Hello Dolly!

Insomia vs. Insanity

2012-01-12T00:05:00.001-07:00

I need to say hello and maybe let you know I'm alive, right? Hello. I'm alive and kicking in the year 2012. My kids are happy, healthy and growing like weeds. So, can't complain.

It's almost midnight, and my brain says to me-"Nope! You're not sleeping tonight. You, Doll-Face have WAY too much work tomorrow to let your dreams come floating in. Let's think about the hour of driving kids to school in the morning. Not just one school...three. You can't just wear your nightgown and sweats in the car either. What if a cop pulls ya over? Get up, get dressed and brush your hair".

My brain also reminds me that I have to have my apartment inspected tomorrow. Yeah-the front office put a bossy little note on my door yesterday: Wells Fargo will be dropping by to do their once a year inspection. Your apartment was the lucky winner! Great-I gotta vacuum in the morning too. Maybe the trash needs to go out sometime before they get here.

I need to drop my car off at the Chevy dealership by eleven a.m. The headlights have not been coming on lately. Pitch black outside, and no headlights. I was forced to use my blinker coming home from Smiths grocery store. Embarrassing.

Flowers need to be delivered. Hope they're still alive down there in the basement. It's cold enough to keep a bear hibernating, and an eighteen yr old hidden away playing WAR GAMES. I think the carnations will make it down there a few more hours. Tie a bow on your finger and remember your sweet friends flowers need to be delivered to the funeral by noon.

What more is there to ponder? Relief Society meetings, activities committee ideas, scouting, parent teacher conferences, and Martin Luther Kings Day. The list gets longer and longer. Man, I'm tired. Can't. keep. my. eyes. open....s;sljds@$$%^0(*&&...
now I'm ready to sleep. Zzzzzzz. Night.

Trust in Christ

2011-12-03T20:11:00.001-07:00

Tomorrow, I'm teaching the Relief Society lesson in church. The theme is Trusting in Christ, and I've decided to write down my thoughts here before I stand up in class.I'll be sharing a video:

This new manual has wonderful examples, of how Christ called upon the women he knew in his life- to help teach and bless the lives of families. Elder James E. Talmadge has told us that, "The world's greatest champion of women and womanhood is Jesus the Christ".

We can read about how Martha and her sister, Mary were called to discipleship in the New Testament chapters. Luke Chapter Ten, tells us about how Martha opened her home to Christ and took care of him. Mary sat at his feet and learned all that she could about the gospel. These women were given the callings to participate in Christ's mortal ministry.

Many other women and their families also came forward to help the Lord with food, shelter and service. They were asked by the Savior to teach their young daughters about becoming good wives and mothers.We are told in the scriptures that a seamstress named Tabitha, made clothing for the her village. When she suddenly died, Peter was brought in to witness her bodies death. He knelt and prayed for her spirit to return to her body. In Acts we read that Tabitha was restored to her body, sat up and looked into Peter's face.

What a wonderful miracle to behold during Christ's ministry.What an amazing blessing in our day and age to have prophets lead and guide us with the restoration of the gospel. We have been blessed to have an organization called Relief Society-where we can help and serve one another. We have the amazing examples of the women we read about in the scriptures, to help us understand that we carry on in His work.

Happy Thanksgiving!

2011-11-22T15:56:00.001-07:00

UPDATE: I've been a faithful green-smoothie drinker now for a couple months...and I've lost 15 pounds! My clothes are loose, I sleep better, no more caffeine drinks, my blood pressure dropped, and I'm jumping for joy:D I have tried for YEARS to stop drinking diet drinks-always with no luck. When I went cold turkey with this new lifestyle, I had no more headaches to slow me down. My mood has been pretty even and I handle stress so much better.

My hubby's pretty impressed that I'm sticking with the whole nutritional and healthy food. He helps me pick out spinach and kale for our meals, and even drinks the smoothies with me in the morning. I'm completely sold on the fruits and veggies approach, and have to hold myself back from sounding too preachy to others now- when I hear their ailments. This IS the way to do it though folks-really!

I'm so grateful for my family! They support me and help me stay on track. We laugh at some of the crazy things I drag us into...health food stores, farmers markets, and even Walgreens looking for vitamins. My kids have thrown out all their Halloween candy (saving the chocolate for later) and watched my shopping habits during the weeks. We keep carrots and celery handy and nuts for my midnight snacks. We are about to travel down South for the holidays, and my kids are thinking of what great deals we can get for Black Friday *I've asked for a juicer for Christmas. I really can't see myself reverting back to processed food and pop again. This is so important to me now. Thanks for asking for an update on my life everyone. I'm doing great!

Happy Thanksgiving Everyone!

Lifestyle Change

2011-10-01T09:06:00.002-06:00

There's a big change happening to me right now, and the greensmoothiegirl.com is the reason for my new lifestyle. Robyn Openshaw was here in Sandy a few weeks ago, (she lives in Provo-but travels) and I went to her free workshop. My daughter and I sat in a room with 300 people and listened to her story of becoming more healthy. She looks amaaazing! Just glowing.

The whole foods life approach makes me think of my Grandpa Gene in Alaska. He use to make us drink smoothies from a blender when I was little (like seven and eight yrs old). His smoothies had celery, apples and lettuce-not bad tasting. Good memories of that part of my childhood. I think that's why I'm so open to the idea now.

I no longer eat a bowl of cereal for breakfast or toast or other traditional foods. I wake up (on my own without an alarm clock)...and start throwing vegetables and fruit in my blender. I LOVE to eat spinach and kale with frozen fruit. Also bananas help bind the whole green/brown concoction together. If it's too bitter, than I use a little bit if agave sweetener.

WHY would I take such drastic measure in my food intake? Well, things have changed for my body since 1993. Right after I delivered my third son...I had a gall stone attack. Two months later I had my gall bladder removed. Up until that time, I had a normal weight with NO meat and very little dairy. My ideal weight stayed at 110 lbs... in fact when I had surgery I weighed 98 pounds. I'm only five foot tall so this is the usual.

After surgery, I discovered that I could eat meat and some milk without sickness and pain. The corn-dogs and hamburgers became my happiness. By the time I had my fourth child-I was up to 120. When my hubby built a house next door to my parents (against my wishes) I wanted a new home, but I became rather depressed. I was grateful to have the help of family moving me into a new neighborhood, but all the changes freaked me out. I ate food to console myself and my weight gradually climbed up to 130.

My third son is now eighteen years old and my daughter is fourteen. My weight is SO out of control that it's climbed to 150-my end result pregnancy weight!!!! Aaaaaa:/

So this is why I'm taking drastic measures. I can feel a change coming. My nails are growing again and I'm happier with my days:) I have full faith that my next post will be awesome.

August Happenings...

2011-09-11T22:27:00.001-06:00

My little brain must be on overload...since I have NOTHING posted for last month {August} Hmmm...what made headlines? Oh yeah!1. The kids are back in school (yes!)2. We did a trial run with Netflix and loved catching up on TV shows.3. Yep-satellite was canceled...so we could pay some gas and food.4. My hubby is now adjusted to working the night-shift at the SLC temple.5. My Seventeen yr. old got a job at I-HOP {Thanks to his YM leader}**And THAT about sums it up here at our house. If I think of more...too bad:)JKGood nite!

July News

2011-07-31T23:31:00.004-06:00

I just realized that I only have a few minutes till the calender changes...and we leave behind the month of July. We've done SO much this month, I better update this blog before time slips away.

-My husband's father passed away last month...and I sent my Love back to Maine for the funeral (His older sweet sister paid for his ticket). Another younger sister helped us finance our son's wedding. We are none-too proud to say we have an amazing family relatives!

-My younger brother brought his family from Israel for a summer visit-awesome time:)

-Well, let me think. We had another reception for our newly-weds-July 16th

-Our third son returned home- after spending the summer down in Cedar City.

-My hubby started working again on the SLC LDS temple-electrical work.

-I'm back in the mix of serving with Relief Society Presidency. Kinda had the time off for July. It was so wonderful to spend so much time down in Southern Utah.

-My middle kids went to Youth Conference Camp up here in the Salt Lake area.

-I went to see my dear friend, Jen (who's husband just passed away this month). She lives in Idaho...but was down to see her father in-law in Provo area.

This month has been filled with tons of activities. I'm so grateful for the safety and good health my family has been kept in *Heavenly Father has truly sent his angels to watch over my busy family.
(It's been such a wonderful month:)

Wedding Day-June 23, 2011

2011-06-24T14:25:00.000-06:00

Count Down

2011-06-14T01:39:00.001-06:00

Well, we've made it to June 14th-it's a little after midnight. We have a week and a half now till our son's wedding. I'm almost done with all the flowers. We have our pink dresses (and black ties for the boys), and we've been cooking like crazy. The dinner after the temple- is sweet pulled pork sandwiches. My hubby and I have been slow cooking the pork roasts and freezing the meat. We have made about a hundred rolls and frozen them also. Every day we cook a little more. I just finished addressing a ton of invitations...and will mail more tomorrow:) I don't want to leave anyone out. This coming weekend is our old neighbors son's wedding also. I'm doing the flowers for their special day. We are going to have a ball!!!

Playing for Change

2011-06-02T09:30:00.000-06:00

Best video I've seen today...gives me goosebumps!

Woofums

2011-06-01T00:21:00.000-06:00

Check out my cousin's cool camping treat video:

Cell phone Summer

2011-05-28T14:13:00.000-06:00

My daughter said good bye to her middle-school friends! Summers here...

My eldest son came up to take a Pharm test-(he passed:)

I'm working on silk wedding flowers for next month


My two middle kids are on their own for the summer-heading south

*And my hubby and youngest son- are taking me to my cousins wedding reception now! Bye:)

Busy Times...

2011-05-17T09:52:00.000-06:00

If your looking for me...I'll be in the back of my closet, looking for my flip-flops!

Oquirrh Mountain Temple

2011-05-06T15:06:00.001-06:00

I saw this video on the webpage The LDS Bride...and loved it! The Oquirrh Mountain Temple is just around the corner from us and it's absolutely gorgeous. It would be fun to have a video of my son's wedding next month. I'll see what I can put together. I'm working on flowers for them too.

Oquirrh Mountain Temple - Rachel & Ryan from Spencer Hale | Giant Brothers on Vimeo.

Sunday RS Lesson

2011-04-30T22:20:00.001-06:00

I just finished doing handouts for my lesson tomorrow-and I thought I'd share:) My lesson is called "Honorably Hold a Name and Standing from David A. Bednar. The handout is a Temple box from JennySmith.net

This is a hard candy (Werther's Original) that I attached a paper to saying, "Let us each be worthy to enter in to the Temple of the Lord". Then I put the candy in the box below.

I'm so excited to teach tomorrow! I love to see the temple-♥

Let the Holy Spirit Guide...

2011-04-24T22:29:00.001-06:00

Happy Easter Sunday everyone! Our Sabbath day was wonderful and peaceful...up until an hour ago. We attended sacrament, I took care of secretarial rolls for Young Womens, Primary and Relief Society (our RS secretary is out of town). I conducted relief society and Kirsten (our RS pres. taught). Then after class, my hubby was set-apart as a counselor in Young Mens. We had a full day of being filled with the Spirit and service. Wonderful moments:) Then-we came home took a nap after lunch. Later had dinner together...and sat down to watch The Wizard of Oz with my youngest.At eight p.m. I noticed it was getting late and I put my baby to bed. Then I did some reading and sat down to talk to Nascar-my seventeen year old. We were on the couch in our living room. I said to him, "Do you know the three ways our spirits can be influenced?". He kept saying, "Food and food and more food!". I laughed and said, "Yes-your mind can tell you that you're hungry. You can also be influenced by the Holy Ghost or Satan. We hope that we turn away from the dark-side and only listen to the whisperings of the gentle influence of the Holy Ghost.During that time of talking on the couch...I could hear screaming outside our door. I'm so short it's hard to see out my door's peep-hole. So I told my tall son, "Tell me if you see someone crying or laughing?". He looked and said to me someone is on the phone and the whole family is running in and out of the town-house. My hubby heard the commotion and we opened the door. I looked outside on the porch...and saw blood on the ground everywhere! People were yelling for a first-aid kit. Nascar and I ran to the kitchen and realized that we only have a box of bandaids. I ran to get a towel and some TP for the blood. I was in my night gown and robe, but felt strongly not to worry about my appearance...just help with first aid. My dear sweet, pregnant neighbor lady, had fallen down the front porch and split her nose wide open. "Sally" is Hispanic, middle aged, has a teenage daughter and wonderful husband (who cares for the grounds here). We saw them yesterday at the Easter egg hunt here at our front office. I was listening to this couple crying out in Spanish. The husband was on the phone with 911. The daughter was shocked with all the blood everywhere. I kneeled down next to my neighbor's head and whispered to her. I said, "Don't worry, everything will be okay. The ambulance is on it's way...and here's some tissue for your nose." She had a laceration across her nose from hitting the cement hard. She knew her nose was broken and she was worried about the baby. I just kept telling her that she needed to slow down and let us help her. My husband put blankets over her and her daughter put shoes on her feet. We took over talking to 911 and told them that we had started first aid. There was blood everywhere but by having her lay down, the blood had stopped gushing out of her face. I smiled and told her that I could hear the sirens coming-they were getting closer. I reminded Sally that her baby was in need too. She needed to relax and let her baby get oxygen and blood...and that would only happen if she was calm. Then, the EMT's stepped in and helped her to the ambulance. My older kids and husband then helped the neighbors carry buckets of water out side to wash the bloody porch down. It was a tense moment for this family-but so important for my kids to witness. I believe that the Holy Ghost was present to guide us, calm us all down, and give us comfort. My husband is an excellent example of how being trained in first-aid, gives us all confidence in helping those around us. The little spirit coming to this earth (inside Sally's injured body) needed help just as much as she did. My first instincts of thinking someone was playing around outside-I'm so glad that I didn't listen to. The Spirit encourage me to investigate and OPEN the door. I'm so grateful for this gift and the chance to serve. My heart is so glad that my children were present to witness this miracle of helping our neighbors, and LISTENING to the Spirit.

Random Thoughts

2011-04-16T00:15:00.000-06:00

A ring on her finger! Gorgeous one too:)

The Relief Society Presidency I serve in...

My first grade teacher-that I just learned her first name: Evelyn

My parents with all nine kids- in "virtual reunion" (I'm the eldest)

Engagement Announcement

2011-04-05T10:25:00.001-06:00

Starwars, "Benson" and our Eldest son

All of my children with "Benson" at my mom and dad's house

We are so happy to announce that our Eldest Son is engaged to be married in July this year!!! We've met his fiancée and fallen in-love with her and her family also. She is attending the same college our son is, and they were introduced by her roommate (who's engaged to an old friend of ours). She's studying Criminal Justice...which I've always had a passion for also. So, knowing that info, I think we'll call her "Benson" from

"Det. Olivia Benson" on Law and Order-SVU. My son is studying Chemistry and wants to be a Pharmacist. They both have lots of schooling and work ahead of them, so we are happy they've finally found each other:) We have a very busy summer of ahead of us...and this should be fun!

New Flower Business

2011-03-16T12:39:00.001-06:00

I've started my own flower business this year:
"Hello Dolly"

I did this bouquet yesterday for a neighbors new baby boy

This arrangement I made for my Alaskan relative

This one I made for Relief Society-(so it's not on a dresser anymore:)

Maybe I can help this cute couple soon with their summer plans! More news soon...

February News...all about LOVE!

2011-02-26T01:28:00.002-07:00

As I said, in the previous post below...my daily routine has changed so much and I'm grateful for the little things now. I'm going to tell you in a list just what I'm so happy about:

1. I'm so thankful for a my sister's continuing improvement in health. She still needs a dental apt. but that's going to be soon. She told me yesterday that she and her hubby will be coming to visit my family soon. That gives us both a goal and something to look forward to in March.

2. I'm jumping for joy that my eldest son has found a wonderful girlfriend! He's been home a year from his mission and has dated lots of cute girls, and this latest one has already paid us a visit (last weekend). What a blessing it would be to have another daughter in law. The blessings continue to flow.

3. My hubby and I just celebrated our 24th wedding anniversary this month-♥ We were touched that our three youngest kids gave us a scenic portrait of themselves as a gift. *Very awesome surprise! It was so good to have our eldest son come see us from college too. Great weekend.

4. I love how laid-back and "down to earth" my new RS presidency is:) Of course, we wear our standard dresses for church, but it's not to show off or give an air of superiority over anyone. These sisters are more than "saints" in my book-they have all thoughts and hopes of kindness for every person in the ward.

5. I love finding friends from old wards and neighborhoods here on the internet. I count my daily blessings that their name shows up...and we connect once again! We catch up on life and kids...it's such a feel good moment. It's a real miracle in my life-connecting with my past.

6. I thank my Heavenly Father that my mother and I are truly friends once again. We have been neighbors for many many years- in every little city we've ever lived in. Over the past couple of years, we were too close for comfort though, being right next door to each other. *Now, we call and talk several times a week and I feel so much closer to her somehow. It's true that distance makes the heart grow fonder.

7. I feel such gratitude for my husband's job up here in Salt Lake. When so many people are out of work or hurting for better pay...we acknowledge the generosity from Heavenly Father. He has opened the windows of heaven and showered us with this steady job and chance for a better life for our kids. Makes my tears of joy flow...thank you! thank you! thank you:)

8. I love my new neighbors and miss my old neighbors. We have incredibly talented friends who inspire us to reach for the stars and keep working hard each day. My new neighbor, Sandy owns a housecleaning business here in this area. One morning, I noticed her advertising on her car and thought to myself...Dolly why have you not gotten your floral business licence yet? That very day- I drove over and filled out the paperwork at the city offices. The lady asked me what I wanted to call my flower shop? I said, "Hmmm...I'll call it Hello Dolly". She smiled and said "Great choice!".

9. I love my husband for supporting me in all my new adventures. He's helping me discover new talents and new ideas. When I need someone to talk to...his name is first on the list. We really are best-friends and romantic partners for eternity. I love my man so much!

10. Last on my love list today is that...I feel so happy to have finally found the perfect dress to wear each week to the temple. It was an anniversary gift from my love...and he picked the very best one. It has a full "ruffled ballerina" lace skirt...and a fitted white blouse with ruffles on the sleeves and bodice. It feels good and I'm so comfortable wearing it too. I can't wait to show my mom this dress...it's that cute! *White Elegance

More news soon! Love to all my readers-Good night -Dolly

Gifts of the Spirit

2011-02-24T22:27:00.001-07:00

This post is for LeAnn over at Living Waters Blog. She's waiting for me to update with news:) I always go to bed thinking about my day...wondering why I haven't written something here for Hello Dolly. Life gets in the way sometimes. I have so much to say-with little time to write it all out. Thanks for taking the time to read this.

There is so much to tell you about working in the Relief Society Presidency. Everyday (except Monday nights...I have been either at a meeting or hitting the pavements knocking on doors. My RS President likes to do cold calls (which means that we don't set up an appointment). There are sisters who need help with meals, babysitting, missionary discussions, and just plain "someone to talk to". I have been so amazed with the kindness of so many families also.

When we drop-in on sisters to say hello, we are shaking hands, petting dogs, holding babies, and looking through family photos. I started off feeling super excited to meet and learn names, and then I was scared by the family dogs (chewing on my shoes), surprised by women who did not want to talk with us, and humbled by families with desperate daily needs. I knew that my calling would push me out of my comfort zone, and guide me into the world of service for others. I had asked Heavenly Father to trust me enough to help me, learn to live by the Spirit. The days of endless Face-booking and finding fun links for crafts, now starts off looking at our ward list after I get my own children off to school. How can I be of help to others?

My own sister, down in Southern Utah, had a serious infection (Ludwig's Angina) that started in her back molar months ago. When the doctor put her in the hospital, I began to realize that I needed to go down and see her-my very own sister. Her body would not let go of the poison in her system and the infection spread to her neck and shoulder. The airway was beginning to be blocked off by the swelling and her pain was out of this world. My parents were doing all that they could to help, but we all felt stunned that new symptoms appeared each day. She had rashes and thrush and then a yeast infection from all the antibiotics. Most of the medications had to be put in her I.V.-because she simply could not swallow. Five days of wondering why she could not get better. It was all up to Heavenly Father-on just when her moments of healing would begin. There was a feeling of helplessness and complete surrender to the Lord for peace and comfort.

My mom helping care for my sister

More news tomorrow night! I'm going to pause and share the rest of the story later. *Hugs*

Open Any Door

2011-02-02T12:55:00.002-07:00

I'm so happy to say that I've met Brother Dan Whitley! He's the author of the music: Open Any Door...and the director of Dan Whitley Music School.

When I as little, my dad played this record for us over and over for Family Home Evening. I truly believe that

this music (and Saturday's Warrior) helped to shape my understanding of what the gospel really means to me

in my life. So, when I called Dan to get his address and find his music studio...I was really more like a band groupie! (Yes-Eric, your right). My heart was pounding and my hand shook as I held the camera. I was determined to shake his hand and buy a CD for my dad though. His birthday was last week...and I needed to find him this gift.

I was so surprised at how close by the music studio really is to me, now that I live up here in the Salt Lake area. I read all about Brother Whitley on-line and looked at the youtube video's on his wall. The record album

picture was familiar and I wanted to know, just which of the three men on the cover was Dan Whitley? *He told me the middle guy holding the guitar. I had emailed him earlier and told him that if he saw a little Eskimo woman driving a brown mini-van near his street...THAT was me! He shook my hand when I walked in, and he asked me where I was from? I told him Alaska and he said he had friends in Anchorage.

We sat down and he played the piano and sang...and it took all my energy to not cry! It was so amazing to be listening to nostalgic songs from my childhood and singing with the man who wrote them.I let him know that I've been a HUGE fan since the early seventies. My Aunt Linda, who had lived in California (till her early death from cancer) had given our family this record.

The band had been formed there in California, and Dan says the song ideas came from teaching Sunday School. These were the words and thoughts that they shared in lesson plans taught in class. That makes so much sense! These songs explain the gospel in a real contemporary musical way...catchy little tunes that stay in your brain. I want my kids to appreciate the songs and answer the questions in there own lives. "Who am I? Where did I come from? Who am I? Where am I going?". I'm linking these songs to another web-page...so you can hear the tune for yourself-just click and play.It would be so wonderful if this next generation could see the beauty to this music also.

Until then, I'll play my autographed CD in my car as I drive along the streets, and hope that my six year old learns the tunes like I did, when I was little too. Thank you Aunt Linda and to my dad also for noticing a very valuable piece of music. I feel "Joy, joy...real joy!".

January News

2011-01-21T11:21:00.000-07:00

I was on the phone the other night with my mom, and she mentioned that I need to write things out more to reduce the stress on my life. I dislike the word stress and would like to soften the thought with just "challenges". Everyone has them...and everyone handles them differently. My mind thinks that if I'm not verbal about my world to others, I just may have to internalize the heartaches. If it's not kidney stones...it'll be something else...like intestinal trouble.

A few days ago, I had a sharp pain on my left side of my lower stomach. It got the point that I could not stand the pain any longer, and went to the doctor. I told him that I probably had kidney stones again or maybe just a bladder infection. My hubby was with me-so I think he realized that it was a little more serious than just indigestion. He told me that it was probably something to do with my colon-{like diverticulitis}. I'm not eating enough whole foods and the intestine is inflamed. So, now I have lots of antibiotics to help heal the spot. I'm turning into an old person who needs to eat prunes-Aaaaaa!

To counter balance the down-side...I'll mention a good part of my week. I found some maternal relatives from Alaska on Facebook. We've had fun talking on the phone and getting to know each other better. I was given a phone number by my biological Aunt-she said it was a sister of mine. So, I got brave...went into a closet and called the number. It turned out to be an older of sister-who's name use to be Jennifer. She's not very far away from me...so we have plans to see each other soon. Her life has been very challenging -and also very similar to our biological mother's. I have to ask her why she would choose such a difficult path? She's not sure, but she knows that it's hard to survive without being raised by her own mother. I can relate to that thought-but know I might possibly have been down the same path of destruction if I HAD stayed in my biological family. I may have never known about abstaining from alcohol and drugs and staying chaste and clean for marriage. Having the gospel of Jesus Christ in my life has made all the difference. This was the gift I was given from my new family.

My own children know that I am still learning about control issues. I can be very strict about daily schedules and following rules. This is similar to how I was raised-not to question authority and certainly not to back talk your mother. When faced with these issues now, I know that I have either "given in" or lashed out in anger. Usually "time" is a factor in my choices and I end up apologizing for a quick temper. My daughter watches my every move-and I know she'll resort to using my bad parenting on her own family-if I don't hold my tongue and be slow to anger. For this new year, I've given my kids the promise that I can control my words and actions. It's all part of learning and growing. I can make excuses and try and say that "I'm in-charge!"-but it's best for my kids to WANT to do what's right-without me telling them. It's best for them to use their free agency in positive ways. It's also easier on ME...and my intestines.

New Year-New Post

2011-01-03T13:45:00.000-07:00

I've had an awesome holiday season with my kids and husband. Part of me will miss the sleeping-in till ten days, but the other part of me is SO happy to send the family off to work and school again! *Let the housework and blogging begin*

Through out the weeks of celebrating and shopping, my computer (lap-top) crashed and then died. There was a brief moment when a sign flashed up-saying that a virus was attacking it. We had Norton's anti-virus program downloaded, but this virus was a doozy. I finally just shut my lap-top down...and went to the library. My seventeen year old, has graciously allowed me to use his today... Thank you Nascar!

This morning, I dropped my cell phone in the kitchen sink-while doing dishes:( Talk talk talking-wet hands- propped on shoulder...plop! Now it's drying in a bowl of rice. So, I'm without direct communication with the outside world. Not too bad, but scary, if the school is trying to call me.

My old washing machine sounds like a jack-hammer when it spins out now. LOUD and annoying! I'm hiding if the neighbors start banging on my front door:) Maybe I'll need to start using the laundry mat down at the front office. That is a big plus about living in a town-house.

Lot's of challenges for the month, but a really great excuse to put my feet up and watch T.V :) *I just know somethings going to happen to my little television next!!!

Good Fortune Cookies!

2010-12-07T22:20:00.000-07:00

My hubby and I took our kids out for dinner at an Asian Buffet last night. We were all so happy to fill our tummies with noodles, shrimp and orange chicken:) After we all ate...the waitress brought the usual fortune cookies out with the bill. My kids were all smiles and we took turns reading them outloud. Here's the actual words and reason we had to laugh:

Hubby's: "You will step on the soil of many countries". Cool-we just were talking about coming home from picking up our missionary in Switzerland almost one year ago (January).

Mine: "You will soon receive help from an unexpected source". *Tonight this was actually true. I was out visiting teaching and my R.S. Prez kept us from being chased by a dog in the neighborhood:)

Nascar: "The strengths in your character will bring you serenity". We laughed because he has been an emotional wreck all week (Ornery), but the moment we fed him Chinese food:...he was calm and kind.

Chabs: "The respect of influential people will soon be yours". We smiled because she just got called into the Beehive-Young Women's class presidency.

Who knew these words could mean so much?

Starwars: This little six yr. old has just learned how to "sound-out" words, but still struggles to read the whole word quickly. His said, "Treat yourself to a good book for a needed rest and escape". That was funny!

*Nascar uploaded some funny pictures to end this...his eye-ball:


He has gorgeous green hazel eyes (tired ones too)


And my "old tired eyes"...and yes I need my brows done soon:)

Good Night!

Headband Giveaway!

2010-12-07T20:50:00.000-07:00

This beautiful headband is up for giveaway at Pedaling Fast...click here for more info:)

Silent Monks Singing Halleluia

2010-12-07T19:03:00.000-07:00

Twenty Secrets

2010-12-04T03:24:00.001-07:00

I'm sharing twenty things in my life that you may not know about me:

1. I am a survivor of Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (my Eskimo mother died of alcoholism when I was two yrs. old).

2. I love Sardines in the can with mustard! The best part of this tiny fish is the spine. I love to pull it out and chew it up-yum.

3. A song is always playing my head. My dad raised us to sing to an audience-and I have millions of songs that I hum everyday:) Drives my kids crazy.

4. I think of numbers as people and colors as places. As a child...I thought everyone did.

5. I'm missing two and a half vertebrae in my neck...my head turns on the muscles in my shoulders.

6. I went to beauty school when I was a junior in highschool in Alaska.

7. I received a scholarship to study Respiratory Therapy when I was 18 yrs. old in Tulsa, OK

8. I thought "my days were over" when I delivered my first son...he was over 9 lbs./22 inches long. I'm barely five feet tall. *He is now six feet seven inches.

9. I owned a preschool for seven years and we played in a little red school house:)

10. I want to live by the beach when my husband retires.

11. My Eskimo middle name use to be "Gay".

12. I have six younger brothers and two younger sisters.

13. I have the best daughter in-law in the whole world-and she's fun to talk with.

14. The first person I want to see when I die is my dad's mother...then my biological mother.

15. What do I hope to do in the next life? Turn my head-side to side. I want to run long distances also.

16. If I had all the money in the world...I'd make presents for people every day!

17. I'm freakishly addicted to Facebook:)

18. I've never had formal training in floral design...but I can create and copy ANY arrangement I see. *don't know how it happened-but my hands know what to do.

19. I'm afraid of ice on the roads when I drive long distances.

20. My sister, Sher' and I can say the next words to each other's sentences...and we wear the same color of clothing all the time. When we meet up at the store, relatives houses, or at church-we smile, point and start laughing!

*Go ahead...tell me something in your life that's a secret!

Christmas Newsletter 2010

2010-12-02T10:33:00.002-07:00

I've avoided adding news about family, for quite a long time now. Guess this month would be appropriate to update you all on my kids and our routines. So much continues to happen here for us in Salt Lake. The long days and weeks have turned into another year.

My eldest son, 22,
is working for a food franchise down in Southern Utah-our old stomping grounds. He continues to take classes and study chemistry to become a pharmacist, and recently was given a native scholarship from Anchorage (enough to probably quit his full time job and slow down to study hard). Yesterday, he made his seventeen year old brother happy, by driving Nascar's tiny car back up here after a bad snow storm. We had gone down there for Thanksgiving and had to send Dad and son up in the jeep. When taking my return missionary son to the shuttle bus, he was watching the side road and yelled out, "Turn around Mom! That lady's car is stuck in the snow. I need to help her push her car out." I hadn't even noticed this buried car as I traveled down the street, and felt such amazement that my son is so much like his father-who also stops randomly to help stranded motorist:) Makes me cry thinking about their similarities.

Our Thanksgiving holiday was so wonderful, because of my second son, 20, and his fabulous wife. They generously offered to host the holiday meal and let us stay in a spare bedroom of their new house! They have three dogs (that I'm in love with-but allergic to). Each day and night, they routinely put the puppies outside or in the garage...to keep me from sneezing. They let us play games, watch t.v. and go shopping with them late at night (we did the Black Friday deals after midnight). We're impressed with their kindness, talents and fun humor! My heart just busts from happiness when I look back at the pictures we took in their home. We are also, so happy that this son's job as a manager at a favorite pizza place continues to help him grow.

Nascar, 17, earned his Eagle Scout award this year. He loves tennis, girls, driving his own car, and

dreaming of moving back to Southern Utah for his senior year in highschool. His older brothers continue to plot and scheme ways for him to move in with them. We are so impressed with his maturity, fantastic grades and plans to become an auto technician after his two year mission for the Lord, when he turns nineteen. Right now, Auto class is his all time favorite and every day he shares his new knowledge. When my driver's side mirror fell off my van yesterday, Nascar pulled out a little mirror from his first aid kit for me:) I duct-taped it on and he handed me some rubber-bands to hold it also-till I can get it really fixed. His mind is one step ahead in building and creating projects...and helping his mother. We are thrilled that he was recommended for Honors Physics in science at school, and know that he will excel at anything he puts his hard work into in life.

Chabs, 13, is my right-hand lady! She really steps up when I'm in need of a co-pilot at home. If chores or rooms need organizing-she's the person to handle the job. We had so much to move, when we lost our house

this year, and when my tired body was no longer able to go up and down stairs, empty storage-rooms, or load the moving truck...I had my energetic daughter to pick up when I left off. She struggled with starting middle school in a new city, but has come through with flying colors. We are so happy she found a new friend to talk to over the cell-phones, eat lunch with and visit back and forth after school. My prayers have been answered in that department also. It's a blessing also to have her serving as a leader in Young Women's at church. She gives me the heads-up on names and callings for our new ward. She knows that her memory skills are helpful when mine are on over-load.

Little six year old, Starwars, has made huge strides in his jump from kindergarten to a new school for first grade. He started karate this year, and loves finding new friends! He is truly a social-butterfly and nothing stops him from impressing his older siblings. He calls his brothers on their cell phones and gives them weekly updates on his fun times and discoveries. He still prays for our my cousin who lived with us for a few years,

and reminds us to send him news. When his teacher at school asked him how many siblings he has, he proudly told her four older brothers and one sister! He knows he has the best seat-in-the-house, as youngest. His weekly blog keeps reminding me that he is swiftly growing up-and I need to appreciate every moment with this little one.

My husband and I are so grateful to have our R.M. son back from Switzerland, have so many friends that took time to help us load and move our family, relatives who keep us updated on family news, and the list grows longer everyday. We LOVE our new area that we live in, the neighbors who sweep our porch, the drive thru lady who remembers my name, the school offices that check on my kids, and the electrical job my hubby has-that keeps our family healthy and happy. Life is so good! Thanks to my cousin, Amy who continually checks on my blog:) Thanks to my Aunt & Uncle who called and asked if we needed a place for the holidays. Thanks to so many wonderful friends over the social networking sights. You are the reason I feel connected with the world. I have purpose in life, with family and friends. It's so great to be ALIVE!!!!

Merry Christmas everyone!

Love, Dolly and Family

So NOT True...but funny!

2010-11-30T16:01:00.000-07:00

Thanksgiving Evening

2010-11-26T11:56:00.000-07:00

Thanksgiving Day Morning

2010-11-25T11:55:00.000-07:00

We drove down to Southern Utah last night and traffic was crazy!

Dad was in the jeep-Nascar was in his little car and I was in my van...

Starwars could not keep his eyes open...

Casanova and his wife have an awesome house!

The kids all played games after breakfast

It is so awesome to see my kids ALL together!

This is Casanova's gorgeous kitchen

The kitchen table is perfect size

Super lucky to have an island:)

The guest bathroom is beautiful with a painting done by my daughter in-law

I love the hardware on the doors and closets

The kitchen is so big for a starter home

It is a dream come true for this mom to sit back and see her whole family!

The back yard is fenced in:)

They have three dogs (usually inside-but I'm allergic)

More pictures of the feast later on...bye!

In the Spirit of Thanksgiving

2010-11-23T22:25:00.000-07:00

What happens when we die?

2010-11-23T12:59:00.000-07:00

As Sisters in Zion

2010-11-14T23:12:00.001-07:00

My heart is very full tonight:) I was called and sustained today as a counselor in our ward Relief Society-with my husband and children by my side. Since we moved up here over the summer, I have not a had a chance to meet the sisters and learn names yet. I've been serving in Primary (my six yr. olds class)-and have been his teacher almost every year since he was in nursery. This is such a blessing to finally be able to hear the messages each Sunday with a group of women, that live all around us in my neighborhood. Most of us are in town-homes and apartments, so I can walk to everyone's place to visit them also. What a huge gift in our area!I've learned through out my life, it doesn't matter where you are-the message is still the same in every language: The Church is true! Just as this Youtube video shows us from around the world...As Sisters in Zion- we'll all work together.

Life...

2010-11-10T09:41:00.000-07:00

One evening an old Cherokee told his grandson about a battle that goes on inside people.He said, "My son, the battle is between two wolves inside us all.

"One is Evil - It is anger, envy, jealousy, sorrow, regret, greed, arrogance, self-pity, guilt, resentment, inferiority, lies, false pride, superiority, and ego.

"The other is Good - It is joy, peace, love, hope, serenity, humility, kindness, benevolence, empathy, generosity, truth, compassion and faith."The grandson thought about it for a minute and then asked his grandfather: "Which wolf wins?"

The old Cherokee simply replied, "The one you feed."

Holiday Decorating

2010-11-09T12:17:00.000-07:00

I'm feeling inspired to decorate for the holidays soon...awesome!

All that JAZZ

2010-10-29T20:55:00.000-06:00

We had so much fun last night at the JAZZ game!!!

{free tickets}Wahoo!!

This place reminds me of back home's-"Centrum" (homesick)


The retired jerseys of so many great players (Malone...hint!hint!)

Andrei Kirilenko-aka. "Justin Bieber"

*Can't sing-but sure can play basketball...yeah!

"Purple Team"

Most limber and brave bear EVER! GO Jazz bear:)

Party+Party=Party!!!

Lights-Camera-ACTION!!!!

I'm not hip to team sports-but these athletic team members kept my attention:)

We lost and were up WAY too late...but it was a fun party!!!

Shadow Box

2010-10-25T21:00:00.001-06:00

I bought a shadow box at IKEA over a year ago. It was my first trip to this awesome store...and I didn't have much to spend. The black framed box was pretty inexpensive-like five or six dollars. I knew that something special would fit in this little treasure holder. Today was the day- that I knew what could go inside this frame.

I have a few seashells that make me smile when I look at them. Most of them come from my siblings who travel all over the world. They know that I love all-things-nautical...glass balls, ships in bottles and shiny sea shells.One certain sea shell I have-I love BOTH sides of. One side has brown stripes and the other side has "stair-case ribs". I was having a hard time deciding which side to show off. Then I got a really good idea...

I decided to color copy the rib side of the shell-with my leopard scarf laying on top of the shell!

Then I cut down the copy to fit inside the border. It was like making my own scrapbook paper. I found the hot-glue gun and glued the shell {with the stripes on the top}-down on the color copy. I love the finished look, and I hope this inspires someone else to be brave and fill a shadow-box also. This project was fun!

Family Night Dessert

2010-10-18T17:34:00.002-06:00

My Top Favorite Past-Times

2010-10-16T22:25:00.004-06:00

I loves pears-so my kitchen has LOTS of them

I'm a collector. I have certain things that make me happy and calm inside...like my initials-I collect letter D's. As I sit here in my dining room, I can see a few of my favorite things...I'm "GOOGLE-ing" the pictures so that I don't have to find my camera:)

My Grandma collected Ethan Allen furniture-and I inherited most of it:)

My sisters buy me teapots-so I love my tea pot collection

My Grandma collected nesting dolls-so I now collect these dolls also

I love flowers-so when I see silks...I buy them to arrange later

My mom had a Fenton Silver-Crest bowl in our kitchen-so I now do also in my hutch (lots!)


I owned a preschool for seven years-and still hang on to my favorite books & toys

I know this is excessive...so I need to find other ways of feeling good about life. My kids will have so much to carry off when I die. But I suspect most of it will go off to the second hand store. Maybe my grand kids will enjoy these treasures also one day! Funny what a person can collect in one life time.

Nie Nie Dialoges

2010-10-01T11:50:00.003-06:00

My friend, Val, invited me to hear Stephanie Nielson speak last night at the BYU Woman's Conference

My awesome friend-Val the photographer

(It was so amazing!)...I can hardly find the words to describe this speech. I was also in utter amazement that Val came to pick me up and drive us down to Provo:) She is truly an awesome friend from Southern Utah. We had quite an adventure getting into the ballroom itself. Here's the link to Stephanie's blog-


I could barely see Stephanie...but I was able to capture the moment on camera:

We felt lucky to squeeze in the room!


We were in the "standing section"-but tried to sit on the floor in the aisle:

Next- we crouched down to allow the people behind us a view:

You can see how far back we were!!

The security asked everyone to move into "another room with sound"...

We slowly moved back into the ballroom:) and watched the slide show.

I was really touched by the very personal family pictures she used for her talk. Stephanie told her story of surviving a near fatal plane crash with her husband, two of her children and family friend (the friend did end up dying on the way to the hospital). Stephanie was burned on eighty percent of her body. She explained that when the plane crashed and caught on fire-her memories include a very spiritual moment. She told the crowd-that she knows that God lives and knows each one of us. She said if you've ever wondered if He's out there...she personally testifies of His existence. She knows for sure-after this experience. She then went on to say she learned in the second grade to stop-drop-and-roll. So, when she caught on fire-she did these steps and kept on rolling...clear into the wheat fields:) The neighbors in the area, came to their rescue, and she spoke of being loaded into the ambulance. She reached up to touch her own face-and was shocked that she felt missing skin. The slide show picture, was her in a full body cast. She was in a coma for three months!

The next part of the story...I didn't get to hear. Security came in and moved the crowds {not in the ball-room}...into another room. Val and I walked back into the ball room to be closer after security left:) We were only able to see the last few slide show pictures. I heard Stephanie say that one of the most difficult moments was the day she saw her own children. They were all very nervous seeing each other again. Most of her relatives were told to say their goodbyes. She wasn't expected to live much longer, but she has continually gained strength each day-to the utter amazement of everyone around her. The nurses let her husband (who had broken his back and also been burned) in everyday to hold her hand and help her heal. Some days, her heart-rate would get too high-as he spoke to her with love:) The nurses would have to send him back to bed, so that she could rest. She explained that those were the "hot and heavy" moments! -which made the audience laugh! I felt such amazement that I was standing in the same room with this angel. (What a complete blessing...thank you so much Val) Stephanie bore her testimony and we all realized that this had to be the best way to start our Conference Weekend! I was completely fed with a spiritual insight from this lady.

Flower Photo

2010-09-28T14:17:00.001-06:00

I've added my name to a creative flower photo blog called:

Here is my contribution for the post:

I made this flower arrangement AND I took the picture:)

Decorating on a Dime

2010-09-23T13:56:00.002-06:00

I've been busy decorating our new little town-house with flowers I've saved from shopping the sales, and finding material for making a window valence in the livingroom. I first found a vase for my tropical silk flowers in one of my favorite stores: Tai Pan Trading! I knew exactly the design I wanted, and today was the day:

This is how it turned out...pretty cool:)

These flowers remind me of Hawaii!!!!

I love the swirl design on this material-very elegant!

This is the sliding glass-door on the patio...so I had to buy 3 yards...Here's the instructions

And I used the scrap piece for my Coffee-table...and I'll buy more later for my dining room chairs:)

This was my birthday present from my hubby. -A candle wall sconce from Pier One! I love it-♥

More ideas later! Love,

B-daysBrakesFires &* Bees

2010-09-21T14:03:00.002-06:00

Since the kids have gone back to school, my life has been pretty laid back and easy. We did have my 21st birthday (again)-just like every year. Then we celebrated my son's b-day (he turned 22)...yep-we are only a year apart-and I'm younger now. Time goes backwards once you become a middle age. It's great being a young mom:)

Our little town had a big fire a few days ago. We listened to the sirens and watched the smoke surround us. Sad to read that a few families lost their homes:( Not a pretty picture. We are glad that no one was killed or badly injured though. Only smoke inhalation and people needing breathing treatments (like my daughter).

My van has been having brake problems on and off. First it would "stick" and not release. I'd get stuck out in Sandy-and have to call my house for a ride home. But my hubby would make me wait till he drove out to me, then he would lift the car up on jacks-and beat the heck out of the wheels. Then he took over driving the van to work for a week. He'd down-shift into first and second-and avoid braking "as hard" as I do...(he says sarcastically). My sixteen year old would drive the jeep(which he hates) and I would get my son's little car to putt around in. We endured this car switch for only one week. Now, I'm driving my van again, Nascar is driving his little car-and my husband is happy to get his jeep back. This morning though, I got a call from Nascar. He left his head-lights on...and now the battery is dead. I made it over to his school and tried to hook up the jumper cables with him. We still could not get his battery to charge. So, it looks like were back to two cars again-till dad gets home tonight:)

I'm waiting till the last minute to head out the door to pick up kids. There are big bees that like to dive-bomb me when I step out on my porch. Dozens of birds live up in the trees outside the townhouse-and the patio gets covered in bird droppings. Well, the bees seem to like this-(don't ask me why!). So, I'm avoiding this freakish front porch till the last minute. Maybe I can find the bug spray up in the cupboard? Where is that stuff? Maybe I'll just wear a big hat:) More news soon...♥ Doll'

Fresh Strawberry Pie-♥

2010-09-10T16:13:00.001-06:00

For my birthday dessert tonight-I made my Aunt Linda's Strawberry Pie (yum!) Here's the recipe:

Wash two boxes of strawberries

De-stem and slice each batch

Pour one batch in pan with 1 cup Sugar, 3 or 4 TBS of cornstarch, {Blend together}

Stir all together and boil for one minute-continually stirring

Pour second batch of fresh berries in pie crust {mine is graham cracker}

Pour hot mixture over fresh berries-let chill for at least an hour in fridge

Add whip-cream and slice! Happy Birthday to me:) Starwars says: YUM!!!♥

Two Meals in One

2010-09-09T18:44:00.000-06:00

I made home-made pizza tonight and while I was at it...I also made tomorrow night's dinner. We had turkey bacon on the pizza-

AND on the Twice Baked Potatoes! Merrianne gave me the recipe:)

These little babies are going in the fridge for later. Next recipe-Strawberry Pie!

Fall Schedule 2010

2010-09-09T09:33:00.000-06:00

So now that the kids are all in school...I can use my time wisely with a daily schedule. No more sleeping-in (maybe after I drop them off:), and eating breakfast at lunch time. My new schedule has to be mature and responsible:6:30 a.m. Kiss and say goodbye to hubby and wake up Nascar for highschool6:45 Make breakfast and lunches for three kids7:00 Wave goodbye to Nascar and wake up Chabs for Middle-school 7:15 Take shower, dress and put running shoes on!7:30 Put coats on kids, throw backpacks in car and head off7:45 Wave to daughter at Middle school and climb back on freeway8:00 Stop by house for youngest coat or backpack forgotten on couch8:15 Drop youngest off at Elementary school after fighting traffic8:30 Scream for joy that the kids are OUT the door-Yahoo!!!9:00 a.m. Eat breakfast in a nice quiet house while watching the morning show9:15 Throw a load in washing machine/dishwasher/and-make beds10:00 Clean bathrooms, vacuum and put away clothes10:30 Lay down and fall asleep...too tired to keep eye-lids open11:00 Notice that there's no one around to worry about-go back to sleepNoon p.m. Eat lunch...run errands(post office/grocery store/gas station3:00 Pick up kids and start schedule for evening chores and dinner! *This whole schedule making is making me tired...need a nap! ZzzzzzzzMore news tomorrow-

Sweet Escape

2010-09-01T14:16:00.000-06:00

*This is what I really need today...think I'll push...this button:) *Bye*

Starwars Loves School

2010-08-27T09:19:00.000-06:00

Starwars stepped foot on his new play-ground and found his school line! All of us moms were bawling our eyes out...and quickly taking pictures to blog about and send to grandma:)


His teacher was easy to find at the front of the line...


The crowds pushed me back-but my little son was ready for the day!

Good Bye Starwars-Have a fun first day!!!

First Day of School in SLC

2010-08-26T09:01:00.001-06:00

My kids and I knew that this day would be here all summer long. This year's "FIRST DAY" would be especially challenging because my kids are starting brand new schools in a new city. Since we've been up here in the Salt Lake area for over three months now, we are now use to the roads, stores and our new church ward. We've driven all over exploring Sandy, Draper, Riverton, Herriman, Murray and all the other towns.

I've taken the kids inside their new schools and walked their hallways. But new schools and people are scary. I knew that this day would be hard. I, myself, have gone through changing schools when I was a teenager (my senior year in H.S. we moved to Tulsa from Alaska). I was so excited but painfully nervous also.Nascar who is almost 17- has been awesome. We've gone over to his school several times to register, walk his hallways

and look for parking spaces. We didn't get a parking sticker-so he was worried about his car being in the right place. I did get a nervous phone-call, asking what he should do? No big deal I told him and he was fine with the options.My daughter, Chabs was having a major melt-down this morning. We've talked about her new schedule and having a locker. We've gone over to see the classrooms and practice opening her new lock. She was adamant that she was NOT going today. Luckily, her dad gave her and her brother father's

blessings last night...and we had morning prayers before breakfast today. I even went to my room, after seeing her sobbing this morning. "Heavenly Father-Please help my children make it through this day! Help me be strong and guide these brave Saturday's Warriors. Send angels to pick my daughter up off the couch-and dry her tears, and thank you for giving me another day to get Starwars out the door". I only have an "Open House moment" with my youngest today (we don't have to be ready till after lunch). It's a cruel punishment for him though-he WANTS to start school and meet his teacher:)I wanted to take pictures and show my kids happily skipping out the door. Not today..maybe tomorrow. I'm happy that both of my teenagers are safely in their classrooms-and my six year old is now snuggled next to me watching cartoons while I blog this morning. "Thank you Heavenly Father for helping me be a mom!!!".

Eagle Scout

2010-08-16T12:35:00.000-06:00

My third son, Nascar, received his eagle scout award this past weekend. My eldest son, who is also an eagle scout escorted his younger brother to the eagle nest:) Here they are with Martin Tyner-who trains and owns this eagle-"Scout". The whole evening was a wonderful experience!

Words to Live By

2010-08-12T00:04:00.001-06:00

As a child, I grew up with my mother sitting at a typewriter. She was an English teacher at the community college in Alaska. A few nights a week, my mom would go out and teach classes, while my siblings and I would spend the evening with my dad or a babysitter. I loved spending time with my dad, but the babysitters were tons of fun. I believe this schedule lasted until I was almost ten or eleven. Then, I became the babysitter for my five younger siblings (eventually eight younger).

Why would I want to tell you this? I'm not sure. I have been reading biographies and true stories all month though. As, I'm reading these books, I think to myself: "What would you say about YOUR self?". Who are you, Dolly? Inside, my brain knows exactly who I am. Putting it all down on paper(or a computer screen)-is another story. If I had known as a little girl- that I could write my own story out later, I would of had lots to say outloud...and I would of been surprised that I had the power to say anything I wanted. I know that my "typing teacher" would be stunned that I would later, enjoy typing up words every day. Not a care in the world as I type. i can use poor punctuation and spelling-and nobody cares:) Ha!

I read an article today, stating that blogs are boring and going out of style. I, personally, do not believe this to be true. I love reading about other people's lives and what makes them tick. It's fun to see how similar in life our talents or challenges may be. I like different styles of writing and the more descriptive-the better. Words to me, can be as addictive as food. I like the sounds and the feel as I write them out. I have flamboyant handwriting-with big curls and perfect angles.

Some words make me cringe, while others calm my soul like music. I can remember my mom saying that a person who refuses to capitalize the first letter in their name-has serious personality flaws (She's a perfectionist). I have a hard time now, allowing myself to text words without punctuation or capitalization. Funny, huh?

I just mentioned to my daughter, that I can write out words and whole sentences backwards. I grabbed some paper and wrote out her name with speed and accuracy. She was surprised and decided to practice this new trick herself. I've noticed also that she has her grandmother's love for writing out long lists. My little girl is very organized and skilled with lightening-speed color coding and category making columns. I like to be set-up with style...but nothing too restricting.

A list to me means MORE work. So, I run when I see a list... My world is free from heavy schedules, demanding chores, and endless non-sense. I like simple days with decorating and reading about other people's worlds. My children like this too. It JUST feels so good to be me these days.

Strong Spirits

2010-08-02T13:12:00.000-06:00

Our new home has lots of fabulous friends for us to get to know better. We've just met an awesome family in our new ward (their daughter is in my primary class now). The mom's name is Holly Gooch (She blogs also) and the eldest son, Spencer has cancer. I just read his baptismal story-and it's pretty amazing! Our whole ward is very supportive and the primary organization absolutely rallies around this cute boy.

Another amazing story here, is about one of my friends from Southern Utah. We worked together at the Family Support Center-giving respite to adoptive/foster care families in our area. She was attending school in

Provo, and was attacked while on her way to class a few months ago. My friends from facebook sent me links to her story-and I was absolutely stunned with shock. This friend, had been writing to me earlier in the year -and she had planned to make a career out of modeling.She really is such a beautiful girl!! People all over Utah have been so supportive of her story now-and have set up accounts to help her family with the medical expenses building up. I was so touched with the messages her family wrote each day-updating us on her progress. We were all cheering when they'd say she was healing from the physical trauma her poor body experienced. She's back home now and such a ray of sunshine to all those around her. I feel super lucky to know this young girl-and witness the miracles of her life now.

Family Means Everything...

2010-07-26T15:23:00.001-06:00

My second younger brother came to visit my family! He looks very happy-and we had fun catching up again... *Sure missed him:)

"Being pretty on the inside means you don't hit your brother and you eat all your peas - that's what my grandma taught me" ~Lord Chesterfield

Karate Kid

2010-07-20T03:15:00.000-06:00

I found a martial arts class yesterday...at a cute little dance studio. When I walked in the place, I found it to be so cute-that I signed my six year old up for Ti Quan Do and also...Hip Hop Dance for little boys! Then, I ran home to give him the news:)

StarWars was "jumping for joy" that I've realized he's now old enough now to take classes. When I explained that his first class was that night-he could barely make it through dinner time:) But seven p.m. came-and my hubby and I took him over to meet his teacher and new classmates. We lined him up and told him to listen carefully...and when he kept turning around to see us (instead of watching his teacher), we said goodbye and waited outside the classroom...hoping he'd pay better attention.

We heard a knocking on the window after about 20 minutes...so we ran back inside. Little Starwars was wailing his lungs out with worry that we were gone. But we calmed him down-and his daddy stood next to him to help the teacher out:) We're not too sure yet if this fun class will continue. Depends on if daddy wants to help out and assist his son with the next year of lessons!

Sorry this is so grainy from the cell-phone...but there's a window in time!

*My baby is standing in the middle:)

Summer Fun

2010-07-09T00:11:00.002-06:00

Since moving up here to the Salt Lake area, we have had so many awesome friends and family members drop in to see us at our new place! How incredible to have time with my brothers, their families and friends from my childhood too. Thank you Heavenly Father for bringing us together once more:)

My youngest brother brought his family two weeks ago-Here is a picture of his son and daughter playing with my youngest "Starwars":)

We had a super visit with his wife and kids

Here is my FIRST younger brother with his son

And his wife and three daughters

Then, after my brother left tonight, our old friends from Tulsa-came by to see us too! They live here in Utah now...up here in our neighborhood:)

We sat and talked till ten p.m-and didn't want the night to end!

Our sons sat and ate cake

And I was able to take pictures of their cute new baby with his grandma:) It has been a wonderful summer so far! (I still have a few more friends and family to see still...)

Love,

Happy Fourth of July

2010-07-04T23:08:00.002-06:00

Howdy Everyone!

We've had an amazing weekend with family reunions, parties and a friend's funeral. I received a facebook message from a long-time friend from Oklahoma. She asked me if I had seen the Salt Lake Tribune news with our friend's obituary listed? (I was standing upstairs with my mom and dad at their house). We all knew that this friend had suffered many years with cancer-so, it was such sad news, but we know that he is not in pain any longer. Brother Pat Brian had been our neighbor in Alaska many years ago-when I was in junior high. Brother Brian had also been our stake president then too. After my parents moved us to Tulsa, OK in the eighties, President Brian had been called to be the Mission President of the Tulsa Oklahoma Mission. My family was thrilled to be reunited with his awesome family! We spent more time at the mission home than our own place on the holidays:) We'd go camping together and travel to hear him speak at firesides.

When their mission was over, my brother and I were invited to travel to Florida with their family of six kids (to visit Disney World). We camped out the whole way-and were eaten alive by mosquitoes...which reminded us of our days Alaska. But it was all worth the discomfort, by the time we reached Disney World...we felt like we were in heaven! I loved "Canada" in Epcot Center the most...and spent a whole day wondering the villages alone. It all was a welcome vacation since I was the eldest of eight kids then-and had very little time that I wasn't babysitting for my siblings or neighbor kids for money. To me, the Brian family meant fun times. It was such an honor to have that bonding time with them.

Amazingly, the same brother that went with me to Florida, has been here in town with his family from Israel. He works for GM and is here on vacation with his family. We had a week together down in Cedar, and when we heard of President Brian's funeral...we decided to pick up our daughters early from girl's camp. We needed to attend this funeral in Draper. We had to be there on time at ten a.m. with our sister and our parents.

In one day, I drove an hour up the canyons to get my daughter and niece, brought them to my mom's house to change-and we left again to drive north to Salt Lake. My hubby had been working all week up north, so it was wonderful to see him again also. We left our kids at home and went to the funeral-up by the Draper Temple. I had only hoped to see our friends from across the room, but my parents and sister insisted on seeing the Brian kids in person. I saved seats in the chapel for us to sit on (The room was packed clear to the back-like stake conference). My brother came at the last minute with his wife, and were all completely amazed to see Thomas S. Monson walk into the room and be seated. Our beloved Prophet had taken time to speak at our dear friend's funeral-(Pres. Brian had been an Area Representative of the Seventies). It had to be one of the most incredible funerals I have ever been to in my whole life. The children spoke, the many grandchildren sat with their grieving grandmother. The extended family was so immense-they all could not sit up front with the siblings. They had to move back with us and farther if needed. After the talks and songs and the program ended-we ran out to the back parking lot to hug our dear friends. We laughed and cried together. It's been 27 years since I personally had seen my dear friends. I introduced my husband and met

their children. It was so wonderful, we didn't want the time to end. But, the funeral had to proceed to the cemetery. President Monson dedicated the grave and my parents took picture of the moments. I was so grateful to be part of this event, and later to spend more time with my brother and his family for the Fourth of July weekend. I love the new home we are now in-and I'm so grateful to my Heavenly Father for bringing us up north. Happy Independence Day!!!♥

Dinosaur Day

2010-06-25T22:07:00.009-06:00

We made a visit to Thanksgiving Point today-it was so fun!!

Our New Home

2010-06-08T23:31:00.001-06:00

Here's some shots of our new place:

We have neighbors next door to our town-house (very friendly people)

There are apartments across from us-and a swimming pool:)

Our van has a little carport...

Our little livingroom...squished into a small spot, but that's okay!

We can finally all sit down and have a meal together:) There are stairs behind my hutch...

This is the view from our kitchen

Here's a view of the kitchen (that was made for a teeny tiny family)...It's all a big adjustment for us, but we are happy to be with my hubby again! We love our new ward at church-they are super awesome!!!! More pictures soon...

Surrounded

2010-05-26T21:28:00.000-06:00

This week is SUPER busy for our family. We are moving out this week!!! I am so excited to start our new adventure up north:) I keep opening drawers and closets and finding things to pack though. The list is endless-but my joy is overflowing!

That's what keeps me going I think-the sheer fact that we are starting a new chapter in life. I ran around taking pictures tonight. StarWars has been a big help to me. When all my older kids are busy with goodbye parties and the end of the school year activities-my little six year old is the one person home with me. We unloaded

the cold-storage room together...carrying each item upstairs. We took tons to D.I. and we filled up a whole super long dumpster. It felt fabulous getting rid of years of useless items that I never use anyway.

I'm learning from the T.V. show-"Hoarders", that I hold on to items for the feel-good memories. I also think that my secret wish is to pass-on the treasures, but some people won't find them to be special like I do. I need to ask my kids if they dream of owning my possessions. I've learned so much from working at home

decor stores also. (That sounds funny-after putting pictures up:) Some items are seasonal and some are temporary. I need to hold off on unnecessary things-even when I WANT them so bad! (Think of all the money I'll be saving!) I want to make the move north to be uncomplicated and easy for my husband and sons

to move. The more I let go of-the quicker we will be out of here. My son, Casanova and his wife, have inherited my kitchen dining room set, the basement couches and a big bookcase that my father in-law made years ago. My eldest son gets the other matching bookcase. It felt so good to help them out as they moved into a new place also. I'm so grateful for the home that we've built with our own hands- and the items that have been handed down to me from my parents. (I need to write about how I inherited my formal dining room set from my grandma. But, I'll hold off on that till later:)

*In the midst of this craziness-I managed to make a silk wedding bouquet for my friend, Megan. I just love her style and wedding colors. Congrats to the new bride-♥

Marital Bliss

2010-05-18T13:57:00.000-06:00

My sister in-law sent me an awesome email today-thought I'd share them with you too:)

William and Victoria Carr

2010-05-14T16:51:00.002-06:00

Today, my hubby came home... and we went out of town to do an electrical job for William Carr again. It was so fantastic-I can hardly contain myself! (Aaaaaa!!!) Why do I love going out there to his home? Well, he's an amazing photographer that owns his own gallery in Las Vegas, and his wife, Victoria, calls my hubby whenever they need an electrician. The first time my hubby came home from working at his house...he was carrying this picture with him...

We put that one in the computer room. Today we brought home this HUGE gorgeous framed artwork-

Fantastic, huh??? We were also given this southwest collection also!

I can hardly believe my eyes when I go into my livingroom! What did we do to deserve all this beauty?

My talented hubby had to bend some pipe, and put it up against the wall for a new laminating machine that they just bought and had delivered while we were there this morning. We helped install this frame-cutting machine also...Click Here for that story.

Used for cutting all this molding that is absolutely gorgeous!

He has his own framing, matting and lamination workshop!!

William and Victoria Carr

They posed with my hubby!:) The trucks had pulled in and delivered the laminator and plastic rolls...

And it was time to roll up our sleeves and work!

This is the beginning of the pipe- (put up for the wiring)

And it had to be run into another room reserved for this new laminator

It was pretty tricky getting that pipe around the door frame!

Here's all that wire getting thread through the pipes and sent into the next room

Here's the end result -and we were sooo happy the wire thread all the way through! (Yahooo!) I didn't get a good shot of the laminator...so I took this one off-line:

The lovely lamination machine-used for sealing each one of the awesome prints! Thank you to Bill and Victoria for asking us to come visit (and help set-up their workshop:) That was fun!

Starwars and Nascar Night

2010-05-13T21:55:00.001-06:00

We came back tonight, after watching Starwar's awesome kindergarten performance...

And visiting with Grandma and Grandpa

We had such a fun time talking to his teacher too:

We forgot all about poor Nascar-who was home sick with the flu! But when we walked in our house,

We found his sweet friend making him chicken noodle soup! Lucky kid:)

Nascar's Reply

2010-05-11T00:20:00.001-06:00

I just read the comments on my last post and realized that I have not updated you all on the "prom grad-nite" question! Sorry...I've been distracted:) Nascar did come up with a hilarious response, typical of most teenage boys. I believe most boys LOVE talking about bathroom humor and messy situations. These girls were so smart to catch his eye with their plunger on-hand (brand new I might add).

In timely fashion...Nascar wrapped a snickers candy bar (in the extra toilet paper), and wrote a note saying, "Crap! Why not? Sure I'll go to Prom-nite with you:)". What mother would not be proud to claim this son as her own? Such style and charisma. I found a few pictures of this charming guy on my camera I can share. The date is not for a few more weeks...so this is the best I can do. Nascar and Starwars bonding in the lime-light (of our new town-home) up north over the weekend. These are precious...

Will You Go to Prom With Me?

2010-05-05T17:29:00.000-06:00

My sixteen year old, Nascar, just got asked to the Grad-nite Dance:) Here in Utah, it's a custom for the person asking someone to prom-to be very creative! Then the "invitee"-creates an answer...with the words "YES" or "No, thanks!" Here's what his invitation said...There were lots of hints at his bedroom door:

And in his bedroom...there was a trail of evidence:)

Under the sign there was a plunger with a bag of Almond Joy's flowing out:

Now, Nascar has to think of a cute way to say, "YES!".

LOve-Shakes You Down!♥

2010-04-28T01:06:00.003-06:00

I Survived

2010-04-18T22:33:00.000-06:00

My kids love to hear stories about when I was growing up in Alaska...long ago. When I'd put the boys to bed at night, they'd all say, "Just tell us about when you were little like us". So, I'd think back and remember the good old days on Rabbit Creek Road. My mind remembers the details like they were just yesterday.

I lived off of R.C. Road-on Bay View Drive. My dad built a house on the first right, after the mail-boxes. I was in the first grade at North Star Elem.-and we had been living with my Grandma G. (in her duplex downtown). We had four kids at home-I was the eldest (age 7), then my sister was next, and my two baby brothers. My mom signed me up for a new school-Rabbit Creek Elementary. My teacher was Miss Bell and most of the kids that were in THAT very class...I would one day graduate from highschool with. We lived on that road and I attended that school for years and years. Lots happened during my childhood to make me the person that I am today. Here is one of the stories I love to tell...

One of my earliest memories was going to lunch at my mom's friends house. I think my sister attended her preschool there. We stopped there for lunch time, and we had a fabulous time cutting shapes out of Kraft
cheese squares for our sandwiches. After lunch...we went on a hike in the woods for berries

with her son and daughter. The mom's stayed inside to watch the babies, and we all had bags to bring our blueberries home in. We saw a fallen tree with lots of berries underneath it...so I ran over to pick them. My little sister was sitting on

top of the broken tree, and then I remember a loud deep noise. I noticed that it seemed darker around me and my new friends were yelling, "Run to the house! Run-Run-Run!!". I felt stinging things crawling all over me-and the next thing I knew...my

little legs were taking me down the hill to the left-and I could see a driveway. I heard someone screaming...and realized it was ME!!!. I saw my mom come out of the friends house with a broom and she grabbed the water-hose. She sprayed me down with cold water...and wrapped me in towel. I looked down on the ground and could see hundreds of hornets laying there dead. The ones in my hair kept stinging me till they died, and my mom had gloves on to pull them off of me. I was shaking, scared and crying. My mom then left me to find my little sister. She had been stung on the lip and her whole face was swollen. My dad came and he took us to the hospital for Benedryl. The nurses told us that my sister was lucky to be alive-she was allergic to bee-stings. (I can remember thinking, "Don't ya' think that I'M LUCKY to have survived being stung by hundreds of bees-and still be alive too??). It was a very traumatic time for a little seven year old and a five year old sister.

*I don't think anyone intentionally steps on a bees-nest.
(But...what did I learn from the whole event?)

-Look carefully at your surroundings when hiking in the woods
-Especially look down where your walking:)
-Animals and insects live in those deep dark woods!
-Bees do not like to be stepped on...just like humans.

Easter Weekend

2010-04-04T21:10:00.006-06:00

We left our youngest son at home with his older brothers...and we loaded up Chabs and Nascar and hit the road. It was time for a little house hunting and alone time with the middle kids!

We decided to take our kids and go up north for "Conference Weekend" (Where we go and see our LDS prophet speak). We also wanted to look around the Salt Lake area for a new home we can move our family to. As soon as school gets out...we are packing up. We found a few good places in the Draper and Sandy area. We stopped for lunch at a buffet and sat with our neighbors-who were visiting for conference weekend too:)

It was super fun talking to them and they took us on a tour of Sandy to show us their relatives homes.

This morning, we met in Salt Lake and we waited in a stand-by line for extra seats to get into the LDS Conference Center. Ben and Linda (our neighbors) stood with us for an hour.

(This is how much shorter I am than Chabs-I'm five foot...She's almost 5' 9")

This is the line ahead of us....

And this is the line behind us!!! It went clear down the walkway.

This is how close we were standing NEXT to the Salt Lake Temple:)

My poor hubby looks so tired because he drove all the way down to get us, then we all drove BACK up north again for this whirl-wind trip. He's probably so happy to climb back into his trailer and SLEEP before he gets back up at five a.m. and goes to work in the morning!

Right before Conference started, a guide came over to let us know-that it was all FULL in the Conference Center and that we needed to quickly find a spot in the Tabernacle. So, we broke out of line and made a reverent dash to this beautiful building. This is where Conference was held originally.

They took down this sign....and we were happy to make it out of the cold and go into:

This awesome building! I was so amazed that I was actually sitting in here.

There were two gigantic screens with the session going on-it was so fabulous. It was really amazing to hear our prophet speak and hear messages from the twelve apostles too.

When it was over at noon-we went outside into the bright sunshine and took pictures of the gardens.

I took a picture of my sweet hubby who was carrying my heels around for me-♥ That's real love!

While I gave my feet a easy walk in my Nike tennies:) *Who likes to run down the street in heels? Not me!

We went over and watched the crowds come out of the Conference Center.I made a video and its so cool how the crowds zig-zag as they leave down the walk way! When I look up from making a video...I saw:

My cousin, Tammy's son-Elder Smith with his companion!!!! I said, "Can I take your pictures Elders?":) Then I told him, "Elder Smith-this one is for your mom...my cousin!"

Our dear friend, Ben, took this picture of us...and you can tell we are cold & tired-but happy to be there!

As we were walking back to our car, we heard hecklers yelling to the crowds, we saw missionaries singing hymns, homeless people were pan-handling, and then there was this group of young people...giving FREE HUGS. It was really cool...and we enjoyed the whole day!!! Hope we can get into the Conference Center this Fall. We'll actually be living up north:) ~How cool is that?~

Over sized Glass Vases

2010-03-20T18:15:00.002-06:00

My hubby went snowmobiling with his buddies today...so I took Starwars and went shopping down south at my favorite decorating store Tai Pan Trading (I LOVE this place!!!♥) I'm pretty sure we are moving soon out of town-so I have to shop carefully. Whatever I buy now-will be extra to pack in the van. But a certain item caught my eye...and always has. These beautiful over sized Demijohns bottles. I found lots of stock pictures here on the internet. People can usually buy them at Pottery Barn-but for a hefty price tag. Mine was $28.

I actually found one similar to the one on the left! It is so cool:) I like the feel of it and the weight.

I love the shape of these ones too. They feel cold and remind me of the ocean weight balls.

I love the creative ways people decorate with them. Of course, some are used on display with corks.

These giant bottles look so good next to a window with the light coming through them.

These lovely bottles just make me smile:) Awesome!!!!

Postcards from Home

2010-03-20T00:23:00.001-06:00

Today, my hubby was in town, and he had a side job to do-so I went along. He is really good friends with a famous local photographer, William Carr and his lovely wife, Victoria. They have a wonderful ranch and run a fantastic photography business. (His postcards are bought and sold around the world). I'm pretty sure you'll recognize his pictures immediately. Really incredible!!

Well, we knocked on their front-door and no one answered. So, we took a stroll over to their gallery:) Way cool place where Mr. Carr creates his photography and frames it. My hubby had to hook up a pipe with an electrical cord...so that the frame saw could run. (There's a lot more that goes into creating a portrait than even I realized!). While my hubby was working on the pipe-I got to check out my water-color that Mr. Carr framed for me. I had a white mat put on and a elegant black frame put around a picture...a water-color that I paid someone to paint in 2004 of my precious babies. (It's taken me THIS long to finally get it done-I know, procrastination is my middle name). I'm super glad now-that I did. This guy only frames the work he usually sells-and I hit the jack pot!

I also got to hear about their new gallery that will be opening up in Vegas soon. I was invited to see their portfolio and see the places they have traveled to around the world. It was so much like looking through a National Geographic Magazine. They use a high definition camera to capture the colors and intense eye catching imagery. I noticed that their work shop is so clean too (you know how some artwork stirs up dust and particles? Not theirs-it was immaculate. Kinda of made me more interested in the business. So, I asked as many questions as I could to understand just how one captures nature's scenes with perfect light and color. What makes his work stand out? I think his patience and artistic eye, are able to notice the things we may take for granite...such as the sunrise and sunsets.

How many people will take a whole day to get up early, drive for hours, return to a perfect spot if there's bad weather, and walk THAT very photo through the costly process of developing, printing, framing and marketing? Not once-but continually. It's the behind the scenes process that gets my questions going. What kind of work is that successful? This kind-for sure.

P.S. There was fire that got out of control last year out in New Harmony-very close to the Carr's ranch. They were so lucky to not have serious damage. Here's a video of how close the blaze came into their area:

Starwars and Kidney Stones

2010-03-12T22:00:00.003-07:00

I've been a bit distracted lately- with my very own kidney stone. I've known for quite a few years that I have a stone on my left side, but this past two weeks...I began to really notice a sharp pain in my right side. So, I had my hubby take me to the ER last Saturday. He was none-too happy about it all too(lovely bedside manner). He was ornery about the cost of stepping foot in the ER, whiny about being around sick people, and just plain grumpy about me being in pain. So, I let him know, that the next time he gets sick (or crashes his four-wheeler), I will NOT be sympathetic to his cause. By the time I actually made it into the backroom of the ER-I had to use the ladies room and I was screaming in pain! The doctors and nurses were wonderful to help me ASAP, and I was given medication to fight the pain (truly an understanding medical staff).

The following Monday, I was sent to see a urologist. He of course, let me know that I was holding onto to a very large stone and I needed surgery this week. I asked exactly what surgery entailed. He explained to me (as I was taken to x-ray again)that I would be given an anesthetic, fall into a deep-deep sleep and then have intensive lithotripsy . The doctors would blast my giant stone into smithereens...so that my poor bladder could handle letting it go. This is exactly what happened yesterday...and now I'm just recovering from the effects.

My kids have been wonderful to help each other, and the neighbors have been so kind to bring dinner to feed us. I was fortunate to have my hubby come back down (from work up north). During the whole craziness, my little five year old, Starwars, has been having his own meltdown.

Starwars' teacher sent home a note yesterday, saying that he has been "acting out" his anger...I found this note (little yellow sticky-pad paper) under his bed. Right before he was to get off the bus from school, I got a phone-call from my friend across town-who use to babysit Starwars after school. She said, "Your son is standing on my doorstep!". I guess Starwars had attempted his own "running away" scene-and made it to her house! He talked his way into catching a ride with a little girl from his class. The "aunt" of the little girl, thought she was doing me a favor-taking him to the babysitters. We were all just a little stunned, on what a smooth talker he was- to skip riding his own bus home. My husband was sent to retrieve the run-away kid and was more than happy to scold him:) I found myself in the position of hugging this child and then putting him on the time-out couch.

The Lord was surely watching out for this little boy and his mother too. We have had quite a roller-coaster ride going on here!! Let's hope next week is a little bit smoother...

For the Strength of Youth

2010-03-04T18:18:00.001-07:00

I am so happy to have our missionary home again!!! Life is good :)

Snow Storm

2010-03-04T10:29:00.000-07:00

We are having a snow storm this morning...this picture is just for you Dolli, my adorable niece (who's a fabulous blogger in Israel).

Gettin' Lazy about Bloggin!

2010-02-26T21:48:00.001-07:00

So, I spend more time on Facebook now- than I do Blogging. I usually write once a week here, posting something fun...but I've been totally wrapped up in crafting, crocheting or cleaning. I even tried doing some baking

-everyday this week-some with my bread machine. I made cinnamon rolls, banana bread, whole wheat bread and rolls, meatball spaghetti, homemade chicken soup and tonight was Alfredo sauce over pasta! My kids are wondering who's coming to visit:) I just smile and say, "YOU-my kiddies!". It's so nice to slow down and only think about my family and friends. I did take some banana bread over to my neighbor. She drove my daughter to school when my car was too cold to drive. It had to thaw out! She came along at just the right moment:)

I also taught myself to make crocheted roses this week too. My Aunt Arlene made me a beautiful afghan-when

I graduated from highschool-(many moons ago). I have always wondered how to follow the pattern. Well, I just saw a video on You-tube, looked closely at my aunt's stitches...and I figured it out! Pretty cool stuff. Now I carry around a bag full of yarn like a little old grandma:) *Good practice for later!

Surprise for the Week

2010-02-14T21:51:00.004-07:00

Tonight, I'm letting you in on a little secret...I was asked to speak in our Ward Relief Society (Homemaking Night) last week. But I thought it was something else...that's me-just not paying real attention to details these days! I really thought I was going to be sitting in a tiny primary class room-drawing on a chalk board.

I got a call from the Relief Society counselor in my ward-last Wednesday. She told me that one of our ward sisters would be moving out of the area-and they now needed someone to teach the class on Affordable Home Decorating. I imagined myself, sitting in a little classroom discussing paint colors and table cloths:) I figured that I was a useful solution to the cause-because I had been a designer in a craft store and just recently worked in a home decorating store also. So, their was NO panic in my voice-and I casually said, "Sure, no problem! I'd love to sit a talk about decorating". The counselor was pleasantly surprised (I could hear the surprise in her voice-"You will??? Oh thank you- thank you!!". I thought...Hmm?...that was odd. No big deal.

The closer the day came (one week later), the more I put on my thinking cap, and began to wonder-what can I share with these sisters on home decorating? So, I began to surf the internet. I found some awesome links to share and some very creative ideas started to form. I began to focus on popular colors, what is all the rage right now for sprucing up a person's home, and how can I save a few dollars on decorating? Because you and I are regular bloggers...I know that if I list a sight to see over the internet...you will just hit the link and *pop*, your in another window looking at some other bloggers ideas-easy lesson to teach. That's the magic of our little world here. Not so easy to explain when I'm standing in front of a room full of ladies-who are NOT regular bloggers. That became my challenge last Wednesday Night. Boy-was I in for a surprise...

I packed all my great ideas in a rubber maid bucket, brushed my teeth-and fluffed my hair. No need to dress-up...I was attending Homemaking. I had worn jeans and t-shirt to tons of these nights before.Then at six thirty last Wednesday night-I climbed in my car-and drove over to my ward chapel. I was greeted by the happy counselor-who had called me. She asked if I needed help getting in the door. I lugged my box up the stairs and thought...that was so sweet of her! She is just the kindest lady ever:) Then, I noticed that she had a dress on...and when we walked into the cultural hall-the tables were all decked out for a Valentines Dinner. It all looked so fancy and there was a buffet dinner waiting. Several sisters asked if I needed anything-they all had dresses on, and were carrying in food to share. I thought to myself, I think I missed the memo on who the main speaker was tonight! Who is coming to speak at this dinner??? As I tried to pick a table to sit at, my mom came over to ask if I was ready for tonight? I looked around and said "Why?"-she pointed out that I WAS the main speaker-and I needed to sit near the podium....WHAT??? That was the moment-that I realized I was suppose to be dressed up- and ready to speak to a "gym room" full of ward sisters. This is pretty much what nightmares are made of-in my little world!

But because I have a certain sense of dignity...I didn't start hyper-ventilating or sweating profusely. My eyes did grow bigger-as I watched the room fill with sisters coming in to eat dinner together. I started counting heads, and then I pointed out that I only had a few hand-outs....and maybe I needed MORE. My wonderful friend/visiting teaching partner, Jane-volunteered to go make more copies in the library. I wondered if she could hear my heart POUNDING away. I wasn't going to pass out from sheer fright-but I was wondering how I would pull the whole night off?? *Everyone already had a small idea that I was not really ready-I was wearing jeans and a t-shirt-and my son's hoodie!!! "AHHHHHHH-get me out of here!!!"-was what I wanted to say, but I thought to myself, "What do I have to lose-or gain? People already know that fashion is not the top of my list during the day. I'm usually thrilled if I have clean clothes that match:)

I was so happy to share my family portraits that we just had done this past week also (My friend, Liz has a blog to show the awesome work she's done). I was able show off the fruit arrangement that I re-created from work. (The one at work sold for a very expensive price)...I made a knock-off for under twenty dollars (the pieces were from the dollar store and the vase was on sale from my job for half off!). I also showed them how Home Depot has stair railings and chair legs-that we can use to make candle stick holders-for way cheap also. I talked about colors and Feng Shui decorating. I asked if anyone was as serious as I was about blogging...and I think I saw one or two hands go up:) So, I shared some great web sites that I love to read-http://thepaintedhome.blogspot.com/ and another favorite spot is...My Re-Purposed Life. I think that these ladies that blog (and share their awesome idea) are just the very best decorators ever!!

So, I survived the whole night because of the above mentioned blogs. My life can go on now... I did it!!!!! (I LOVE BLOGGING!!!!!!♥) *I'll share another little secret with you later on this week...Goodnight!

Final Days in Switzerland

2010-02-09T14:31:00.000-07:00

I know what your thinking! How long can this story go on??? Well, life has kind of gotten in the way lately, and I'm "slower than molasses" on posting...Here comes some more pictures of our fabulous trip to our Elder's mission:

This is Brother and Sister Burbidge in St. Gallen. We had a wonderful lunch with them and learned all about the amazing young adults, that our son had worked with over the last few months. We laughed and talked for several hours and before we left them, we promised to sit with them in church the next day:) We said good-bye and went sight-seeing in the city...

This is a cathedral that our missionary wanted us to visit- in down town St. Gallen. It was so beautiful inside-and so very old that it smelled like mildew and must. The odor was so powerful-I had to step out.

We hopped on the bus and went to the local IKEA store for lunch. It was the only place in town with free refills:) We had Swedish meatballs and pastry was called a princess-cake-and cranberry juice to drink...

The next day, Sunday...we went to the ward that our son had taught in (St. Gallen). The chairs (instead of benches) were set up this way-because they turned them around to face the stage in the back! How ingenious I thought to myself:) I looked up at the lights and this reminded me of "seventies-decor":

We stood at the chapel doors and greeted people coming in...most ward members spoke English. There was one friend we had to meet: Elder Jordan...He was taught baptized by my son and his companion...and Jordan is now the Ward Mission Leader! He is such a golden convert too.

I noticed the wall portraits of the missionaries sent out by this great ward also-cool!!! After church, we went to a ward member's house.

This is Sister Keller and she is a fabulous cook! She continually feeds the missionaries in the ward and was so kind to out son during his mission:) She handed us a big bag of chocolate before we left and we were so amazed with her generosity!! After we left her house-we drove back to Zurich and rode around on the trains:)

It was so much fun! Our missionary was our personal guide and translated all the signs and stops for us.

I was freezing but happy to be touring the city with my son and cute hubby!

We climbed on and off near the train station. You can see how cold it was there-by looking at this frozen water fountain! We tried to spend more time on the trains than off.

I could see that my boys were hungry-so we stopped off and ate at the local Burger King.

This basic meal for three...was over forty American Dollars!!!!!

Then we climbed back on the trains and went to see more historical sights.

This is the train-station

and the Zurich city lights were fantastic!! We loved the midnight tour:)

The next day, Monday-we started packing for the flight home. Elder decided to leave his well worn shoes in hotel trash can:)

We made it to the airport and felt so happy to have our son travel with us finally! *He could barely fit into the airplane seats (being 6' 7")...so they put all three of us in the front emergency row:)

I was soooo tired....and so ready to go home:)

Here's our missionary-back on American soil in...VEGAS baby!:)

Welcome Home my son!!!! Now-I can catch up on HOME life again-yahoo!!!!

Day Three- in Interlaken

2010-02-02T00:25:00.000-07:00

I have procrastinated for way too long- with the details of our trip. So tonight, before I got to sleep...I'm finishing up the story:) We went out and had lunch with a ward member in Interlaken the next day. Before we left, we put our extra food in a little community kitchen down the hall. The mayo and mustard were in tubes (like tooth paste). We had bread, sausage and spreads for eating at night...these are all the pictures of places we drove to see and shop for during our trip. We saw ward members, we went grocery shopping, we looked at coo-coo clocks and Swiss knives. I saw wild flowers in cheese, we found a phone-booth to call the kids back home, and we giggled at the titles of videos and I-Sing games at the mall. I had to take a picture of the children's- "Happy Land" for one of the restaurants (It was so charming).

I was freezing all day-and our missionary wanted us to walk everywhere we went. Our rental car was parked in the grocery store garage-because it's so hard to find parking there. We burned a lot of calories-that's for sure! We were ready to head back to Zurich at the end of the day...

Station Identification

2010-01-27T22:44:00.000-07:00

"We are taking a break for our regularly scheduled program...to bring to you a word from our sponsors":) Just Kidding! (Does anyone remember those words from public television channels? Well, um...I do!!)

So, Merrianne has tagged me in a recipe post game...and I am playing along-because I think I need a break from talking all about Switzerland for awhile!

Here's the Rules of the Game:

Post the cute little picture up there... and link back to Merrianne, or/and me? (maybe both, that way there's a broader recipe exchange going on here).

Post about what you had for dinner along with the recipes you used.

Tag a couple other people to do it too.

One Pan Dandy

This is a recipe I learned from 4-H when I was ten years old. My best friends mom, taught us how to make this...and I made this for Family Home Evening-many years ago. Now I make it for my kids and they are learning how to make it for their kids!

1 lb. hamburger
1 small onion
16 oz. can whole kernel corn, drained
16 oz. can sliced or stewed tomatoes, partially drained
1 cup shredded mild cheddar cheese

Brown hamburger and onion till no pink shows in meat and onion is tender. Add can of corn and can of tomatoes. Cover and simmer 5-10 minutes. Remove lid and add cheese over the top. Put lid on just until cheese begins to melt. Remove from heat and serve. Mmmm! -Delish:)

Our First Day in Switzerland-Pt. 2

2010-01-20T14:40:00.001-07:00

The first night we stayed in Zurich, was a absolute ~~nightmare~~ crazy time!. We had reservations at the Hotel Hottingen-recommended by the mission home. The airport car-rental lady was kind enough to give us

a map and directions to the hotel. Somehow (By the Grace of God), we managed to find this place after midnight in downtown Zurich!! All the signs were strange to us on the roads-since we'd never been out of the U.S. *Elder was in another town...so we were on our own. The hotel locked it's doors at eleven p.m. and we were left to wait out front till morning...in our rental car:) Luckily, the seats

were heated! Three a.m.-we started searching for a restroom, Four a.m.-I was freezing in the backseat, Five a.m. I was so mad that all the hotels were closed and six a.m. I spotted the manager walking in!! I was so happy to meet them. We unloaded, called Elder and ate breakfast:) Bread with Nuttela-MMmmm! Then, we finally got to see our missionary...we had quite a reunion (even if we hadn't slept in two days! What a fantastic moment:) We all later went to the mission home for a testimony meeting and to meet the mission president and his lovely wife. I think our adrenalin kicked in-as we had the most spiritual meeting I've ever been to in my whole life. I was so grateful to be safe, surrounded with love, and enjoying the moments with my handsome hubby and cute son. Pure heaven!

This blue van carried the missionaries luggage down the hill-back to our hotel. The Elders all walked down (we were staying in the same place). This was their last night together and their room was right across from ours! How lucky is that??

Flying to Switzerland

2010-01-14T22:01:00.001-07:00

Plane Trip-PART ONE

I was just telling my friend, Swiss Miss, how much fun my hubby and I had on our trip to pick up our son, Elder from his two year mission in Switzerland. I also mentioned that I needed to post some pictures here and catch up on blogging.The kids have missed us since we left-so I faithfully postponed this essay till tonight. My ~~babies~~ teenagers were so wonderful to hold down the fort and keep Starwars out of trouble till we returned! We spoke everyday and let them talk to their brother each night-I never wondered what was going on at home. It was a huge comfort to call home and know that they were right on schedule.

Our adventure began at three in the morning on December 5th. We had kissed the kids good night before they went to bed on the 4th, and we set the alarm clock. Our bags were packed and we had our clothes ready too. We just ~~hopped~~ hobbled into the van and took off driving to the airport...three and half hours away. Everything went as planned-we parked in the airport parking lot, and checked in our bags at the counter. The plane left on time for New York and I was so happy to be on our way to Zurich.

From Vegas to New York-we were starving!!! My hubby thought they would be feeding us lunch, so we didn't bring any food with us. Nope-only drinks and more drinks were available. As soon as we landed in N.Y. we had to stop in a food court at the airport to eat. Then I made sure we had some snacks for later.

The flight to London was fun for the first four hours. We ate dinner, watched movies, listened to music and visited with others around us-(clear in the next to back row). It started getting dark and people wanted to sleep or...go the restroom (right next to our seats). The rest of the time was annoying-I was cramped, tired, holding my breath, and wishing that I could fall asleep. When we started to land, my ears started to ache...and I kept chewing my gum faster and faster (very painful pressure). I was sooo glad when we got off the plane, and I could stop worrying about whether we would crash in the Trans-Atlantic Ocean... or need oxygen from the horrible bathroom fumes. Hallelujah-we made it to solid ground!!

My sister lives in London, so I figured I'd have plenty of time to give her a call (and boy! -did I have time!). We thought we'd be leaving after about four hours, but there had been a snow storm right before we landed, and the whole airport was on standby. Our flight kept getting delayed and we watched as all the Germany flights were canceled. We walked around, called my sister, ate some snacks, found a computer to facebook on (Thank you- Zurich Insurance Co.) We were there for TWELVE hours. My sister wanted to come see us at the airport-but didn't dare go out on black ice. There were so many accidents we could see on the big screen t.v.s-we just felt glad we were safe inside. The whole flight was called to a little room to board the plane, but then because it was suddenly snowing again-we had to sit longer. So, we

waited and waited. The after an enormous amount of time-we climbed on-board....and waited a few more hours. The plane needed to be "de-iced"...with a special spray solution...coming from another city. We could not believe they had packed us a plane to sit for four more hours. The only entertainment was watching and listening to a Swiss native flight attendant. She was a young, blond, with an adorable accent. We listened to her speak Swiss German as she passed out cookies and chocolate...and she called the soda-Coke..."Cokie":) Sounded like Cookie almost. Wish I could of snapped a picture of this cute girl. All the old men were flirt-ing up a storm!

On Our Way...

2010-01-04T22:24:00.001-07:00

Christmas Eve 2009

2009-12-24T20:06:00.001-07:00

How excited our my little babies for Santa to visit them?! *VERY EXCITED-AHHHH!!!

Fun Times @ Work

2009-12-22T20:58:00.001-07:00

I had an exciting day at work with my dear friends:0) The first picture is of an apron handmade with love (from the owner's mother). The last picture was a shot of our "lunchroom"...an old bank safe filled with figurine boxes. *Really a closet-but it's away from the crowds (sort of). My good friends all huddle in there for ten minutes, then it's back to the floor!

Sixteen and Dating

2009-12-22T01:04:00.000-07:00

Nascar is quite the popular guy around our neighborhood:) He's dating so much now that we have to insist he brings his friends home to hang-out every once in awhile!

*What a cutie-just like his dad!!!

Jesus is Watching You

2009-12-17T22:50:00.000-07:00

A burglar broke into a house one night. He shined his flashlight around, looking for valuables when a voice in the dark said,

'Jesus knows you're here.'

He nearly jumped out of his skin, clicked his flashlight off, and froze.

When he heard nothing more , after a bit, he shook his head and continued.

Just as he pulled the stereo out so he could disconnect the wires, clear as a bell he heard

'Jesus is watching you.'

Freaked out, he shined his light around frantically, looking for the source of the voice.

Finally, in the corner of the room, his flashlight beam came to rest on a parrot.

'Did you say that?' he hissed at the parrot.

'Yep', the parrot confessed, then squawked, 'I'm just trying to warn you that he is watching you.'

The burglar relaxed. 'Warn me, huh? Who in the world are you?'

'Moses,' replied the bird.

'Moses?' the burglar laughed. 'What kind of people would name a bird Moses?'

'The kind of people that would name a Rottweiler Jesus.'

Christmas Photo Session

2009-12-03T19:25:00.000-07:00

What happens when I try and take a Christmas portrait of my last three kids? Well, I tried...Merry Christmas!

Are You Ready for Children?

2009-11-30T21:46:00.000-07:00

Are You Ready for Children?

Mess Test: Smear peanut butter on the sofa and curtains. Now rub your hands in the wet flowerbed and rub on the walls. Cover the stains with crayons. Place a fish stick behind the couch and leave it there all summer.

Toy Test: Obtain a 55-gallon box of Lego's. (If Lego's are not available, you may substitute roofing tacks or broken bottles.) Have a friend spread them all over the house. Put on a blindfold. Try to walk to the bathroom or kitchen. Do not scream. (This could wake a child at night.)

Grocery Store Test: Borrow one or two small animals (goats are best) and take them with you as you shop at the grocery store. Always keep them in sight and pay for anything they eat or damage.

Dressing Test: Obtain one large, unhappy, live octopus. Stuff into a small net bag making sure that all arms stay inside.

Feeding Test: Obtain a large plastic milk jug. Fill halfway with water. Suspend from the ceiling with a stout cord. Start the jug swinging. Try to insert spoonfuls of soggy cereal (such as Fruit Loops or Cheerios) into the mouth of the jug, while pretending to be an airplane. Now dump the contents of the jug on the floor.

Night Test: Prepare by obtaining a small cloth bag and fill it with 8 - 12 pounds of sand. Soak it thoroughly in water. At 8:00 PM begin to waltz and hum with the bag until 9:00 PM. Lay down your bag and set your alarm for 10:00 PM. Get up, pick up your bag, and sing every song you have ever heard. Make up about a dozen more and sing these too until 4:00 AM. Set alarm for 5:00 AM. Get up and make breakfast. Keep this up for 5 years. Look cheerful.

Physical Test (Women): Obtain a large beanbag chair and attach it to the front of your clothes. Leave it there for 9 months. Now remove 10 of the beans.

Physical Test (Men): Go to the nearest drug store. Set your wallet on the counter. Ask the clerk to help himself. Now proceed to the nearest food store. Go to the head office and arrange for your paycheck to be directly deposited to the store. Purchase a newspaper. Go home and read it quietly for the last time.

Final Assignment: Find a couple who already has a small child. Lecture them on how they can improve their discipline, patience, tolerance, toilet training, and child's table manners. Suggest many ways they can improve. Emphasize to them that they should never allow their children to run riot. Enjoy this experience. It will be the last time you will have all the answers.

Listening to the Spirit

2009-11-29T01:26:00.006-07:00

Today, I had to go into work. Almost everyday (except Sunday) I go in to Comforts and help open the store for the day. As I enter the store, I usually grab my name-tag

off the fridge in the back. There's a magnet on the back to hold it on to my apron that I wear through out the day. I'm now, pretty use to the thought of losing this name-tag... as I turn on twenty different Christmas trees (that we've had up since the end of September). The magnet on the back falls off first and then the tag sometimes grabs onto something metal. I find it on metal buckets, metal table legs, picture frames, and even the tree stems. Lately though, I've been frustrated in finding this silly tag! I'll think to myself that it's kind of nice not wondering if someone knows my name. If I make a mistake...I don't have to worry that my name will make it's way back to my boss!:)

Today though, after I lost the name tag for the millionth time...I wondered if maybe I prayed about finding the little trouble maker...I'd have some better chance of finding it faster. Every other time that I have asked for divine help in searching...I seriously walk right to the spot that I have lost the item. It never fails.

There were tons of people shopping today, and I felt I better just say a silent prayer that I'd be guided to the exact spot that I lost my tag-without being noticed or trampled. I re-traced my step, said a prayer in my heart, and waited for the little feeling to take me along. The next thing that happened was I heard a voice say, "Look in your coat pocket". It was cold in the store-so I had left my jacket on...and had kept my zipper up. My first thought was to doubt that the tag could possibly have fallen into the side pocket! So, I hesitated. Then I had another strong feeling to put my hand in the pocket-...so I did this time. My name-tag WAS in my coat pocket!!! I laughed as pulled it out, and then I stared at this crazy piece of metal and plastic. I have no idea how it could of slipped off my apron and fallen into my jacket pocket...but I do know that I was guided by another being to find this tag and wear it again. I have no doubt that my life and actions are my own, and that I can ask for help- if I just have faith. All I have to do is ask first. I may not get the answer that makes sense or hands me exactly what I think I need. But, if there's a sincere question in my life, I can be guided and given direction and help from above. I believe that our Heavenly Father wants to help us. We just need to ask for that help.

My daughter

2009-11-17T18:29:00.004-07:00

"Mabs" is my only daughter. She is in Young Womens and loves it. She really loves to babysit. That is what she does all the time! She is in the seventh grade and has great grades! I really love this girl! She made my new banner up above.:) She is crazy girl and loves to laugh. I am going to post some pictures.

These amazing pictures were taken by Liz Marshall.

Awesome!

This is Morgan, "Mabs" best friend!

The End

Turn Your Hearts

2009-11-16T23:37:00.000-07:00

On my mom's birthday last month, our Ward Relief Society gave a dinner and introduced us to a wonderful woman, Sister Gracia Jones, who is the descendant of Emma Smith. She brought her pictures and stories of her life. Amazing evening:)

I was asked to decorate a table for eight of the sisters in our ward to sit at. I was so surprised to find a picture of the table on the Ward R.S. blog! Cool-I had used a paper table cloth and all paper/plastic for the settings. I used my mom's family homestead pictures of her growing up in Alaska, since it was her birthday:) She was surprised and happy to have them sing Happy Birthday also! She said the best part was being able to get up from the table and not go wash dishes-*Toss those plates ladies!* (YES!!)

Hello Dolly!

Insomia vs. Insanity

Trust in Christ

Happy Thanksgiving!

Lifestyle Change

August Happenings...

July News

Wedding Day-June 23, 2011

Count Down

Playing for Change

Woofums

Cell phone Summer

Busy Times...

Oquirrh Mountain Temple

Sunday RS Lesson

Let the Holy Spirit Guide...

Random Thoughts

Engagement Announcement

New Flower Business

February News...all about LOVE!

Gifts of the Spirit

Open Any Door

January News

New Year-New Post

Good Fortune Cookies!

Headband Giveaway!

Silent Monks Singing Halleluia

Twenty Secrets

Christmas Newsletter 2010

So NOT True...but funny!

Thanksgiving Evening

Thanksgiving Day Morning

In the Spirit of Thanksgiving

What happens when we die?

As Sisters in Zion

Life...

Holiday Decorating

All that JAZZ

Shadow Box

Family Night Dessert

My Top Favorite Past-Times

Nie Nie Dialoges

Flower Photo

Decorating on a Dime

B-days*Brakes*Fires &* Bees

Fresh Strawberry Pie-♥

Two Meals in One

Fall Schedule 2010

Sweet Escape

Starwars Loves School

First Day of School in SLC

Eagle Scout

Words to Live By

Strong Spirits

Family Means Everything...

Karate Kid

Summer Fun

Happy Fourth of July

Dinosaur Day

Our New Home

Surrounded

Marital Bliss

William and Victoria Carr

Starwars and Nascar Night

Nascar's Reply

Will You Go to Prom With Me?

LOve-Shakes You Down!♥

I Survived

Easter Weekend

Over sized Glass Vases

Postcards from Home

Starwars and Kidney Stones

For the Strength of Youth

Snow Storm

Gettin' Lazy about Bloggin!

Surprise for the Week

Final Days in Switzerland

Day Three- in Interlaken

Station Identification

Our First Day in Switzerland-Pt. 2

B-daysBrakesFires &* Bees