Fun During Piano Lessons

I'm not sure that piano lessons in the evening are working out too well. I only say that because my cute grands like staying up with me instead of going to bed.  It makes me feel good but it might make the mornings harder.  I love these cuties and I'm so glad that they love this gramma too!

Graduation of Kimleighel

Hip Hip Hooray It's Graduation Day!

What an exciting day as we watched Kimleighel graduate from High School.  Kimleighel has worked hard and has proven that she can do hard things.  Kimleighel enjoyed school even though it was harder for her than most.  We learned early that Kimleighel is Dyslexic and has a harder time comprehending the typical way of teaching.  Kimleighel is a problem solver and has a strong will to do things good and because of those qualities she will succeed in life.  Kimleighel has always been very observant.  Early in her life (like around 5 years) she noticed the other kids were getting their ABC's and wondered why it was hard for her.  It made her mad that she wasn't getting them. She even asked me if she was dumb....I laughed and told her that she wasn't dumb at all and that she was very smart because if she were dumb she wouldn't have even noticed that there was a difference.  At that time Kimleighel could cross the monkey bars going forward and backward and I pointed out to her that the other kids couldn't.  We talked a lot over the years about how the brain works different for each of us.  How we all have strengths in different areas.  I don't think it's that easy to accept while you're going to school and so much focus in on a grade or percentage.  Kimleighel was shunned by other kids because she was in resource and that is just hard...all because she learned different.  But....in spite of those challenges she kept smiling and pushed her way through and we are very proud of her and her accomplishments.  Kimleighel is a beautiful young lady, inside and out...and one smart cookie!

As the Principle spoke I was reminded of the unfairness sometimes that the kids face.  The Principle had students stand who were on the honor rolls, or lettered in sports, or were involved in clubs and there sat my beautiful daughter with a few others for all to see.  Now I'm sure that the others there were noticing their students whether they were standing or not but it broke my heart that Kimleighel wasn't able to stand  because she didn't "meet" the credentials being spoken of.  It didn't matter that she has worked hard and has gotten very frustrated because she struggles with reading a sentence and understanding it which is required in every single class.  I don't take reading for granted but I think many do.  Kimleighel didn't ask for much help over the years even though she could have...she just continued to do her best by herself.  The principle didn't ask for those kids to stand.  Kimleighel was fine with not standing....it bothered me more.  Because of this challenge and getting to experience what this side feels like I appreciate all for giving their best whether it allows them to stand or not.  They weren't sitting because they were lazy or didn't try....some of us are just wired different.

I'm grateful for the love and support our kids and family get from others.  I thought it was cool that Kevin brought his girls and Julie hurried after work to be there for Kimleighel.  I appreciate Gramps for always being there for us.  We understand and don't expect everyone to come but when they do it's appreciated.  Trichelle's family met us for dinner afterwards and that was also very nice of them.  I know it meant a lot to Kimleighel.  It's wonderful having another graduate! (only one to go ☺yes at this point I am counting down)

People ask, what now for Kimleighel?  Kimleighel is going to continue to work at Freedom Elementary.  She has also already lined up Cello lessons and will be starting them very soon.  Her goal is to play in a Symphony or Local Orchestra.  I am excited for her to take Cello lessons because she has done well without taking any.  She "gets" the Cello and music and will blossom quickly.  I'm so Proud of Kimleighel!

Book Club

It's so hard to get our book club together but we did it today before Kimi's graduation.  We talked about a few books and a few of the books that I brought were borrowed by the others.  I didn't bring home a new book but I bought a few books recently that I am excited to read.  I just think right now that it's hard to find time to even read.  I think that's true for the others as well because no one is reading too much right now.  I'm glad that even though we aren't all busy reading that we still get together.  This group and our friendship means a lot to me.  I learn so much from each of my friends and I'm thankful to be a part of this group.

I have spent a lot of time on making a few books lately.  I made a picture book of our family's activities for 2014.  It's just pictures but took quite a bit of time. I really like it and now I want to go back and make one for 2013 and the previous years. I need to start my blog book since I am making a part 1 and a part 2 for this year.  The first half of the year is almost over and I need to put my blog into a book.  I love the books that I have made and I hope that others will like and appreciate them as well.

Seminary Graduation

I'm so proud of Kimleighel and all her accomplishments.  In truth Kimleighel wasn't excited about attending Seminary Graduation.  She always gets nervous to the point of getting sick when all eyes might possibly be on her.  We didn't give her a choice and so she was there.    I think she was glad she went after it was over.  The guy saying everyone's name said her's a little different (I think it was something like Kimi-leighel) and it made her smile and laugh a little, so when she walked up to get her certificate she had the cutest smile of any of the kids.  Kimleighel is a beauty inside and out.  I wish she had more confidence and I believe some day she will.  I am proud of Kimleighel for attending Seminary for four years.  She has loved it and has had many wonderful, spiritual experiences there.

I'm glad that a few moms wanted a picture of everyone from our ward because I was helping with the treats and had forgot to even bring a camera. We have a great bunch of kids but I'm partial to mine....

Random Meme

RaNdOm Meme

go here to play

1. If you were to attend a costume party tonight, what or whom would you go as?  I love dressing up like Glinda the Good Witch.  Most people know her name and being Glinda makes me happy.

2. What are your choice of toppings on a hamburger? Ketchup and Mustard would be enough but I also like lettuce, tomatoes and pickles.  No onions!  

3. You are chosen to have lunch with the President. The condition is you only get to ask one question. What do you ask? Do YOU Mr. President feel good about the decisions you have made?

4. It’s your first day of vacation, what are you doing? NOTHING!  WooHoo....sometimes nothing is good!

5. What is your concession stand must-have at the movies? Popcorn.....it just goes with being at the movies right?  I also like junior mints...frozen is better.

6. Which do you dislike most: pop-up ads or spam email? probably pop-up ads.  You can't help but see them.  The spam emails are easier to avoid and delete.

7. What do you think Captain Hook’s name was before he had a hook for a hand? Probably Captain Cook but really why does that matter?

8. Rock, paper, or scissors? I go for Rock!

9. Let's say a brick fell on your foot, and your kid is standing right next to you, what is your 'cleaned up’ swear word? Son of a Nutcracker or Shisk-kabob!  I started saying Shisk-kabob in high school when I was cleaning up my little potty mouth and it worked great.  Son of a Nutcracker comes from "Elf" and Kimleighel uses it all the time so that might pop out as well.

10. Which is worse, being in a place that is too loud, or too quiet? A place that is too loud.  I am loud enough but will adjust to my surroundings. I like quiet unless it's in a bowling alley then I think it's weird.  I walked away and got thinking Loud Places are usually because there's a lot going on which usually means fun so that would be different.

11. What is one quality that you really appreciate in a person? Honesty!  I love the thought of Liars pants being on Fire.  I have issues with trusting others because so many people are dishonest.

12. At the good old general store, what particular kind of candy would you expect to be in the big jar at the counter? Suckers and Jaw Breakers.  There should also be a Big Jar of Pickles for a Nickel.

13. What is the most distinguishing landmark in your city? There's the four way stop by the elementary school that might be.  Or possibly the Cemetery or Hooper Park.  That's all I can think of in good 'ol Hooper. 

14. Everyone hears discussions that they consider boring. What topic can put you to sleep quicker than any other? Sport statics....I really could care less about what happened or is happening is most sports.  I think sports in general get too much attention.  I don't mind sports but when I see people get so caught up in them and even let it affect their emotions I think it's too much.  If it's enjoyable that's good but when other emotions start coming out ....

15. How many times did it take you to pass your drivers test? One time!  I do believe it was easier back when I took the test.  We even talked to a guy that worked at DMV and he said the tests needed to be made over and just ask the questions without being so tricky.  Do you know it or not?

16. If you had to have the same topping on your vanilla ice cream for the rest of your life, what topping would you choose? Caramel.  I would have said Hot Fudge years ago but as my body changes it seems to make my tummy hurt if I get too much of it....and I always like too much.

17. What food item would need to be removed from the market altogether in order for you to live a healthier, longer life? Sugar....sad but true....I love sugar and eat too much of it.

18. You are offered an envelope that you know contains $50. You are then told that you may either keep it or exchange it for another envelope that may contain $500 or may be empty. Do you keep the first envelope, or do you take your chances with the second? Back at an earlier time of my life I would keep the envelope with the $50 and not chance it.  But now, I would chance it and hope for the $500 but wouldn't worry too much if I got the one with nothing.  I guess the risk would be worth it to me.

19. If you had to choose, which would you give up: cable TV, or DSL/cable internet? TV for sure.  I don't even watch it but I rely on the internet daily.

20. What is your highest level of education? I'm not finished....Mothers never are right?  I graduated from High School and didn't from College but have learned so much by staying at home and running it.

21. How much is a gallon of gas in your city? What was the highest it’s been? It's over $3 again but has been close to $4.

22. What kind of lunch box did you have as a kid? I didn't have one but would have liked a metal one with a cute picture on it.  I ate school lunch and actually liked it.

23. What would you rather have, a nanny, a housekeeper, a cook, or a chauffeur? Right now a Housekeeper would be wonderful.....but then again so would a cook.  I think Housekeeper though.

24. Would you rather be trapped in an elevator, or stuck in traffic? Traffic for sure.  I get claustrophobic and would go crazy.  At least being trapped in traffic you have space around you and air. 

So Much Good....

Barbie came across a Conference with Meg Johnson, Hank Smith, and John Bytheway all speaking together.  She mentioned it to me and I told her I would love to go with her.  Every single one of those speakers are wonderful and together they were fun and fantastic.  Each spoke of different trials and how them or others were able to get through them.  One thing that I liked hearing was that we should be honest and write down our trials and how we work through them.  Our kids might not have any idea that we have the trials we do and they could learn from them as well.  The way we get through our trials is very likely to help someone else get through theirs.  (I have always thought that)
A few highlights from each speaker....
John~HeeHaw...that's good, no that's bad scenario.  There is good in everything if we look for it. *John's kitchen burned but the good thing was they got a new remodeled kitchen and carpet around the house and new paint.  He also shared a quote by Joseph Smith Jr about little's passing..."The Lord take many away even in infancy, that they may escape the envy of man, and the sorrow and evils of this present world; they were too pure, too lovely, to live on earth; therefore, if rightly considered, instead of mourning we have reason to rejoice as the are delivered from evil and we shall soon have them again."
*Meg~A person starts to live when he lives outside himself....service!  When Megs brother was begging the Lord to allow him to suffer instead of Meg after her accident he heard: "what gives you the right to take away her challenges?"  Sometimes we try to interrupt what the Lord is teaching a loved one.  SMILE ☺  A "Smiler" appears to be more beautiful and competent.  You need to smile first and then you will feel happy....the feeling comes after the smile.  When you smile...everyone cares!  It rains on all of us...create new realities through service.
*Hank~"Laughter is no enemy to learning...Walt Disney"  It's our choice not abilities. Thomas Edison was losing his hearing but he noticed that by losing his hearing he was able to concentrate better.  Thomas's building was burning up and he told his son to go get his mother because she would never see a fire like this again.  He also said that the fire burned up all their mistakes and they would be able to start anew.  It's okay not to be happy all the time.  Being Faithful and Being Happy are different.  Don't allow your heart to be hardened by Hard Times!

I feel like I never get enough of hearing inspiring talks by good people.  I love being enlightened more and more and I really do think I am able to apply the things I learn.  I don't allow myself to get too overwhelmed like I use to.  I just try to apply a thing or two at a time but love hearing it all.  I love that Barbie and her girls shared their day with me and even gave up a better lunch so that I could ride with them.  We stopped at Einsteins Bagels so it would be fast since I needed to get home.  I love these ladies and each of their goodness and strength.

I got home in time to go to Ivy and Zaden's dance recital with Larry and Kimleighel. (we only had 3 tickets) I'm so glad that Trichelle and TJ saved us seats.  I knew the place would be packed and it was.  Ivy and Zaden both danced so well. I was so impressed with them and they both looked like they enjoyed themselves and had fun.  They made this gramma's heart and face smile.  Raising kids requires so much sacrifice and when you see them happy and having fun it's all worth it.  I admire each of my children that are now parents.  They are doing such a good job and have such great kids.

I loved looking down the row and seeing the wonderful families of my grands.  It made me smile to have everyone right there together.  These three daddies will forever be in our lives because of their beautiful children and I am happy about that.  I love and admire each of them so much.  They are all good men with wonderful hearts.  (I adore Martha and her boys too...just more family to love)

A Wonderful Rainy Day

What a cute couple Kay and Warren are!  I'm so impressed that they have been married for 40 years.  These days that is a big deal!  Kay and Warren attend the Special Needs program and I have fell in love with them.  Kay has a heart of gold but tries not to let others know that.  I think that her gruff appearance is a cover or protection for how she has been treated in life.  She has had some hard times but has got through them and seems so happy with Warren and her cute doggie, Cocoa.  I am not going to be able to make their Celebration and since Kay wasn't feeling good enough to go to SNAP last night I decide to go their house and visit them and to take them a little gift.  I think it made them both happy....it made me happy.  I gave them a picture of Christ and a few cute mugs with straws and treats in them.  I just wanted them to know that I was happy for them and that I love them.

I invited Carla to run with me just so we could enjoy each others company.  I know she doesn't mind meeting my friends and enjoys an out.  Carla is so sweet and is always giving others gifts.  She brought me a cute frame today and I am going to print our picture and put in it.  I love it..."God reaches out to us through the loving heart of a friend."  So true!  I was glad that I had a little gift for Carla as well.  For visiting teaching this month I gave my sisters cute note books to take notes after reading the conference talks...or for whatever.  I made Carla a notebook to record her blessings.  I was glad I had something for her since she did for me.

We talked about how God does use friends and family to meet our needs.  I have also learned that sometimes he uses strangers.  This morning I poked my nose in my brothers business but feel like I was inspired to do so.  He had misunderstood something and was tired and overreacted to someone that means a lot to him.  As I prayed for him and his friend the "thought" came to me that maybe this little "bump" in the road was so that they would know just how much they mean to each other.  I truly believe that everything happens for a reason and that there are lessons to be learned from every experience.  I found it interested after talking to my brother that I had posted this on face book before I even knew he was having a problem.

There really is a bright side to everything!  Satan however would love for us to think otherwise.  He is mean and nasty and wants us to be miserable. He whispers lies in our ears until we hear him and start to believe him.  If we are unhappy it's because we are listening to him.  Satan doesn't want us to be happy and so he will try anything to stop us from being so.  My brother has made such great changes in his life and Satan knows the good things that are happening and that will continue to happen and tried stopping them.  I told my brother that when I realize Satan is behind the "bumps" I know I'd better continue on the path I was on.  I posted this on face book after Bennett and my chat:

"have you ever noticed when you have a lot of good things going on in your life a "speed bump" usually appears?  It's because you are going in the right direction and "someone" isn't happy about it.  Don't let those speed bumps stop you from being happy.  Work your way through or over them....find that happy again."  That's how I feel....Look for the Bright Side and focus on all the Good Things Happening! (don't give satan another second of your happiness)