready to be picked up.  Okay...I switched my plans again.  At some point I told Ivy girls need to learn to be flexible.  It's a requirement to be a mom.  She laughed and said we weren't Elastic Girl.  I told her we needed to be because things are always changing from the original plan.  I think it probably happens more with stay at home mom's since we just stay at home (wink)...we can add stuff to our day...we're not that busy! haha

I picked up Jared and was able to meet Mallory and pay her.  I didn't get charged for any of the kids to go inside the boutique which was really nice.  I got a few gifts even and enjoyed the little time we were there. On the way home I was going to stop for gas and TJ called to see if I had Ivy.  I told him yes and I even had Audrey. ☺  He wanted me to bring them home which is kind of on the way.  I told him I was going to stop for gas and asked him to ask Zaden what kind of treat he wanted because I was letting the others pick a treat.  Zaden went into a meltdown.  I wasn't sure why and thought that maybe he wanted to come with us to pick his treat.  I kept passing the gas stations waiting for him to decide.  We ended up stopping and just getting him a treat and I took the girls home.

Today I was able to laugh at the confusion and changes in my plans.  I still got plenty done because I am flexible like that. ☺

We Have Talent!

We had a talent show for our Special Needs Group.   I love how excited they are to share their talents with the others.  I didn't get a picture of everything...one guy builds really cool things with legos.  We had Elvis again with his back up dancers. Kyle loves Elvis.  We also had Johnny Cash.  I get a kick out of these people.  My favorite singer was Levi.  This kid is amazing at the piano and also singing.  He is very talented.  I heard that something happened when Levi was little that changed him.  He's awesome.  

 We had a kid tell a joke.  Jessica  played Jingle Bells on her clarinet.  We had a karate demonstration, and Steve sang Once there was a Snowman while a little guy acted out the motions.  It love seeing the talents and watching the kids participate.

Some talents were displayed.  I had no idea that Lisa could paint so well.  It's  fun learning more and more about each of these people and I constantly do.

Connor wanted me to sit by him and hold his hand.  My heart goes out to Connor with the passing of his mom.  The kid is so full of love!  He kissed me a few times while we watched the talent show.  It took us a few tries to get a picture of us without Connor blinking.  I love this kid and the rest of them.  I am so blessed to have this calling.  I am mingling with the pure in heart every Thursday!

Cousins

It's interesting to me how a funeral of a loved one can cause good things.  My cousin Mike passed away Oct 13 and my cousin Kay called my mom to let her know.  While we were talking to her I told her that my daddy (her uncle) would be joining Mike soon. (he did 3 days later)  Kay told me that she was on Face Book along with some other cousins.  I was able to find Wendy and through her find others including Kay.  Many of my cousins came to my dads funeral...in fact I saw all that are living that week.  Jennifer left before the funeral but stopped by my mom's to visit with us.  It is great reconnecting at this point in our lives.

I made a special group called "Cousins" on Facebook so that we can stay connected and share with each other.  Kristy told me at the funeral that we needed to get together.  I have learned that saying it just isn't enough and so I started the group and threw out a date.

Today a few of us cousins went to lunch.  Starting on the left is Lana, Kristy (Aunt Cleo's daughter), my mom, Linda, Julie, Karen (Aunt Cleo's daughter), me, my sister Susan, and Wendy. (Aunt Venyle's daughter and Mikes sister)  Lana and Linda are sisters and they are Julies cousins.  We are distant cousins and always saw them at the reunions when we had reunions.  It was really wonderful getting together and seeing everyone and being able to visit.  We noticed everyone is shrinking and getting shorter. ☺

Karen noticed that a few of us have similar smiles and chins. Karen also mentioned that she just found out a few years ago that Susan and I aren't twins.  Another cousin, Mindy, who wasn't able to make it mentioned that our Mothers would be so happy.  I hadn't thought about that but when she said it I knew it was true.  My dad and his sisters are all together and I am positive they are happy that we made time to get together and get reacquainted with each other.

I am happy that my mom is still here and was able to come and enjoy her nieces that I know she loves so much.  I have a deep love for families. I am thankful for my cousins and the great ladies they are.  I'm glad we are all pieced together.

(I called my mom's brothers a few years ago and reconnected with them after a very long time...maybe 30+ years....I just think families should know each other)

Weekly Tidbits

We have Ivy and Zaden all week while Trichelle and TJ enjoy Hawaii.  We got to have a few more grands over for a while to play on Monday.  I love when the cousins get to play together.  They love each other and always have such a good time.  I get so much joy and pleasure from their togetherness.  I got to kiss on cute little Jordyn and make her giggle.  All these littles are such good kids.

On Tuesday Ivy goes with her dad and so it was just Zaden and I after school.  We went shopping for his birthday.  I really enjoyed watching him decide on his gifts.  I didn't tell him how much to spend but somehow he knew.  He looked at so many lego's and I'm sure he would have liked a big set but he didn't ask and it wasn't until he got to a spiderman lego car that he decided.  Only then did he say he wished he could have two gifts.  He was under the amount I spend and so I told him he could have two and he was so excited.  We went down another isle and he looked at every thing and when he saw a Batman figurine he grabbed it and was good to go.  I was so proud of him and his choices.  He was so excited to get home and play with them.  I like taking the grands shopping for their birthdays so they can choose what they want.

                                 

We were lucky and had a few more cousins come to play with us on Tuesday.  Justin and Natalie had ward Temple Night and thought they needed to go.  I was more than happy to watch their little one's.  I know Zaden was glad too.  We had so much fun.  My grands like to play in the cold pantry.  I think they are so cute.  I liked watching Macie pull herself all over and play too.  She was cute and put all the small toys around her into the barbie car and then she would get on her hands and knees to see in and take them in and out.  So enjoyable for me to watch her entertain herself.

                                 

Wednesday started out simple.  I only had Zaden to get ready for school after I took Kimi and Jared to the bus stop.  I love the grands in the morning when they are so happy and extra cute. So fun waking up to them. I have enjoyed helping them get ready for the day.  The day got busier as it went on.

We were going to have the missionaries over to teach a friend of ours and so Larry thought it would be a good idea to have treats.  He wanted a cheesecake and so I made one.  I remembered the sisters saying they didn't really care for cheesecake and so I made brownies as well.  I was by myself and so I licked all the beaters by myself.  I later learned that I should have called a few friends over because they would have been happy to help me out. (Wayne got sick and so we had to reschedule)

Part of Larry's calling as a High Councilman is the Blood Drive.  I've helped him make lists and I even went over and helped check in a few people when it started.  I had to leave though to pick up the grands.  Ivy and Zaden both had dance classes tonight and so I would take one and wait an hour and then go pick up that child and drop off the next one.  In between I stopped and got some pizza and took some to Larry.  I let Zaden choose our meals this week since he is a bit picky and I wanted him to eat.  He loved the pizza and even had some for breakfast the next day.  I let him have mac and cheese another day for breakfast.  I did make pancakes and french toast a few days when they wanted it.  It was a busy but fun day.

Instead of bowling on Thursday I went to Connor's moms funeral.  Connor is my buddy and he really wanted me to be there.  I'm glad I was.  I love hearing about those who pass.  There is always so much more than I knew.  Connie (Connors mom) has been sick since I have known her which is probably about 10 years.  She had a happy attitude and joked through all her sickness.  She was a great person.  Connor loves his mom so much and understands where she is and that she will be in his heart always.  My heart went out to sweet Connor when he had a hard time as he helped close the casket for it's last time.  He had asked me to help with that but I told him it wasn't my place but I would be close by.  He got a little angry with his family which made me think about my post a while back about our emotions....how we cover our feelings with different emotions.  Connor was sad and didn't want to cry.  I was proud of him for only letting that emotion last for a minute.  He got to say a few words at the end of the service and he did such a fabulous job.  I know his mom is very proud of him.  I love this sweet friend of mine. ♥

While I was at the graveside freezing I got a text from a friend saying that she had left something for me by my front door.  When I went home I got me some hot chocolate after changing my clothes and I opened the gift. I just let the tears flow.  My daddy is my hero and always has been.  I often wonder about my "dash".  I wonder what I will be remembered for and if I will have done enough.  People are so kind and thoughtful!

I met Mallory for a late lunch.  We always meet at 3:00 at Applebee's. I always enjoy visiting with Mallory.  When we were raising our kids we met every week.  Now it's not as often but when we do it's always very enjoyable.  I love this friend of mine and her wisdom.  She is so awesome and inspires me to be better.  Mallory is so ambitious and does so much all the time.  Right now her and her hubby and a few of her boys are fixing up her mom's house. She does it after working all day. She's amazing in so many ways.  I sure do love her!

 After my lunch date with Mallory I picked up Zaden and we were surprised with this cute greeting when we got home.  We both let out an excited cheer and couldn't wait to get out and walk through it. Larry is full of surprises lately!

I wasn't able to take Connor to SNAP like he had hoped because his dad wanted him to stay home.  I told Connor his family needed him because he is so strong.  He was kind of sad that he wasn't able to go to SNAP to tell his friends about his mom. I was sad for him.  I love going to SNAP.  I love getting big hugs and being told "I like you" inches from my face.  I love seeing how those that come enjoy coming.  I'm so glad that I am blessed to be a part of this amazing group of people.  They make my ♥ smile!

When I got home from SNAP this is what I found.  Zaden loves his grandpa and was getting some snuggle time with him.  This also makes my heart smile and my soul light up.

I went to Breakfast Friday morning with my book club.  No picture because when I called Kathy to see why she was late she had forgot and hurried up without getting fully ready. (she is taking care of grands this week too but in their home so it messed her up)  Last month I read the Message and A Step of Faith.  I had read A Step of Faith before but had thought it was the next book in the series.  It's a good series. (The Walk)  I loved The Message and read it while I was at my parents taking care of my dad.  It was the perfect time to read this book.  The message is simple....Serve Others!  This month I read The Dash that was given to me and will be reading The Giver.  I love reading.  My mind is enlightened when I read and so is my spirit.  I love our book club.  We share much more than plots and characters of books.  We share our lives with each other.  It's a blessing to me to belong to this book club.  I am smarter since we started our book club.  Oh, The Power of a Good Book!

Saturday our Stake had a missionary day for the youth.  I signed up to have missionaries come to our house to teach us.  Oh My Heck....these three cute gals came to my door and two of them signed while the other one introduced themselves.  The "spirit" hit me before I opened the door and I had to hold back my emotions from the start.  I let them in and was just asking them about their day while we waited for Larry and Kimi to join us. (they were dropping off other "Missionaries") I couldn't hold back any longer and started to cry.  I cry when I feel the spirit.  The spirit was so strong.  I testified to these sisters that what they had been taught was true.  I couldn't believe what a strong spirit they brought into our home.  A few of them got teary too.  Larry and Kimi weren't long and I was glad they got there since I was having a hard time controlling my emotions.  The sisters did a wonderful job teaching us about the restoration of the Church.  I'm converted!  One sister shared that she doesn't go to church because she doesn't have anything to wear.  I was instantly reminded of a new skirt and shirt that I had just bought.  (the tags were still on them)  The skirt was a maxi skirt and so even though I am much older it would be great for her.  I gave her the shirt too because it matched.  (I think the shirt might be too large but maybe she can get it to work)  She was thrilled and gave me a big hug.  Kimi was feeling the spirit too and went up and got two dresses to give her.  It was cool! Each of the gals bore their testimony and I was so impressed.  They are awesome! I volunteered to make a dish to help feed the missionaries.  I chose to make Penne Alfredo from Italy. (easy and feeling)  I'm so glad my kids took part in this wonderful activity.  I know their testimonies will be strengthened as mine as been.  I love belonging to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints!  It's True and Complete!

I ran to my moms house with Jaydan to try and start his car.  The battery is really dead and we couldn't even jump it and so we visited with my mom and came home.

Angel Baby surrounded by Angels

Today Macie had surgery to repair her soft palate and have another plate put in the roof of her mouth.  I was concerned for her and asked others to please pray for her.  Prayers are so powerful and wonderful.  We know that little Macie Marie is surrounded by Angels and that the prayers in her behalf are heard and answered.  I was a little worried that she would be hungry because her surgery wasn't until after 3:00 pm.  I prayed that she wouldn't be hungry and that everything would go well.  Since Larry had a day off we decided to go to the Hospital and stay with Justin and Natalie.  It was a good decision.  I marveled at cute Macie.  She had her last bottle of formula at 7:00 am and only had a little pedialyte before noon.  This little one was happy and so good while we all waited for her turn.  I know the prayers said for her were being answered.  When it was her turn to go she went with the Anesthesiologist with out any worries.  The stethoscope was a great distraction.

Macie's surgery went really well.  A few doctors came out to report how things went.  Macie also got tubes in her ears and we feel like it was a blessing she got her first ear infection last week.  I'm not sure her ears would have been looked at if not and the tubes will help.  I was very impressed with the Doctor that did the surgery on her palate.  To him it's so simple and easy to do.  He truly is an answer to Justin and Natalie's prayers.  I loved meeting him and know that Macie is in really good hands.  Macie started eating right away and continue eating through the night.  The nurses were amazed at how well she has done.  Her first surgery she only stayed one night and I suspect it will be the same with this one.  Many kids stay a few nights until they can eat without any IV...Macie is doing that.  I know it's the prayers!  I asked Heavenly Father to please bless everyone that has prayed for Macie and our family.  I hope that everyone that has kept us in their prayers will notice a special blessing given to them.

Another neat thing that happened.  TJ trailers gifted Justin and Natalie with some $$$ since our Insurance stinks.  We continue to find out we always have more to pay.  Anyway a few weeks ago Justin had a special experience of following the spirit and giving all he had and because of it he was blessed by the business.  I had a strong impression that the business will be blessed also.  I know we are but I'm going to watch for it.  

I love Heavenly Father and His plan for each of us.  I love how his plan involves each of us and how it is through others we are blessed and through us others are blessed.  Heavenly Father is so kind to let us all be a part of this.  I notice more and more how very involved we really are.  It's so cool!

He Loves Me

Today I got up and got the grands ready for school and took them.  I had a half hour to stop at Hobby Lobby to look for a frame to put a picture in for Connor. (his mom passed on Monday)  I found what I wanted and ended up getting a few things to go with the Temple pictures I am making for the grands for Christmas.  I was a little late getting to Mindy's to pick her up so we could go visiting teaching.  We got back on schedule and had nice visits with our new sisters.  Mindy is now my partner instead of visiting teacher and we go visit Jill and Courtnie.  I needed a change and this seem like a good one.  I had little treat bags and a book mark for them.  We had great visits with both of these gals and we will try to catch Shelley another evening since she works every day.

I was meeting the "Fun Bunch" for lunch and decided to stop by home first to go potty.  There was a note on my door saying that I had missed the delivery guy from a flower shop.  I could either reschedule a time or pick them up.  I decided since I was going to be in town I would just pick them up.  I was shocked when they brought out this huge arrangement of roses.  I bet my mouth was opened a little before I broke into a huge smile.  These were for me.  The gal helping me asked if it was my birthday or anniversary and I just smiled and said no...neither.  I couldn't believe all the roses...4 dozen.  They are so pretty and smell so wonderful.  I was just as surprised when she handed me a cute little bag.  I asked her if that was mine too and she said it was.  Flowers and Chocolate...the hubby loves me!  The card said: "You're the Very Best".  Boy or Boy...I'm not sure what I have done or need to do but this seriously made my day.  I thought again about people that say that flowers from their sweetheart are a waste of money.  Well this gesture of love means so much to me.  I thought about how I would have felt if I had just been given the money.  There is something wonderful about seeing these beautiful flowers and putting my nose in them to smell them that can't be replaced with money.  It's a wonderful way to say I LOVE YOU!  And the chocolate just topped it all off.  I love being loved by my sweet hubby.  I had a crazy thought pass my mind....I wondered if these would be my last flowers.  I don't feel like they will be but I did call Larry and tell him he'd better not die any time soon.  He's wonderful and I apparently he thinks I am too!

Lunch with the Fun Bunch

I love that we meet once a month for lunch.  I love getting together with these wonderful friends.  We met at the Pelican today and even though we had heard bad reviews we went and thought it was good.  I always enjoy myself with this bunch and just feel good when I leave.   

 Today was also Veteran's Day and even though I have always felt very grateful for all those that have served and do serve for our country this year I felt different.  I have more appreciation and gratitude for each and everyone of them and their families.  I wonder if it's because I slowly see our freedoms being taken from us.  Insurance is something we don't get to choose anymore. Everyone is forced to comply with the President and his demands.  It's an awful feeling and makes me so grateful for all the freedoms that have been fought for that I have always enjoyed and taken for granted. We as a Country have been blessed because of our Soldiers and I greatly appreciate them all. Carla's hubby is a Veteran and got to eat for free with others who have served right next to this place.  He came over and took some fun pictures after.

I had to make up another collage because there were a few times we were told to put on our silly faces and this is what we got.  Really?  It makes me laugh and really there is one more pic that belongs in her that I slipped in another collage.  Jodi wasn't ready and had a silly face and for some reason I was laughing as if I knew she was going to get caught with that expression.  This group really is sillier than they look.  I love them and I'm so thankful for each one and the friendships that we have.